Myles Smith, a 26-year-old rising British pop star, has taken fourth place in the prestigious BBC Radio 1’s Sound of 2025 competition, which includes former winners Lady Gaga, Adele, Lewis Capaldi, and Dua Lipa. Born to a working-class British-Jamaican family in Luton, Smith began his musical career by writing his own songs and performing at open mic nights where he covered artists like Ed Sheeran and Marcus Mumford before settling on his distinctive folk-pop style.
Last year, Smith made a splash on the music scene with his first major hit, “Stargazing,” a feel-good foot-stomper that was the UK’s biggest-selling single in 2024 and was even featured on Barack Obama’s year-end playlist. He continued to build his audience organically, gigging constantly while posting on social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube. He believes TikTok is a “meritocratic system” that rewards effort and dedication. Smith calls it a place where he can establish a community and a place where his music belongs.
His unique talent for songwriting was further recognized just this month, as he was chosen to receive the Brit Awards’ Rising Star prize. In a typical Myles-Smith display of modesty, he says he learned about the honor while coping with a ferocious hangover, which was appropriately cured by the announcement. The young artist has produced songs that are both affecting and inspiring. It’s easy to understand why fans have said his music “saved their lives.” Myles responded to such claims in a recent post, assuring listeners that it was they who ultimately carried themselves forward, with his songs only there to walk beside them.
Smith is currently writing a debut album and juggling writing sessions with a hectic touring schedule that will see him play 36 shows in 60 days across sixteen countries. With his career skyrocketing, Smith remains humble. Though his life may have changed considerably since his early gig at Luton’s open mic nights, he maintains an impressive focus on his art and an enviable connection with his fans, who never failed to come through with cookies.
One act from the BBC Sound of 2025 top five will be announced on Radio 1 and BBC News every day this week, culminating with the winner on Friday
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