Melodies in Intimacy: Sam Smith’s Captivating Tiny Desk Concert

Sam Smith: Tiny Desk Concert

A Captivating and Intimate Performance

By

September 29, 2023 12:00 PM ET

Credit: Photo: Michael Zamora

What you’ve got here is a perfect 20-minute distillation of The Sam Smith Experience. The Grammy-winning artist presented a mesmerizing Tiny Desk Concert that showcased their versatility and talent across a range of musical styles. The concert, which took place in a cozy and intimate setting, featured a carefully curated setlist that included some of Smith’s most popular hits.

A Journey through Sam Smith’s Musical Evolution

The performance began with the iconic 2014 ballad “Stay With Me,” a song that launched Smith into the music scene and established them as a powerhouse vocalist. The audience was immediately captivated by Smith’s soulful voice and emotional delivery. From there, the concert took a turn towards a sleek dance-pop sound with the infectious hit “How Do You Sleep.” The energy in the room soared as Smith and their band brought the song to life.

The concert continued with “Lay Me Down,” a stunning duet featuring LaDonna Harley-Peters. The collaboration added an extra layer of depth and beauty to the performance, showcasing Smith’s ability to connect with other artists and create magical musical moments. The set concluded with the chart-topping track “Unholy,” a bold and daring exploration of debauched hedonism. Smith introduced the song with a playful remark, setting the stage for a saucy and unforgettable ending to the concert.

An Unforgettable Ensemble Performance

Accompanied by an 11-person choir and two instrumentalists, Smith brought an overflowing bag of musical tricks to the proceedings. The choir added a rich and full sound to each song, creating a sense of grandeur and elevating the performance to new heights. Smith’s charisma and stage presence were palpable, as they commanded the stage with their powerful vocals and magnetic energy.

One of the highlights of the performance was the seamless interplay between Smith and the rest of the ensemble. Each song swayed and played effervescently, with Smith at the center, while also highlighting the magnificent voices of their supporting musicians. It was a true collaboration that showcased the collective talent and artistry of the entire ensemble.

A Gateway into Sam Smith’s Musical World

This Tiny Desk Concert may not serve as an introduction to the music of Sam Smith, as their career and hits are already well-known. However, it serves as a gateway into the deeper aspects of Smith’s musical world. The intimate and stripped-down nature of the performance allowed for a closer connection between the artist and the audience, creating a truly immersive experience.

Smith’s ability to transition seamlessly between different musical styles and genres was on full display. From the stately ballads to the louche and bawdy dance-pop numbers, Smith proved their versatility as an artist. The concert showcased Smith’s growth and evolution as a musician, providing a glimpse into their recent artistic direction.

Overall, Sam Smith’s Tiny Desk Concert was a joy to behold. It was a testament to their immense talent and the power of live performances. Smith’s vocals soared, the ensemble shone, and the audience was left wanting more. It was a truly captivating and intimate experience that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on all who witnessed it.

Set List:

• “Stay With Me”
• “How Do You Sleep”
• “Lay Me Down (feat. LaDonna Harley-Peters)”
• “Unholy”

Featured Musicians:

• Sam Smith: vocals
• Ruth O’Mahony Brady: piano, effects
• Ben Totten: guitar
• LaDonna Marie: vocals
• Patrick Linton: choir
• Lucita Jules: choir
• Megan Thomaston: choir
• Brandon Payne: choir
• Christian King: choir
• Troi Lauren: choir
• Roy Dyshon Warren: choir
• Carmen Kirvy: choir
• Shalisha Smith: choir
• Safa Alston: choir
• Ant Clemons: choir conductor

Tiny Desk Team:

• Producer: Bobby Carter
• Director/Editor: Joshua Bryant
• Audio Engineer: Josh Rogosin
• Creative Director: Bob Boilen
• Videographers: Joshua Bryant, Kara Frame, Sofia Seidel, Catie Dull
• Audio Assistant: Hannah Gluvna
• Production Assistant: Ashley Pointer
• Photographer: Michael Zamora
• Tiny Desk Team: Suraya Mohamed, Maia Stern, Hazel Cills
• VP, Visuals and Music: Keith Jenkins
• Senior VP, Programming: Anya Grundmann

Keywords: Music, Sam Smith, Tiny Desk Concert, live performance, intimate, captivating, melodies