“The Voice” Winner Jordan Smith Talks His New Album and Big Dreams
By Emily Cummins, ArtsQuest Public Relations Coordinator
Jordan Smith showed the world his musical gifts in 2015 when he became the best-selling artist in the history of NBC’s reality television singing competition “The Voice.”
During his run, superstar recording artists Adam Levine, Blake Shelton, Gwen Stefani and Pharrell Williams each claimed a red swivel chair during a blind audition. Smith then progressed to live performance shows and competed for America’s votes, ultimately winning Season 9 and a coveted recording contract.
On October 23 Jordan Smith visits the Musikfest Cafe presented by Yuengling, where fans can watch the Kentucky native as he shares the inspirational songs of his debut album “Something Beautiful”. While traveling the world on his first tour, Smith recently took the time to speak with ArtsQuest about his music and explosive success ahead of the release of his new holiday album “Tis The Season,” available October 28. Here’s what he had to say!
A lot of fans know you from “The Voice.” What is your life like now after that breakthrough moment?
Not only was “The Voice” an opportunity to grow as a musician and person, it was a platform that jumpstarted my career in a way that I couldn’t have on my own. I get to spend my time traveling and performing all across the US and even the world. Dream after dream has come true since the finale in December.
As you continue touring and meeting new fans, what experience on the road has been the most fun?
Traveling to new places is my favorite part of this journey. In early September I actually had the opportunity to travel to Florence, Italy and perform along with legends like David Foster, Andrea Bocelli and Reba McEntire at a charity event called Celebrity Fight Night. What a rewarding experience that was! I’m also very fortunate to travel with my wife on many occasions and having her by my side to explore and enjoy each new destination is one of the best parts.
After touring, what are you looking forward to most? Will you be returning to your hometown, Harlan, Kentucky?
I return to my hometown often. The mountains of Eastern Kentucky are a safe place for me and just being there renews my spirit. After touring, I will be sure to get back there and celebrate the upcoming holidays with my family!
Your music and the message behind your songs are an inspiration to others, but where did the inspiration for the original songs on your album “Something Beautiful” come from and what drives you as an artist?
Much of the original music on the album came from a place of personal experience. All of the songs on the project, both original material and cover songs, help tell my story so far as an artist. I want to make relatable music that people connect with; I want people to hear my songs and think of a time, person or event in their life when they felt the same way. I also want my music to be a positive force in the lives of my listeners that causes them to feel uplifted and more encouraged than before they started listening.
What music or artists influence you, and what’s your favorite song of 2016?
I pull influence from many different artists of very different genres. I like everything from Sara Bareilles to Hillsong to Florence and the Machine. I am inspired most by music that is authentic to the artist and carries a message that is important to them. It’s hard to choose a favorite song of 2016, but if I did it would have to be Adele’s “Remedy.”
With your first album, tour, your wedding and other huge milestones checked off, do you have a bucket list of things you want to accomplish or do?
I am always setting new goals. For example, I would love to write a book one day. Closest to the top of the list is one day singing the National Anthem at the Super Bowl!
What animal do you think reflects your personality best and why?
This is a hilarious question! Badgers are my spirit animal. I mean, who doesn’t love a badger? I do.
