Sam Smith has released over 40 singles as a lead and featured artist, spanning a career that transformed from traditional blue-eyed soul to experimental synth-pop. From the global breakthrough of "Stay with Me" to the boundary-pushing success of "Unholy," their discography reflects a profound journey of vocal mastery and personal identity.
Since their debut in the early 2010s, Sam Smith has remained one of the most consistent forces in the global music industry. Their ability to pivot between heartbreaking ballads and high-energy dance tracks has earned them four Grammy Awards, an Academy Award, and billions of streams. To understand the trajectory of Sam Smith’s career, one must look at the singles that defined each era, from their early collaborations with Disclosure to the bold, queer-coded anthems of the Gloria period and beyond.
The Formative Years: Early Collaborations (2012–2013)
Before Sam Smith was a household name, they were the voice behind some of the most influential electronic tracks of the early 2010s. These singles were not part of Smith's own albums initially, but they served as the foundation for their future success.
"Latch" (with Disclosure)
Released in late 2012, "Latch" was the world’s introduction to Smith’s unique falsetto. While it was technically a Disclosure track, Smith’s vocal performance was the centerpiece. It was a slow-burn hit, eventually peaking at number seven on the US Billboard Hot 100 and number eleven in the UK. The song’s sophisticated production combined with Smith’s soulful delivery bridged the gap between underground garage house and mainstream pop.
"La La La" (with Naughty Boy)
In 2013, Smith collaborated with producer Naughty Boy on "La La La." This single was a massive commercial success, reaching number one in several countries, including the UK. The track demonstrated Smith's versatility, proving they could handle up-tempo, rhythm-heavy arrangements just as effectively as melodic ballads.
The Breakthrough Era: In the Lonely Hour (2014–2015)
The release of Smith’s debut studio album, In the Lonely Hour, marked the beginning of their era as a global superstar. The singles from this album focused heavily on themes of unrequited love and loneliness, paired with stripped-back production.
"Lay Me Down"
Originally released as the lead single in early 2013, "Lay Me Down" did not achieve major commercial success until it was re-released in 2015. It is perhaps the purest example of Smith’s vocal capabilities, focusing on a raw, emotional plea for a lost partner. The 2015 version, which included a Red Nose Day duet with John Legend, further cemented the song’s legacy.
"Money on My Mind"
Moving away from the ballad format, "Money on My Mind" was a mid-tempo track that addressed the pressures of the music industry. It became Smith's first solo number-one single in the UK, showcasing a more rhythmic, pop-forward side of their artistry.
"Stay with Me"
"Stay with Me" is arguably the defining song of Smith’s early career. This gospel-influenced ballad became a global phenomenon, peaking at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and winning Grammy Awards for Record of the Year and Song of the Year. Its simple arrangement—piano, organ, and a multi-tracked choir of Smith’s own voice—allowed the emotional weight of the lyrics to resonate universally.
"I'm Not the Only One" and "Like I Can"
The album continued to produce hits with "I'm Not the Only One," a soul-inflected track about infidelity, and "Like I Can," a more upbeat, driving pop song. Both singles performed exceptionally well on international charts, proving that the public had a massive appetite for Smith's brand of emotional honesty.
The Sophomore Standard: The Thrill of It All (2017–2018)
After a brief hiatus following their Oscar win for the James Bond theme "Writing's on the Wall," Smith returned with their second album, The Thrill of It All. This era saw Smith leaning further into soul and gospel influences while maintaining their pop sensibilities.
"Too Good at Goodbyes"
The lead single, "Too Good at Goodbyes," was an instant hit. It debuted at number one in the UK and reached the top five in the US. The song explored the emotional callousing that comes with repeated heartbreak, featuring a choir-backed chorus that became a staple of Smith’s live performances.
"One Last Song" and "Pray"
"One Last Song" served as a final farewell to an old flame, while "Pray" saw Smith collaborating with legendary producer Timbaland. "Pray" was a significant departure, incorporating more urban and contemporary R&B elements, reflecting Smith’s desire to evolve beyond the "balladeer" label.
The Transition to Pop: Love Goes (2019–2021)
The Love Goes era marked a significant stylistic shift. Smith began to embrace their identity more openly, and the music followed suit, moving toward dance-pop, synth-pop, and collaborations with major pop stars.
"Dancing with a Stranger" (with Normani)
This 2019 collaboration with Normani was a pivotal moment. It was a sleek, R&B-influenced pop track that dominated radio airwaves for months. It became one of the most-played songs of the year globally and signaled that Smith was ready to dominate the dance floor as much as the heartbreak charts.
"How Do You Sleep?"
Continuing the pop momentum, "How Do You Sleep?" featured a more aggressive, synth-driven sound. The accompanying music video, which featured Smith performing choreographed dance for the first time, was a statement of liberation and self-acceptance.
"Diamonds" and "My Oasis"
"Diamonds" was a high-energy heartbreak anthem that leaned into 80s synth-pop aesthetics. Meanwhile, "My Oasis" (featuring Burna Boy) showcased Smith’s ability to blend their style with Afrobeat influences, further expanding their sonic palette.
The Bold Rebirth: Gloria (2022–2024)
As of 2026, music critics often point to the Gloria era as the moment Sam Smith fully embraced their provocative, unapologetic self. This era was characterized by a shift from sadness to celebration.
