Swagger, Stardom, and Sunderland: Tom A Smith Is Just Getting Started
Photo Credit: Katie Anderson
Swagger, Stardom, and Sunderland: Tom A Smith Is Just Getting Started
From the gritty charm of Sunderland to the glitz of Hyde Park, Tom A Smith is carving out a career that’s equal parts rock ‘n’ roll and cinematic flair. With his swagger-packed new single “Fashion” turning heads, a role as Dave Stewart in the upcoming Eurythmics biopic, and the surreal honor of opening for Sir Elton John, Smith is proving he’s more than just a rising star—he’s a force in motion. In this candid interview, the indie rocker talks guitars, gigs, and the stories behind the songs, offering a glimpse into the whirlwind journey of one of the UK’s most exciting young talents.
Where are you based, and what’s your local music scene like?
I’m from Sunderland in the northeast of England, and the local music scene is brilliant. We’ve recently been granted Music City status, which is a huge moment for us. For a while, the scene wasn’t great, but over the last 10 years—especially in the city center—it’s really taken shape. Sunderland’s cultural hub is now built around music. We’ve got way more venues than we used to, and it’s thriving.
You’ve been announced to play Dave Stewart in a Eurythmics biopic. How did that come about, and have you met Dave Stewart or Annie Lennox?
Funny story—Dave rang me at a family barbecue about two years ago and asked if I’d ever done any acting. I hadn’t, really. I did a bit of stage school when I was younger, but nothing serious. He sent me the script, and I was instantly excited. The character is based on his upbringing in Sunderland, so there’s a lot I can relate to. I think one of the main reasons I got the role is because we have similar accents, and the Sunderland accent is a tough one to nail. It’s an exciting project to be part of, and I’ve met Dave a couple of times now.
You recently played an acoustic set at one of the Gibson showrooms. How did that go, and what were some highlights?
It was amazing. I’m a proper guitar nerd, so I was loving it. They sent me to a green room upstairs that was full of guitars hanging on the walls. They said, “Plug in what you want, play what you want,” so I had a great time. It’s rare for me to play solo acoustic sets, but it went down really well. I played my latest single, which got a great reaction. I even picked up a souvenir guitar strap before I left. It was a really special day.
Photo Credit: Katie Anderson
I saw in your bio that you opened for Elton John at Hyde Park. What was that experience like, and how did it come about?
That was about three years ago. I got an email saying Elton John was going to play my song on his Apple Music Rocket Hour show. I was like, “Wow, how has he even heard it?” Then, about a week later, we had a FaceTime call. He knew more about me than I did—it was surreal.
I was on tour with Miles Kane, and we had a show in Manchester. While I was sound checking, I got an email saying Elton had invited me to open for him at Hyde Park. It was a total shock. Meeting him in person was incredible—he’s such a genuine, humble guy who really cares about new and upcoming music. It was magical, and pretty cool to have someone of his stature support me.
If Elton John were doing a tribute album and invited you to appear on it, what song would you choose and why?
Great question. I’d love to do “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” as a duet with someone—I think that’d be a lot of fun. He’s got so many elite tracks, though, it’d be hard to choose. Honestly, I’d be happy to do any of them. But yeah, probably that one as a duet.
Your newest single, “Fashion,” has so much swagger. What inspired it?
Funny enough, it started with a chat with Dave Stewart. He told me that when he wrote “Sweet Dreams,” he started with a blues guitar line and layered it with a synth bass. So I tried that, and “Fashion” came out of it—literally within 20 minutes. An hour and a half later, the whole song was done. It was one of those tracks that just falls out of the sky. Dave definitely sparked the idea.
And lyrically—where did the concept come from?
It kind of developed as the song went along. There wasn’t a set story at first, but it ended up being a commentary on how we spend so much time and money trying to look good—buying designer clothes we can’t really afford, while struggling to afford basic things like food or drinks. It’s about that contradiction, and I think it applies to a lot of people, myself included.
Tom A Smith via Zoom!
Another newer track is “Get Me Started.” What’s the story behind that one?
That one’s a total party anthem. I’m not the most confident or outgoing person, but when you go out and have a drink, you get that little boost. I thought, “Imagine if you could carry that confidence into everyday life.” It’s a big, in-your-face indie track made for the dance floor. It gets a great reaction live and is a key part of our set.
Do you have any new music on the horizon—another EP, album, or more singles?
I can’t share specifics yet, but yes—new music is definitely coming. I’ve spent the last year writing more than ever and really honing my sound. In the past, I’d release tracks here and there without much cohesion, but the new stuff follows a clear direction. It’s a strong batch of songs, and I’m excited for people to hear what’s next. It’s in the same vein as “Fashion.”
Have you ever played in the States? If so, how did the shows go?
I haven’t been to the States yet, but I’d absolutely love to. It’s a big dream of mine. The venues there are so iconic, and it feels like once you’ve made a record, that’s where you go. Hopefully soon—it’s definitely on the bucket list.
What’s next for you in the immediate future?
New music is on the way. It’s been about 18 months since I released a full body of work, so I’m super excited about what’s coming.
Any message for music fans in the States who might be discovering your music for the first time?
Thanks so much for listening—it means a lot. I hope to get over there soon and play for you in person. Keep supporting and staying up to date. It’s only going to get bigger and better from here.
(Interview by Ken Morton)
Tom A Smith on Instagram
