Sam Smith has become one of the most distinctive voices in contemporary music, captivating audiences worldwide with their powerful vocals and emotionally resonant songwriting. Since bursting onto the scene in 2012, the English singer-songwriter has delivered countless memorable tracks that have topped charts and touched hearts across the globe. Their ability to convey raw emotion through music has earned them multiple Grammy Awards, an Oscar, and a devoted fanbase that spans generations. From heart-wrenching ballads about lost love to uplifting anthems of self-discovery, Sam Smith’s discography represents some of the finest vocal performances and songwriting of the past decade. This comprehensive guide explores the twenty best Sam Smith songs that have defined their career and left an indelible mark on the music industry.
Stay With Me
“Stay With Me” stands as one of Sam Smith’s most iconic and emotionally devastating tracks, released in 2014 from their debut album “In the Lonely Hour.” The gospel-infused ballad showcases Smith’s vulnerable vocals as they plead for companionship after a one-night stand, capturing the universal fear of loneliness with stunning clarity. The song’s stripped-down production, featuring piano and backing choir, allows Smith’s voice to take center stage, delivering one of the most memorable vocal performances in modern pop music. This track earned Smith two Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year and Song of the Year, cementing their status as a major force in the industry. The raw honesty in lyrics about seeking temporary comfort rather than lasting love resonated with millions of listeners who recognized their own experiences in Smith’s words.
I’m Not the Only One
Released as the third single from “In the Lonely Hour,” “I’m Not the Only One” explores the painful realization of infidelity in a relationship with sophisticated musical arrangement and mature storytelling. Smith’s voice carries a mixture of hurt and accusation as they confront a cheating partner, delivering each line with controlled emotion that makes the betrayal feel visceral and real. The song’s production features elegant piano work and subtle string arrangements that build throughout, supporting the narrative arc from discovery to confrontation. The accompanying music video, starring Dianna Agron and Chris Messina, became a viral sensation and added another layer of storytelling to the already powerful lyrics. This track demonstrated Smith’s ability to craft narratives that extend beyond simple heartbreak into more complex emotional territory.
Too Good at Goodbyes
“Too Good at Goodbyes” marked Sam Smith’s triumphant return to music in 2017 after a brief hiatus, showcasing a more mature and self-aware artist who had learned from past pain. The song explores the concept of emotional self-protection, with Smith describing how repeated heartbreak has made them skilled at leaving relationships before getting hurt again. The production incorporates more contemporary R&B influences while maintaining the emotional vulnerability that defines Smith’s best work, with a chorus that builds to a powerful vocal climax. This track topped charts in multiple countries and proved that Smith’s appeal had not diminished during their time away from the spotlight. The song’s themes of emotional guardedness and fear of intimacy struck a chord with listeners navigating modern relationships in an increasingly disconnected world.
Writing’s on the Wall
As the theme song for the James Bond film “Spectre,” “Writing’s on the Wall” represents Sam Smith’s successful entry into the world of cinematic music and orchestral pop. Smith became the first British artist to reach number one in the UK with a Bond theme since 1965, and the song earned them an Oscar for Best Original Song. The track features dramatic orchestration and Smith’s falsetto vocals reaching impressive heights, creating an atmosphere of romantic desperation that perfectly complemented the film’s themes. While some critics initially questioned whether Smith’s emotional style would suit the Bond franchise, the song’s commercial success and award recognition validated the choice. The production balances traditional Bond orchestration with modern pop sensibilities, creating a bridge between classic and contemporary interpretations of the iconic franchise.
Unholy
“Unholy,” featuring Kim Petras, marked a dramatic departure from Sam Smith’s earlier ballad-heavy work, embracing a darker, more experimental electronic sound that surprised and delighted fans. Released in 2022, the song tells the story of a married man’s infidelity, with Smith and Petras trading verses over a pulsing, minimalist production that feels both sinister and addictive. The track became Smith’s first number-one single on the Billboard Hot 100 as a lead artist, proving their ability to evolve and remain relevant in a constantly changing musical landscape. The song’s success demonstrated that audiences were eager to see Smith explore new sonic territory, and the collaboration with Petras brought together two powerful voices from the LGBTQ+ community. “Unholy” represents a bold artistic reinvention that respects Smith’s roots while pushing their sound in exciting new directions.
