Jorja Alice Smith was born in 1997 in Walsall, West Midlands, England. Raised by a Jamaican father and English mother, she showed musical promise early, learning piano from age 8, studying classical singing, and attending Aldridge School on a music scholarship. By her mid-teens, she was posting covers online, which led to attention from producers, and after finishing school, she moved to London to further her music career.
Her first single, “Blue Lights,” came out in 2016 and immediately marked her as someone with something to say. The track blended thoughtful lyricism with atmospheric production, and it captured public attention. She followed up with further releases, independent EPs, and collaborations, building a reputation for maturity in both voice and content. Her debut album, “Lost & Found,” was released in 2018, receiving wide critical praise and reaching number three on the UK Albums Chart. It established her as more than just a promising newcomer.
Smith has won notable awards and gathered several nominations. She won the Brit Critics’ Choice Award in 2018, and in 2019 was awarded Best British Female Solo Artist at the Brit Awards. She’s also been nominated for a Grammy Award for Best New Artist. Other honours include recognition for her singles and videos, including awards related to her powerful song “Blue Lights,” and nominations across MOBOs, Ivor Novello Awards, and others. Her second album, “Falling or Flying,” came out in 2023, continuing to show growth both lyrically and musically.
On stage, Jorja Smith is known for her emotive delivery, strong vocal control, and ability to connect with audiences. Her live performances are versatile: she can deliver stripped-back soulful songs just as effectively as more upbeat tracks. Her music often explores social themes, relationships, identity and vulnerability, making her a compelling artist for festival lineups, headline shows, and special events. With a growing catalogue of hit songs, awards, and a loyal fanbase, she remains one of the most important voices in British R&B and soul today.
