What You Need to Know
• Jorja Smith releases her third album, What Are the Odds, showcasing her dance music influences.
• The album features “Little Things,” a funky-house track that diverges from her traditional pop-R&B sound.
• Smith previously collaborated with Drake and Black Coffee, establishing her connection to dance music in 2017.
Jorja Smith, the English singer-songwriter, has released her third album, What Are the Odds, which emphasizes her dance music roots. The album includes the single “Little Things,” a funky-house track that contrasts with her established pop-R&B style seen in her previous works, including her Mercury Prize-nominated debut, Lost & Found. Smith’s early career was marked by collaborations with notable artists like Drake on the 2017 track “Get It Together” and Birmingham DJ Preditah on “On My Mind,” both of which hinted at her dance music potential. What Are the Odds explores these influences further, presenting a collection of 38 minutes of dance tracks designed for the club scene.
Why It Matters
Jorja Smith’s evolution into dance music reflects a broader trend in contemporary pop, where artists increasingly blend genres to reach wider audiences. Her collaborations with established figures in the dance music scene, such as Black Coffee, have helped her gain recognition beyond traditional pop-R&B. The shift in her musical direction may also resonate with fans seeking more upbeat and danceable tracks, especially in a post-pandemic landscape where live music and club culture are regaining prominence. Smith’s ability to navigate different musical styles showcases her versatility and the changing dynamics of the music industry.
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