Myles Smith, the rising star of British music, is poised to unveil his debut album, *My Mess, My Heart, My Life*, albeit with a slight delay. Just a day before our conversation, he took to Instagram to announce that the album’s release would be postponed by a week. His candid rationale is refreshingly relatable; after years of relentless touring and a whirlwind career, he felt on the brink of exhaustion and recognised the need to pause and truly savour this moment—a culmination of years of hard work. This sentiment resonates deeply with the themes found within his debut, which draws heavily from five years of therapy notes and personal experiences.
A Journey of Self-Reflection
At just 28 years old, Smith has quickly established himself as one of the UK’s most exciting new talents. Hailing from Luton, he seamlessly fuses folk-infused pop with anthemic melodies, crafting emotionally resonant songs that have captured the hearts of many. His breakout single, “Stargazing,” released in 2024, is a poignant plea for connection and became the best-selling British song of the year. In a matter of years, Smith has not only earned the prestigious Brit Award for Rising Star but also secured a spot on the influential Time 100 list, amassing billions of streams along the way.
Despite these remarkable accolades, Smith’s debut album shifts the focus away from commercial success. Instead, it serves as a vehicle for him to delve into the complexities of his pre-fame life, addressing the struggles that have shaped him into the artist he is today. “It was fun. It was intriguing. It was cathartic,” he reflects on the creative process, which allowed him to transform his past challenges into a cohesive body of work.
Tackling Tough Topics
One of the standout tracks on the album, “Sertraline,” named after the widely prescribed antidepressant, dives deep into the intertwined issues of mental health and masculinity. Smith approaches this sensitive topic with sincerity, emphasising the importance of vulnerability in his role as a British artist, particularly as a black male in the music industry. “It’s really important for me to be open about my own experiences,” he asserts, highlighting the need to challenge societal norms and encourage dialogue around mental health.
Growing up, Smith found inspiration in artists like Labrinth, who he views as a trailblazer for men of colour in the music scene, unafraid to express their emotions. Yet, he remains cautious about being positioned as an exception. “I don’t like to be seen as exceptional,” he states, instead hoping to showcase the vast array of talent within his culture. “If anything, I hope to create more pathways for others like me.”
The Personal Meets the Professional
While Smith’s music often reflects his emotional landscape, he admits that not every song is meant for public consumption. His track “Grandma’s Place” is a particularly intimate reflection on family, childhood, and loss—a song so personal that he initially doubted its place on the album. “Sometimes I write songs that are purely for me,” he confides, “but this one felt super right.”
The album’s creation was a collaborative effort, pieced together over three years in various settings, from hotel rooms to tour buses. Smith credits a close circle of collaborators for their support, including producer Peter Fenn and songwriter Gabe Simon, who co-wrote “Grandma’s Place.” “I only feel free and open when I’m with my friends,” he explains, underscoring the importance of community in his creative process.
Among his friends is Niall Horan, who features as the sole guest artist on the album in the track “Drive Safe.” Smith appreciates that their friendship transcends the music industry, focusing instead on genuine connection. “With Niall and Ed [Sheeran], the conversations are never really about work,” he says, valuing the balance of personal and professional life.
A Hopeful Outlook
While *My Mess, My Heart, My Life* looks back on Smith’s journey, it does not dwell in the past. The latter half of the album pivots towards a more hopeful narrative. Tracks like “Nice To Meet You,” “Gold,” and “Stay (If You Wanna Dance)” encapsulate a sense of optimism and the importance of living in the moment. “It was essential to end the album on a high note,” Smith explains, mirroring the emotional trajectory of his live performances, which aim to leave audiences feeling uplifted.
The closing track, “Gold,” embodies this sense of hope. “Even though I may appear miserable for a lot of this album, I genuinely always walk with hope and joy at the end of the day,” Smith affirms, reminding listeners that even amidst struggles, positivity can prevail.
Why it Matters
Myles Smith’s debut album is more than just a collection of songs; it is a testament to the power of vulnerability and authenticity in art. By openly addressing mental health, personal struggles, and the complexities of his identity, Smith is not only carving a niche for himself in the music industry but also paving the way for others to do the same. In a world where emotional honesty is often sidelined, his work serves as a beacon of hope and connection, encouraging listeners to embrace their own stories and find strength in their journeys. Smith’s rise is not simply about personal achievement; it is about creating a more inclusive space for all voices to be heard and celebrated.
