Renowned for her soulful voice and poignant lyricism, Jorja has made significant waves in the music industry since her debut "Blue Lights.”
Jorja Smith is a British singer-songwriter born on June 11, 1997, in Walsall, West Midlands, England. Renowned for her soulful voice and poignant lyricism, Jorja has made significant waves in the music industry since her debut "Blue Lights.” This early work set the tone for her music, characterised by its emotional depth and social consciousness. Her debut extended play (EP), "Project 11," released in late 2016, showcased her versatility and storytelling prowess.
Of the many British voices in music today, Jorja is among the most commanding, writing at a pitch of intensity and urgency that few can match. In 2018, her debut studio album "Lost & Found" solidified her status as a rising star. The album, which includes hits like "Teenage Fantasy" and "Where Did I Go?," received critical acclaim for its maturity and cohesive sound. It was nominated for the prestigious Mercury Prize and earned her the Brit Critics' Choice Award.
Jorja's collaborations further highlight her versatility. She lent her voice to Kali Uchis' sultry track "Tyrant," blending their unique styles seamlessly. Her collaboration with Stormzy on "Let Me Down" showcased her ability to create emotive and powerful ballads. Additionally, she worked alongside Kendrick Lamar on the "Black Panther" soundtrack and Burna Boy on "Gum Body," bringing her soulful touch to their distinctive sounds. More recently, she teamed up with Drake on "Get It Together" and Childish Gambino on "Feels Like Summer," proving her ability to adapt and thrive in diverse musical landscapes.
In 2023, Jorja released her second album, "Falling or Flying." A sonically vast record – sometimes sleek and shiny R&B, elsewhere intense and raw alternative – but above all, a record which found Jorja stepping into a new chapter; acknowledging the ever-whirring cogs of her brain but also moving through it, in turn growing and learning to love and respect herself. After its release in September 2023, the album quickly became one of the most critically acclaimed records of that year, subsequently earning Jorja a BRIT Nomination within the ‘Best R&B’ category at the 2024 ceremony.
Over the last few years, it’s been a reflective and transformative transition into her mid-twenties for her. She’s been able to step into herself and evolve as a songwriter and a woman despite an ever-changing musical landscape.
Jorja Smith is reminding herself (and us) that whether things are up or down, she’s very much in control. In fact, as she grows and holds herself, she’s fully thriving.