Lay Me Down
“Lay Me Down” serves as one of the most emotionally raw and vulnerable songs in Sam Smith’s catalog, originally released in 2013 and later re-released in 2015 for charity. The song deals with grief and loss, with Smith imagining speaking to someone who has passed away, asking to be reunited with them in death. The stark piano arrangement and Smith’s trembling vocal delivery create an atmosphere of profound sadness that few artists can achieve with such authenticity. When the song was re-released for Comic Relief, with proceeds going to charity, it introduced the track to a wider audience and highlighted Smith’s commitment to using their platform for good. The live performances of this song, particularly at the 2015 Brit Awards, are remembered as some of the most emotionally charged moments in recent awards show history.
Dancing with a Stranger
The collaboration between Sam Smith and Normani on “Dancing with a Stranger” produced one of the catchiest and most successful pop songs of 2020, blending both artists’ strengths perfectly. The song explores the idea of seeking distraction from heartbreak through new romantic encounters, with both Smith and Normani delivering vocals that convey both pain and desire. The production features a driving beat and electronic elements that make the song perfect for both radio play and dance floors, marking a more upbeat direction for Smith. This track proved that Smith could excel in collaborative settings, with the chemistry between their voice and Normani’s creating a dynamic that elevated the song beyond what either could achieve alone. The song’s commercial success and streaming numbers demonstrated Smith’s continued relevance in the pop music landscape.
Promises
Sam Smith’s collaboration with Calvin Harris on “Promises” resulted in a euphoric dance track that became one of the biggest hits of 2018, topping charts across Europe and beyond. The song features Smith’s vocals over Harris’s signature electronic production, creating a perfect marriage of emotional depth and dancefloor energy that appeals to both club-goers and casual listeners. Smith’s falsetto soars over the pulsing beat as they sing about the promises made and broken in relationships, adding lyrical substance to an infectious instrumental. The track earned a Grammy nomination and proved that Smith could adapt their vocal style to fit within the electronic dance music genre without losing their distinctive identity. This collaboration opened new doors for Smith, demonstrating their versatility and willingness to experiment with different producers and sounds.
Latch
Although technically a Disclosure song featuring Sam Smith, “Latch” deserves recognition as the track that first introduced many listeners to Smith’s extraordinary voice and launched their career. Released in 2012, the song features Smith’s vocals over Disclosure’s garage house production, creating an addictive blend of electronic music and soulful singing. The song’s success in clubs and on radio helped build anticipation for Smith’s solo work, with many listeners eager to hear more from the unknown vocalist. “Latch” demonstrated Smith’s ability to excel in dance music contexts while maintaining the emotional resonance that would become their trademark. The track remains a favorite in both artists’ catalogs and is often credited with helping to revive interest in UK garage and house music in the mainstream.
Like I Can
From the debut album “In the Lonely Hour,” “Like I Can” showcases Sam Smith’s confidence and vocal agility with a more upbeat, assertive energy than many of their ballads. The song features Smith declaring that a new partner cannot love their ex the way they did, combining heartbreak with a defiant self-assurance that adds complexity to the album’s narrative. The production includes handclaps and a driving rhythm that makes the song feel more celebratory than mournful, despite the underlying pain in the lyrics. This track demonstrates Smith’s range as an artist, proving they could deliver uptempo material without sacrificing the emotional authenticity that defines their work. The vocal runs and melismatic flourishes throughout the song highlight Smith’s technical abilities and gospel influences.
Fire on Fire
Written for the BBC series “Watership Down,” “Fire on Fire” showcases Sam Smith’s ability to create cinematic music that serves a narrative while standing alone as a powerful song. Released in 2019, the track features orchestral arrangements and Smith’s soaring vocals expressing themes of devotion and unbreakable bonds that complemented the animated series perfectly. The song’s production builds from intimate verses to an explosive chorus that demonstrates Smith’s dynamic range and emotional power. This track represents Smith’s continued exploration of film and television music, following their success with “Writing’s on the Wall” and proving their versatility across different media. The song received critical acclaim for capturing the spirit of the classic novel while feeling contemporary and relevant.
How Do You Sleep?
“How Do You Sleep?” represents one of Sam Smith’s most direct and confrontational songs, addressing an ex-lover with pointed questions about their ability to rest easy after causing pain. Released in 2020 from the album “Love Goes,” the track features a more electronic production style that marked Smith’s evolution toward dance-pop sounds. The song’s accusatory tone and sardonic lyrics show a different side of Smith’s personality, moving beyond vulnerability into justified anger and empowerment. The Calvin Harris remix of the track became popular in clubs and streaming playlists, introducing the song to audiences who might not typically engage with Smith’s ballad-heavy work. This track proved that Smith could channel negative emotions into compelling music that resonates with anyone who has experienced betrayal.
