When it comes to modern pop, few artists have left a deeper mark than Sam Smith. Known for their soaring vocals and raw, emotional storytelling, Sam has transformed the sound of contemporary music while building one of the most powerful careers in the industry.
With a discography spanning over a decade, the best Sam Smith songs have not only topped charts but also redefined what it means to be authentic in pop music.
This countdown highlights ten of the most iconic tracks in Sam Smith’s discography, exploring how each one shaped their journey and influenced the global music scene.
List of Top 10 Sam Smith Songs
10. Lay Me Down (2013)
The debut single that introduced Sam to the world, Lay Me Down is pure vulnerability in song form. With gospel undertones and heartbreaking lyrics, it set the stage for the emotional honesty fans have come to expect. It was a signal of Sam Smith’s music evolution from aspiring artist to chart-dominating star.
9. I’m Not the Only One (2014)
This ballad combines soulful vocals with cinematic production, showcasing Sam’s ability to transform personal pain into universal anthems.
The song became one of the early Sam Smith pop hits, often praised for its timeless quality. Many fans still consider it among Sam’s most iconic songs.
8. Money on My Mind (2014)
Unlike their usual ballad style, this track revealed Sam’s versatility with uptempo beats and sharp social commentary.
It highlighted an artist unafraid to take risks and reject industry norms. The message resonated with listeners who admired Sam’s dedication to artistry over fame.
7. Too Good at Goodbyes (2017)
The lead single from The Thrill of It All became an instant global hit. With its choir-backed chorus and gut-wrenching lyrics, the track cemented Sam’s place as a ballad powerhouse.
It reflected the emotional maturity in their growing discography while pushing vocal performance to new heights.
6. Like I Can (2014)
A dance-floor ready anthem, Like I Can captured Sam’s playful energy while keeping their soulful essence. Its uplifting rhythm made it a favorite at live shows and demonstrated how Sam could adapt seamlessly to different pop sub-genres.
5. Fire on Fire (2018)
Written for the BBC adaptation of Watership Down, this sweeping ballad blends cinematic orchestration with Sam’s soaring voice. It proved that their artistry extended far beyond mainstream radio, influencing a wave of vocal-driven film soundtracks.
4. Love Me More (2022)
A personal anthem of self-acceptance, Love Me More reflects Sam’s journey toward self-confidence and authenticity. As part of their ongoing music evolution, this track resonated with fans navigating their own struggles with identity and belonging. It showed how deeply Sam’s songs can connect on an emotional level.
3. Unholy (with Kim Petras, 2022)
This Grammy-winning track was a cultural moment. A bold departure from Sam’s ballad roots, Unholy fused electronic beats with theatrical flair.
It not only topped global charts but also influenced a wave of darker, experimental pop hits. By collaborating with Kim Petras, Sam also advanced visibility and representation in mainstream music.
2. Stay With Me (2014)
Perhaps Sam’s most recognizable song, Stay With Me redefined the power ballad for a new generation. Its gospel-inspired chorus and emotional honesty made it one of the most-streamed and celebrated songs of the 2010s. This single is a cornerstone in the Sam Smith discography, symbolizing their rise to international stardom.
1. Writing’s on the Wall (2015)
As the theme for James Bond’s Spectre, this track solidified Sam’s status as a global icon. Winning the Academy Award for Best Original Song proved that Sam’s talent transcended pop charts, reaching into cinematic history.
The haunting melody and powerful delivery remain unmatched, making it one of Sam’s most iconic songs.
How Sam Smith Changed Pop Music?
Each of these songs reflects not only Sam’s growth as an artist but also broader shifts in pop culture. From redefining vulnerability in mainstream music to embracing bold new sounds, Sam Smith has consistently pushed boundaries. Their influence can be heard in today’s rising stars who draw inspiration from Sam’s unapologetic storytelling and vocal mastery.
The best Sam Smith songs have become more than just hits; they’ve become cultural touchstones, shaping how pop music sounds and feels in the 21st century.
Relive the Journey
Whether you’re rediscovering early ballads like Lay Me Down or celebrating bold new directions like Unholy, Sam’s work is proof of music’s power to heal, inspire, and unite.
For fans eager to dive deeper into the Sam Smith story, including behind-the-scenes moments and never-before-seen footage, Sam Smith Diva Boy offers an intimate experience.
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