"Unholy" (with Kim Petras)
"Unholy" was a cultural juggernaut. It became a viral sensation on TikTok before its release and debuted at number one on the Billboard Hot 100. The track was a dark, industrial-pop departure from anything Smith had done before. It also made history, as Smith and Kim Petras became the first non-binary and openly transgender artists, respectively, to reach the top of the US charts and win a Grammy for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance.
"I'm Not Here to Make Friends"
Produced by Calvin Harris, this single was a disco-infused anthem about queer joy and dating. It further established the Gloria era as one of liberation, moving far away from the "lonely" themes of Smith’s debut.
"Desire" (with Calvin Harris)
Released in mid-2023, "Desire" continued Smith's successful partnership with Calvin Harris. The track is a high-tempo trance and Eurodance throwback that solidified Smith’s place as a premier vocalist for the electronic dance music scene.
Soundtrack Singles and Standalone Releases
Throughout their career, Sam Smith has contributed to several high-profile soundtracks and released standalone singles that do not belong to a traditional album cycle.
- "Writing's on the Wall" (2015): The theme song for the James Bond film Spectre. While it received mixed reviews initially, it went on to win both a Golden Globe and an Academy Award for Best Original Song.
- "Fire on Fire" (2018): Recorded for the Watership Down miniseries, this ballad returned Smith to their orchestral, emotive roots.
- "Night Before Christmas" (2022): A holiday single that showcased Smith’s ability to deliver classic, crooner-style vocals.
Comprehensive Singles Chart Performance
The following table outlines the peak chart positions and release years for Sam Smith's most impactful singles as of early 2026.
| Single Title | Release Year | Album / Project | UK Peak | US Peak |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Latch (Disclosure feat. Sam Smith) | 2012 | Settle | 11 | 7 |
| La La La (Naughty Boy feat. Sam Smith) | 2013 | Hotel Cabana | 1 | 19 |
| Lay Me Down | 2013/2015 | In the Lonely Hour | 1 | 8 |
| Money on My Mind | 2014 | In the Lonely Hour | 1 | 67 |
| Stay with Me | 2014 | In the Lonely Hour | 1 | 2 |
| I'm Not the Only One | 2014 | In the Lonely Hour | 3 | 5 |
| Writing's on the Wall | 2015 | Spectre OST | 1 | 71 |
| Too Good at Goodbyes | 2017 | The Thrill of It All | 1 | 4 |
| Pray | 2017 | The Thrill of It All | 26 | 55 |
| Promises (with Calvin Harris) | 2018 | Standalone | 1 | 65 |
| Dancing with a Stranger (with Normani) | 2019 | Love Goes | 3 | 7 |
| How Do You Sleep? | 2019 | Love Goes | 7 | 24 |
| Diamonds | 2020 | Love Goes | 11 | 39 |
| Unholy (with Kim Petras) | 2022 | Gloria | 1 | 1 |
| I'm Not Here to Make Friends | 2023 | Gloria | 23 | 71 |
| Desire (with Calvin Harris) | 2023 | Standalone | 6 | — |
Critical and Commercial Impact
The evolution of Sam Smith’s singles provides a roadmap of the shifting landscape of pop music over the last decade. Early on, Smith was the "voice of heartbreak," a title they earned through meticulous vocal control and an ability to convey vulnerability. Songs like "Stay with Me" were instrumental in bringing soulful, acoustic-led music back to the top of the charts during an era dominated by EDM.
However, the shift toward tracks like "Unholy" and "Desire" demonstrates a broader trend in Smith’s career: the rejection of boxes. By 2026, Smith is viewed not just as a singer, but as a cultural icon who has successfully navigated the complexities of gender identity and public perception while maintaining a string of hits. Their singles have transitioned from being "safe" radio staples to provocative pieces of art that spark conversation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sam Smith's most successful single?
Commercially, "Stay with Me" remains their most enduring hit in terms of worldwide sales and cultural recognition. However, "Unholy" (2022) achieved a different kind of success, becoming a massive digital-first hit that broke multiple records for non-binary and trans artists on the Billboard charts.
How many number-one singles does Sam Smith have?
In the UK, Sam Smith has secured over eight number-one singles, including "Money on My Mind," "Stay with Me," "Writing's on the Wall," and "Promises." In the US, "Unholy" remains their highest-charting single, reaching the number-one spot on the Billboard Hot 100.
Did Sam Smith win an Oscar for a single?
Yes. Sam Smith won the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 2016 for "Writing's on the Wall," the theme for the James Bond film Spectre. They were the first British male solo artist to perform a Bond theme since 1965.
Are there any Sam Smith singles that were not on an album?
Yes, several. "Promises" (with Calvin Harris) and "Desire" (with Calvin Harris) are prominent examples of standalone singles. Additionally, "Writing's on the Wall" was a soundtrack release that did not appear on a standard studio album until later compilation releases.
How has Sam Smith's musical style changed over the years?
Smith began with a focus on soul, gospel, and jazz-inspired ballads. Around 2019, they transitioned into contemporary pop, R&B, and dance music. Their 2023 album Gloria and subsequent singles have leaned into disco, club music, and experimental pop.
Next Steps for Fans and Researchers
To fully appreciate the breadth of Sam Smith's discography, listeners should explore the official music videos, which often provide essential context for the songs' themes—particularly during the Love Goes and Gloria eras. For those interested in the technical aspects of their career, tracking the production credits from Jimmy Napes to Ilya Salmanzadeh reveals the strategic shifts that have kept Smith relevant in a rapidly changing industry. Whether you are looking for a soulful ballad or a dance-floor anthem, Sam Smith’s singles catalog offers a diverse and high-quality selection of modern pop history.
