Luton singer-songwriter Myles Smith has followed in the footsteps of Adele, Sam Smith, and Florence + The Machine by being nominated for the BRIT Awards Rising Star, a recognition that cements his journey from local open mic nights to the global stage.
The 26-year-old expressed his gratitude for the nomination for next year’s awards, calling it “a reflection of the journey – the highs, the challenges, and the incredible people who’ve supported me along the way.”
Growing up in Luton, Smith picked up his first guitar at age nine, a gift from his mum. By 12, he was performing at pubs and Irish bars across the town, using music as a way to connect with others. “Music quickly became my way of understanding the world and connecting with others,” he shared.
Smith first captured international attention on TikTok, where his heartfelt covers of songs like ‘Sweater Weather’ by The Neighbourhood went viral. His original works soon followed, with tracks such as ‘Solo’ and ‘My Home’ earning critical acclaim and landing him a deal with RCA Records in 2023.
This year, Smith’s hit single ‘Stargazing’ became a global sensation, earning platinum certification and over 550 million streams on Spotify alone. His debut album, ‘You Promised A Lifetime’, paired soaring folk-pop melodies with raw, introspective lyrics, solidifying his reputation as one of Britain’s most compelling new artists.
Smith also made his festival debut on home soil this summer when Luton’s Stockwood Park hosted Radio 1’s Big Weekend, but he went on to play Glastonbury, has just finished a sold-out north American tour and was, earlier this month, named as BBC’s Artist of the Year. And next year, he will support his hero Ed Sheeran on his European tour as well more dates in the UK and north America.
Reflecting on his Luton roots, Smith’s music often carries themes of community and connection. “Growing up playing in pubs and open mic nights shaped me. Music has always been a way to bring people together,” he told The BRITs website.
The winner of the award will be announced on December 5 during BBC Radio 1’s New Music Show with Jack Saunders.
