There’s a moment that true music lovers cherish when an artist is found that is musically diverse, culturally relevant, visibly accessible, and able to deliver quality music without fail. That moment is reached each time one experiences the sounds of Leah Smith. From acoustic melodies, to heavy hitting beats, orchestral compositions to the stripped down, unplugged sound of a sole piano and vocalist, 21-year-old Leah Smith delivers it all. Her voice effortlessly transitions in and out of high octaves, and her music moves from ballads to hip-hop inspired, upbeat tempos with ease.
Hailing from the streets of North Philadelphia and a product of Philadelphia’s prestigious Creative and Performing Arts High School, music has always been a part of Leah’s life. Smith gave her first vocal solo at the age of 4 and at the age of 9, began singing with the Temple University Program for Gifted Young Musicians. She began recording with the Baltimore based group Sandtown before she was even in a double digit age category and began writing songs at age 11. In 2008, Smith became the winner of the Best of Philly Rising/World Café Live Showcase and released her debut EP entitled Beautifully Made in October 2009 to rave reviews. Smith’s current single, Monster debuted at number 1 on digstation.com within its first week of sales.
Singer/Songwriter/Musician Leah Smith has shared the stage with Grammy Award winning artists such as Aretha Franklin, Alicia Keys, and Israel Houghton. A former member of Israel Houghton and New Breed, Smith has already toured the United States, Asia, Europe, and Australia. Smith’s music offers a breath of fresh air to the music that mainstream culture has grown accustomed to. Leah Smith wants to share with her listeners that “real, living hope is accessible to all.” Her sound crosses genre barriers blending soul, gospel, pop, and folk musical styles to create a sound all her own. Smith’s debut EP Entitled Beautifully Made is in stores now.
