NIA SMITH'S NEW ERA OF SOUL

Nia Smith’s aspirations for musical stardom have long been a tightly held dream of the 21-year-old singer from Brixton. Brought up on a blend of classic soul, dub reggae and UK garage, Nia’s musical environment cultivated an appreciation that quickly took hold of her at her core. Further spurred on by the big voices she grew up listening to, the up-and-coming artist has been propelled by her ambition, daring herself to reach the heights of the greats that she holds with such high regard.

Releasing her first full project towards the end of 2024, Give Up The Fear, is a resounding statement of her artistic intent. Centred around her impeccable vocals, the EP showcases’ Nia’s talents and ability to pivot across genre, deftly moving from heartfelt soul tracks to reggae-infused anthems, capturing the essence of a new era of modern soul music. As an artist at the beginning of her career, it’s clear that Nia’s passion and drive is going to keep her moving up and up.

Sitting down with Nia Smith following her performance at the END. x adidas ‘Tying the Knot’ celebration last week, we chatted about her musical inspirations, her debut project and how to remain in the moment.

What originally led you to music pursuing music as a career? Had you always been interested in music from a young age?

I honestly can’t remember a period in my life without music! I first got introduced through my Dad's iPod and there was some good stuff on there! 

Was there a specific kind of music that resonated with you as you were growing up?

Soul! I got fed all that good stuff. 

Many people have this ambition of becoming a popstar or a musical icon in their teenage years, which was something you’ve commented on having yourself in the past. When did you first have this ambition?

Yes, it's something I’ve commented on before [laughs]. I was 14 when I said yeah, I’m gonna make this music thing a reality and by 19 I wanted it to be true. Very unrealistic but gave me drive. Plus, you had Billie [Eilish] at the time killing it.  

You dropped your debut project “Give Up the Fear” to much acclaim back in November 2024 and followed it up with an extended version last month. How has the experience of releasing your first collection of songs been? What led to the decision to release the extended EP with alternate versions? 

 It’s been so good releasing music! A piece of myself out in the world. I didn’t want the moment to end so I knew I wanted to add more, and I had been singing ex factor live in my set so only felt right to add such a classic cover in the deluxe. 

You’ve mentioned in the past that you specifically like being on stage – what is it about performing that you find so enjoyable? 

I get to see real reactions to music and how it can move people in the moment. You can’t fake or recreate live moments and that’s what I love about it. You just have to be there.

Your music blends influence from a variety of different genres, from soul and R&B to reggae. Who are some of the artists that have directly inspired you?

Bob Marley, Chronixx, Lauryn Hill & Amy Winehouse, all timeless and insanely talented artists. 

You’ve spoken on your authentic musical connections and how this form of creativity is essential to you. Was it important for your music and musical partnerships to form in a natural way, with friends, rather than in a big studio with session musicians?

100%. It just feels real that way, you know? Making music with people who get you, who you actually vibe with, that’s when the best stuff happens, no forced energy.

As well as working with a close-knit group of musicians, you’ve performed with a collaborated with a host of big stars already, from SZA and Tems to Popcaan. What have you learnt from these experiences? 

I’ve learnt that anything is possible! All glory to God.  

Speaking on TikTok fame and the lasting impact that can have, for better or for worse, you lamented the disconnect between the audience and the performer and the impact that it can have on your songwriting process. How have you dealt with this and what advice would you give to a young artist who is just starting out?

One piece of advice I’d give is to keep it moving online and in real life. They go hand in hand, be present with both.

What’s on the horizon for Nia Smith?

New music! New music! New music! And more shows, so stay tuned!