J.Smith’s debut single “I’m Sorry” examines the after-effects of heartbreak

By Tresca Mallon

Newly solo after the break-up of Gypsies on the Autobahn, Irish artist, James Smith, stage name J.Smith, storms out of the gate with his debut single “I’m Sorry” featuring Nnic. It’s a powerful and deeply personal ballad dealing with the intense impact of heartbreak.

Speaking about the single James said, “I’m Sorry was written for a friend years ago. They had recently broken up with their long-term partner out of the blue and they felt they couldn’t deal with it. I got a call soon after, telling of their despair and that they had talked themselves out of doing something regrettable. The song was a hand on their shoulder, to let them know that I was thinking of them, that I was trying to place myself in their shoes.”

Written in August 2019 in DIT conservatory with long time friend Ben Rawlins, and collaborating with Dylan Lynch, Donagh Seaver O’Leary (Soda Blonde) and brother Daniel Smith (Gypsies on the Autobahn), he had one day to bring his vision to life, finishing it off in Max Zaska’s (Zaska) home studio. It was adding the vocals of Naoise Fitzgerald (Nnic) which brought the track together.

Despite this being his debut solo single, J. Smith is a veteran on the music scene, having started as lead singer with former band Gypsies and the Autobahn at the age of 16 and having supported artists such Little Green Cars, Bombay Bicycle Club and Bleeding Heart Pigeons and selling out venues such as Whelan’s and Vicar Street.

Hypnotically rhythmic, the quiet simplicity of the guitar-driven melody and heartfelt lyrics are reminiscent of the likes of Hozier. Nnic’s vocals add an interesting layer to the track which captured the depth of emotions invested in the single. While the style has classic indie-rock stylings there are obvious RnB, Hip-Hop and Jazz influences which provide an exciting mix.

The album is slated for release on 28th May 2021 and this single will only leave you wanting more! Check out the song and J. Smith’s socials below