For Jorja Smith, Performing in India is a ‘Surreal’ Moment

Jorja Smith’s warmth and down-to-earth nature shine through effortlessly, even in a brief conversation. With her India debut at NH7 Weekender just around the corner, the British singer-songwriter can’t hide her excitement. Flashing a big smile, she says, “I can’t believe I’m finally coming.”

From the beginning of the 15-minute-long conversation, the 27-year-old exudes a calm energy, mixing up anticipation with genuine curiosity about what lies ahead. “India has always been on my list of places to visit,” she tells Rolling Stone India. “It feels surreal that it’s finally happening.” Her excitement is palpable—a mix of joy and the thrill of experiencing something new. “Every time I visit a new country, it’s like a fresh page in a book. You never know what to expect, but it’s always memorable.”

Talking over a call, Jorja reminisces about her recent shows in Sydney and Norway, both of which left her in awe of the crowd’s energy. “Sydney was amazing,” she recalls. “I couldn’t believe how many people turned up. It’s a blessing to share these moments with so many people.” Her voice softens when she speaks about the connections formed during live performances. “It’s not just about singing; it’s about sharing a moment that stays with you forever.”

Performing in India for the first time, the “Blue Lights” singer admits she’s curious about what’s in store. “It’s always exciting stepping into the unknown,” she says. “I’ve been to places like Singapore and Bangkok recently, and it’s so special to see what songs people connect with the most. I’m just ready to meet everyone on stage and make new fans.”

Her new album, Falling or Flying, marks a transformative chapter in her life. It’s been five years since her debut, Lost & Found, a project she describes as a reflection of her teenage years. “I wrote some of those songs when I was 16,” she shares. “But with this (Falling or Flying) album, it’s about stepping into womanhood, figuring out who I am, and learning life lessons. It’s really just inspired by life itself.”

The project has a bold and fearless energy, which Jorja credits to her mindset. “I think I’ve just gotten to a place where I care less about what people think,” she explains. “I’ve always done what makes me happy, but now I’m experimenting with sounds, singing about what I want, and just having fun with it.”

One of her favorite songs from the album is “Greatest Gift,” which she describes as a heartfelt letter to her younger self. “It’s about being proud of who I’ve become while honoring who I used to be,” she says. “People interpret it in their own way, and that’s the beauty of it.”

Her journey with music has been deeply collaborative, but when asked about a favorite collaborator, she laughs. “Oh, I can’t pick just one!” she says. “Everyone I’ve worked with has brought something incredible to the table.” She reflects on the joy of co-writing and how each session brings something new. “It’s like a puzzle,” she adds. “Every collaborator adds a piece that completes the picture in a unique way.”

Jorja’s band, which she lovingly describes as her second family, has been by her side for years. From her musical director and keyboardist Amane Suganami and bassist Mutale Chashi, who’ve been with her since 2017, to newer additions like Thomas Fabian Totten on the guitar, Jas Kayser (JJ) on drums, Richie Sweet on percussions, and Alyssa Harrigan, Peace Oluwatobi, and Joel Baely on backing vocals, the group has grown and evolved together. “It’s like a big family,” she says. “We support each other, and even when someone has to step away for another gig, it’s all love. Everything works out the way it’s meant to.”

However, her India performance will be a slightly different setup. “This time, it’ll just be a PA set,” she explains. “But it’ll still be fun!”

When asked what she hopes the audience feels during her performance, Jorja keeps it simple. “Anything,” she says. “Whether it’s happiness, excitement, or even something more emotional, I just want them to feel. And we’ll all feel it together—no one’s alone in that moment.”

Outside of music, Jorja’s life is filled with small joys. Lately, she’s been listening to artists like Maverick Sabre, Nia Archives, and Kano. “I’ve also been rediscovering Colonel Abrams because my mum was playing his songs in the car recently,” she says, laughing. Writing remains a passion of hers too. “I used to write stories and poems as a kid. Maybe I’d be an author if I wasn’t a musician,” she muses.

Though her time in India will be brief, Jorja’s already made plans to explore. “My manager sent me a bakery we have to check out. I’m excited to try some cakes and bread,” she says. She’s also eager to soak in the local culture, even if it’s just through a fleeting moment or a delicious meal. “Food always tells a story,” she adds. “And I can’t wait to hear India’s.”

For now, she’s counting down the days until her performance. Her final message to Indian fans is heartfelt: “I’m just excited to see everyone and have fun together. Let’s make it special.”

You can grab your tickets for NH7 Weekender here.