Money on My Mind
As one of Sam Smith’s earlier singles, “Money on My Mind” showcased a more upbeat and playful side of their artistry while addressing the complexities of newfound fame. The song’s lyrics reflect on staying grounded despite success, with Smith asserting that financial gain isn’t their primary motivation for making music. The production features a catchy hook and electronic elements that made the song radio-friendly while maintaining lyrical substance. This track demonstrated Smith’s self-awareness and helped establish them as an artist with depth beyond romantic ballads. The song’s commercial success in the UK, where it reached number one, proved that British audiences were ready to embrace Smith’s full range as an artist.
To Die For
“To Die For” showcases Sam Smith’s continued evolution as a songwriter, exploring themes of all-consuming love with more mature production and vocal techniques. Released as the lead single from “Love Goes,” the track features Smith’s voice over a minimalist production that gradually builds, creating tension and release. The song’s lyrics paint love as both beautiful and dangerous, with Smith’s delivery conveying the intoxication and risk of giving yourself completely to another person. This track received praise from critics for its sophisticated production and Smith’s willingness to experiment with their vocal approach. The song represents the artistic growth Smith achieved between albums, demonstrating increasing confidence in exploring different musical territories.
One Last Song
From “The Thrill of It All,” “One Last Song” serves as a poignant reflection on a relationship’s final moments, with Smith asking for one more chance to connect before saying goodbye. The track features orchestral arrangements and Smith’s emotional vocals building to a powerful crescendo that captures the desperation of trying to hold onto something slipping away. The song’s production balances intimacy in the verses with grandeur in the chorus, creating a dynamic listening experience. This track demonstrates Smith’s continued mastery of the emotional ballad format while showing growth in their production choices and vocal arrangements. The song resonates with anyone who has experienced the bittersweet mixture of love and loss that comes with endings.
My Oasis
The collaboration with Burna Boy on “My Oasis” brought together two distinctive voices for a smooth, Afrobeat-influenced track that showcased Smith’s versatility. Released in 2020, the song features a laid-back production style that contrasts with much of Smith’s more dramatic work, creating a refreshing addition to their catalog. Smith’s vocals blend surprisingly well with Burna Boy’s style, with both artists singing about finding peace and sanctuary in a relationship. The track introduced Smith to Burna Boy’s large African and Caribbean fanbase while demonstrating their willingness to explore diverse musical influences. This collaboration represents the increasingly global nature of popular music and Smith’s desire to work across cultural and genre boundaries.
I Feel Love
Sam Smith’s cover of Donna Summer’s disco classic “I Feel Love” for the 2023 compilation “Pride 2023” demonstrates their ability to reinterpret iconic songs while making them distinctly their own. Smith’s version maintains the electronic pulse of the original while adding their signature vocal emotionality and contemporary production techniques. The choice to cover this particular song pays homage to LGBTQ+ musical history while introducing a new generation to one of dance music’s most important tracks. Smith’s rendition received praise for respecting the original while not being afraid to modernize and personalize the arrangement. This track represents Smith’s role as a connector between different eras of queer musical expression.
Diamonds
“Diamonds” showcases Sam Smith’s vocal prowess with a more upbeat production that highlights their ability to deliver joy alongside the melancholy that often defines their work. Released as part of “Love Goes,” the track features lyrics about seeing beauty and value in a partner, with Smith’s voice conveying warmth and affection. The production includes shimmering synths and a danceable beat that makes the song feel celebratory and life-affirming. This track demonstrates that Smith’s artistry extends beyond heartbreak and pain into expressions of genuine happiness and appreciation. The song’s positive message and infectious energy make it a standout in Smith’s catalog for its life-affirming qualities.
Make It to Me
From “In the Lonely Hour,” “Make It to Me” features Sam Smith expressing openness to new love while acknowledging past hurts and fears. The song’s production combines piano, strings, and subtle electronic elements, creating a lush soundscape for Smith’s vocals to soar over. The lyrics convey both vulnerability and hope, with Smith singing about being ready for someone special to enter their life and prove that love can work. This track shows Smith’s ability to write about love from different perspectives within a single album, adding depth and complexity to the overall narrative. The song’s gentle optimism provides a counterbalance to some of the more devastating tracks on the album.
