Jorja Smith’s third studio albumWhat Are the Oddsarrives this week as a vibrant, high-energy collection designed for the dancefloor. Moving away from the introspective, soulful R&B that defined her 2016 breakout singleBlue Lightsthe 29-year-old artist has crafted a record filled with UK garage and funky house influences. Produced alongside Richard Isong—known as P2J and recognized for his work with Beyoncé, Burna Boy, and Tems—the project features collaborations with artists such as Wizkid and Devlin. Smith describes the album as a “certified, old-fashioned ass-shaker,” noting that her love for dancing and the desire to hear her own music in clubs drove the creative shift.
The recording process for this album marked a departure from her previous work. While her debutLost & Foundand its successorFalling Or Flyingwere created because she felt the pressure to release new music, this project grew organically. After recording the club-ready singleLittle Thingswith P2J, the pair initially intended to produce only a dance EP. However, the momentum was immediate; Smith recalls that they completed nine songs within the first two days, prompting her to tell her label that the project had evolved into a full-length album.
Despite the upbeat tempo, the album maintains Smith’s signature emotional depth. Tracks likeFor Lifeaddress the grief of losing a friend to addiction, whileYoung Heartserves as a tribute to her younger self. Smith views the release as a significant milestone, expressing hope that it will inspire the next generation in her hometown of Walsall. She is also scheduled to perform at the Walsall Arena on September 6.
The release has prompted discussions about a “comeback,” a narrative Smith finds frustrating. She clarifies that she has not been away, but rather has been navigating the complexities of a career that began when she was just 18. Having entered the industry as a teenager uploading covers to YouTube, Smith admits she never sought fame. While she appreciates her fanbase, she describes herself as a private person who has struggled with the intrusive nature of modern celebrity, particularly the pressure to maintain a constant online presence.
This scrutiny became particularly toxic in the lead-up to her 2023 albumFalling Or Flyingwhen online discourse shifted toward her appearance. Smith recalls how her weight became a trending topic on X, with users posting “before and after” comparisons. “It was difficult. I’d be reading things like: ‘What happened to her?’ Or, ‘She’s let herself go,’” she says, noting that the criticism severely impacted her confidence. At the time, the narrative was entirely disconnected from her reality; she was actually eating more consistently and felt healthier than she had in years, having previously struggled with an obsessive, high-pressure lifestyle.
The experience led Smith to withdraw from public life, avoiding photoshoots and even leaving her home for fear of being photographed. She acknowledges that she still occasionally encounters negative comments and finds herself questioning their validity, though she quickly dismisses the absurdity of letting random strangers dictate her self-worth. To protect her mental health, she has stepped back from managing her own social media accounts.
Finding balance remains a priority for the singer. She has recently signed up for the London Marathon next year, seeking a new goal to channel her energy. “I wanted a goal, and I watched everyone finishing it this year and thought: That’s such a sick thing to do,” she explains. As she navigates the demands of her career, she remains focused on living life outside of the industry, joking that she refuses to turn down opportunities for fun, lest she reach 70 with no stories to tell. 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.
