Jorja Smith's 'falling or flying' Encapsulates The Dichotomy Of Life

Artwork shot by Liz Johnson Artur

Balancing the dichotomy between the highs and the lows in life, Jorja Smith’s long-awaited album falling or flying is sonically varied and represents a new chapter for the artist.

For the past six years, Jorja Smith has won the hearts of music fans within the UK and beyond. Initially garnering attention for songs ‘Where Did I Go?’ and ‘Blue Lights’, she is recognised for the honesty within her lyrics, powerful vocals and raw talent.

After breaking her hiatus in 2021 with EP Be Right Back, Smith vowed her return to fans: ‘It was a little waiting room so people knew I was coming back’. Continuing to experiment with her sound and evolution as an artist, the artist takes the opportunity to reflect on the last few years which have involved transitioning into her mid-twenties and stepping into herself as a singer-songwriter.

Opening with the defiant single ‘Try Me’, a song about remaining true to herself despite public perceptions, Jorja explains why it was chosen as the first song on the album: ‘It's kind of ‘BAM’! You know? It whacks you right in the face, it sounds like an entrance.’

From the summer anthem ‘Little Things’ which explores dance and afrobeats sounds, to the J Hus feature ‘Feelings’ about wanting someone who is focusing on themself, there is an exploration of relationships: the romantic, platonic and personal.

The first half of the album (‘flying’) represents the highs, self-assurance and security, juxtaposing the second half (‘falling’) with ‘Try and Fit In’ and ‘Broken is the man’ that expresses themes of insecurity and doubt. The soulful, reggae-infused sound behind ‘Greatest Gift’ featuring Lila Iké is a letter to her younger self acknowledging her strength and pride; a warm hug to her inner child.

Smith recognises her lyrical content on falling or flying as introspective moments of self-reflection: ‘So much of the time I think I’ve written a song about someone, and then realise I’m actually talking about myself … So sometimes these songs are just me being there for myself.’

The album is a reminder to herself and her listeners that through the ups and downs of life, Jorja Smith is in control and continues to move forward in her musical journey with grace whilst honouring her younger self.

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