Desire
The remixed version of “Desire” released in 2023 represents Sam Smith’s continued exploration of electronic dance music and club culture with bold, unapologetic sensuality. The track features pulsing beats and Smith’s vocals expressing physical desire and attraction with a directness that marks their artistic evolution. This song demonstrates Smith’s confidence in exploring themes of sexuality and pleasure, contributing to broader conversations about queer desire in mainstream music. The production is designed for club play while maintaining the vocal quality that Smith’s fans expect, creating a bridge between commercial and underground dance music. This track represents Smith’s ongoing commitment to pushing boundaries and refusing to be constrained by industry expectations.
Perfect
“Perfect” from the 2023 album “Gloria” showcases Sam Smith’s continued evolution as a songwriter, embracing self-love and acceptance with uplifting production and affirming lyrics. The song features Smith celebrating their journey toward self-acceptance, acknowledging imperfections while recognizing their inherent worth. The production includes contemporary pop elements while maintaining the emotional authenticity that has always defined Smith’s best work. This track represents a more mature perspective on love, focusing on the relationship with oneself rather than external validation from romantic partners. The song’s positive message and Smith’s confident vocal delivery make it an anthem for anyone working toward self-acceptance and personal growth.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sam Smith’s most successful song?
“Unholy” featuring Kim Petras became Sam Smith’s most commercially successful song, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping charts in numerous countries worldwide. The track marked a dramatic artistic departure from their earlier ballad-focused work, embracing a darker electronic sound that resonated with both longtime fans and new listeners. The song’s massive streaming numbers and cultural impact solidified Smith’s status as an artist capable of reinvention and continued relevance in the evolving music industry.
How many Grammy Awards has Sam Smith won?
Sam Smith has won four Grammy Awards throughout their career, with their most significant wins coming at the 2015 ceremony where they took home awards for Best New Artist, Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best Pop Vocal Album. These early wins established Smith as a major force in the music industry and validated their unique approach to emotional, vulnerable songwriting. Smith’s Grammy success reflects both critical acclaim and commercial appeal, demonstrating their ability to create music that resonates with both industry professionals and general audiences.
What album contains Sam Smith’s biggest hits?
“In the Lonely Hour,” Sam Smith’s 2014 debut album, contains many of their biggest and most enduring hits including “Stay With Me,” “I’m Not the Only One,” and “Lay Me Down.” The album’s cohesive exploration of unrequited love and loneliness connected with audiences worldwide, selling millions of copies and establishing Smith’s signature sound. While later albums have produced major hits like “Too Good at Goodbyes” and “Unholy,” the debut remains their most commercially successful and culturally impactful release to date.
Has Sam Smith won an Oscar?
Yes, Sam Smith won the Academy Award for Best Original Song for “Writing’s on the Wall,” the theme song for the James Bond film “Spectre,” at the 2016 ceremony. The win made Smith one of the youngest recipients of this particular Oscar and proved their ability to create music that serves cinematic narratives while standing alone as powerful songs. This achievement added to Smith’s impressive collection of major awards and demonstrated their versatility across different musical contexts and media.
What genre is Sam Smith’s music?
Sam Smith’s music primarily falls within pop and soul genres, though their work incorporates elements of R&B, electronic dance music, gospel, and contemporary ballad traditions. Their earlier work leaned heavily toward emotional piano-driven ballads with gospel influences, while recent releases have explored electronic production and dance-pop sounds. This genre fluidity demonstrates Smith’s artistic range and willingness to evolve, refusing to be confined to a single musical category throughout their career.
Who has Sam Smith collaborated with?
Sam Smith has collaborated with numerous prominent artists including Disclosure on “Latch,” Normani on “Dancing with a Stranger,” Calvin Harris on “Promises,” Kim Petras on “Unholy,” and Burna Boy on “My Oasis.” These collaborations span different genres and styles, from electronic dance music to Afrobeat influences, showcasing Smith’s versatility and appeal across musical boundaries. Each collaboration has brought different dimensions to Smith’s artistry while introducing their voice to diverse audiences around the world.
What is Sam Smith’s vocal range?
Sam Smith is a tenor with an impressive vocal range that spans approximately three octaves, known particularly for their powerful falsetto and ability to convey deep emotion through subtle vocal techniques. Their voice combines technical precision with raw emotional vulnerability, creating performances that feel both polished and deeply personal. Smith’s vocal control and distinctive tone have become their signature, allowing them to excel in both quiet, intimate moments and powerful, soaring choruses that showcase their full range.