Few 21-year-olds can count musical legends Elton John and Dave Stewart as friends, let alone mentors, yet Tom A Smith continues to forge a career with a wisdom far beyond his years. Making the transition from child performer to musical wonderkid, Tom now sits firmly among the UK’s artists to watch. Freshly signed to Fiction Records, he spoke to Jill Drummond about his career, influences, and his upcoming tour, including a sold-out date at The Cluny.
Congratulations on the success of your latest EP, ‘Say What You Want’ – your first physical release sold out immediately. How does it feel to sell physical copies in a predominantly digital world?
It’s a nice surprise how well it’s been received. I’ve always loved vinyl; I bought my first record from Pop Recs as a kid, and it’s such a cool feeling to hold your own record. It’s a proud moment for myself and my family! So next time, we’ll get more pressed now we know the demand is there.
I saw you perform with Catfish & The Bottlemen when you were 10. How important has the support of other musicians been for you as a young artist?
I’ve been so fortunate to have support from incredible artists who backed me from a young age, such as James Bay, Shed Seven and The Charlatans. You observe how they conduct themselves and witness what goes into performing. It’s a privilege to learn how to nurture young, aspiring musicians so I can pass that on. I remember how exciting and endearing it was to have their support – you expect in a competitive music scene that you’d be out there on your own, but you’re not.
How did your friendship with Dave Stewart come about? You’re set to play him in his upcoming biopic.
Dave messaged to ask if I would play him in the film he’s written about his life; he knew me from my music and wanted someone with an authentic accent. I’m new to acting and we haven’t started filming yet, but he’s been amazing and given me fantastic advice. It was awesome to bring him on stage to perform with us at The Fire Station last year, and the crowd’s reaction was incredible.
From seeing your most recent shows, there’s a noticeable shift in your stage presence. what has driven this direction?
I’ve found a more authentic, natural approach to creating music now, and it’s great to know that comes across on stage. The more out of my comfort zone I find myself, the more engagement it gets and the more I enjoy it. Fiction Records’ backing has given me the confidence to find my direction as an artist so that it’s not a linear journey. With the diversity of my fanbase, it’s so wholesome to see all ages at our shows, and each track, from ‘Say What You Want’ to older material, seems to appeal differently to the crowd. The band has a great chemistry, and it really shows in our performances.
How does it feel to be part of Sunderland as a Music City?
You and I both know it’s always been a music city, so it’s phenomenal to see so many iconic venues, with great musicians running them, bringing such a vibrant culture to the area. I’m proud to be from here and to see the city thriving generally. Hearing my music played at the match gives me goosebumps!
What does it mean to you to play The Cluny?
I played my first ever gig there at eight years old, so to come full circle and sell it out makes me really proud and so excited. It’s surreal to see how far things have come, and I can’t wait to share ‘Say What You Want’ live with everyone there.”
You can listen to Tom’s latest EP now on all major streaming platforms.
