Jorja Smith’s path to her third studio albumWhat Are the Oddsbegan in an unlikely setting—a somber wake in a quiet, leafy corner of south-west London. The 29-year-old singer, who has become one of Britain’s most recognizable musical voices, admits that the atmosphere was hardly the place to discuss a record built for 2am raves and sun-drenched block parties. Despite the setting, Smith remains characteristically candid, even joking about the long wait for a drink during our meeting.
Released this weekWhat Are the Oddsmarks a distinct shift for the artist. While her previous work, such as her 2016 breakout singleBlue Lightsleaned into introspective, soulful R&B, this new project is a high-energy collection of Black British dance music. Produced alongside Richard Isong—known as P2J, who has worked with Beyoncé, Burna Boy, and Tems—the album weaves together elements of UK garage and funky house. The collaboration features contributions from artists like Wizkid and Devlin, creating a soundscape Smith describes as something she simply loves to dance to.
The creative process for this record was spontaneous. After the success of the club-ready singleLittle ThingsSmith and P2J initially intended to produce a short EP. However, the momentum was undeniable. According to Smith, they completed nine songs in just the first two days, prompting her to tell her label that the project had evolved into a full-length album. She hopes the record serves as a testament to her roots, proving that significant achievements can emerge from her hometown of Walsall.
Despite the upbeat nature of the music, the album retains Smith’s signature emotional depth. Tracks likeFor Lifeaddress the pain of losing a friend to addiction, whileYoung Heartserves as a reflective letter to her younger self. This balance is crucial for Smith, who has spent years navigating the pressures of an unconventional career. Since her teenage years, when she began uploading covers to YouTube from her bedroom in Walsall, she has been thrust into a global spotlight that she never actively sought.
The singer admits that fame has often felt overwhelming. After being recognized by the Brits, the Grammys, and high-profile collaborators like Drake, she found herself exhausted. This fatigue was compounded by the intense scrutiny of the internet. In the lead-up to her 2023 albumFalling Or FlyingSmith became the target of persistent, unsolicited commentary regarding her appearance. She recalls how phrases like “Jorja Smith weight gain” trended on X, a period she describes as deeply disorienting.
The irony of this period was that the public narrative was entirely disconnected from her reality. While strangers were dissecting her body online, Smith says she was actually feeling healthier than ever. She had begun eating properly and maintaining a consistent fitness routine, a stark contrast to her earlier, more chaotic lifestyle. Seeing her body treated as a public spectacle, however, caused her to withdraw, leading her to avoid photoshoots and even public outings for fear of being photographed.
Reflecting on those moments, Smith acknowledges that the negativity occasionally impacted her confidence. She recalls one instance where she felt compelled to reply to a blog that had posted a “before and after” comparison of her, pointing out that one of the photos was taken when she was only 18. Today, she maintains a healthier distance from the digital world, having stopped managing her own social media accounts to protect her peace. She notes that her mother often reminds her to focus on the music, joking that at least the critics aren’t attacking her vocal talent.
As she moves forward, Smith is finding new ways to channel her energy. She has signed up for the London marathon next year, seeking a new goal that keeps her active and engaged. She emphasizes the importance of balance, noting that she refuses to turn down every opportunity out of fear, as she wants to ensure she has stories of fun and experience as she grows older. Jorja Smith is scheduled to perform at the Walsall Arena on September 6. The report also notes that sweltering July afternoon, and I have accidentally found myself at a wake with Jorja Smith, i t is a sticky. The report also notes that in the leafiest part of leafy south-west London, is usually a safe bet for an inconspicuous table, i’m told that the pub where we have met. The report also notes that but today, sweaty black suits carrying pints drift between tables, and long queues snake round the bar. The report also notes that bare-faced with her hair scraped back, Smith is waiting for me when I arrive, dressed in a simple tank top. The report also notes that “But I feel bad saying anything because, you know …”. The report also notes that the sombre mood doesn’t last long – in large part because Smith is effortlessly funny. The report also notes that she takes one sip, pauses for the waitress to disappear, then winces theatrically, when her alcohol-free sparkling wine finally arrives. The report also notes that “That’s not good.” Every time we dissolve into laughter, I glance around guiltily, like we’re schoolgirls trying not to get caught talking at the back of assembly.