Lauren Spencer Smith at Hammersmith Apollo

In the modern music climate, it is arguably more difficult than ever for artists to break through, rise to the top and connect with fanbases wider than tiny pockets of the chronically online community. Lauren Spencer Smith is a young vocalist who got her start ahead of the pack by making a name for herself on TikTok, though the atmosphere that permeated throughout the Eventim Apollo yesterday evening proved her superstar status transcends that of a social media surfer, as she stunned an audience of all ages that hung on to her every word.

Kicking off proceedings with a powerful collection of tracks, instantly showcasing her striking vocals and packing an emotional punch, Smith started as she meant to go on as she settled into the gig. Exuding undiluted confidence, she addressed her fans between songs with an awareness of her star quality and retaining an accompanying air of accessibility, creating a safe space for the crowd to wholly feel and embrace the sentiment of ballads such as Bridesmaid and Parallel Universe. Her production was simple on the whole, piquing interest with a few different spots to stop on stage as well as a cleverly-designed “emotional bus stop” and matching payphone, which tied the set together through stylised voice note interludes from Smith’s friends, family, and past self. A handful of those friends even made their own cameos on the night, with Anne Marie, Alexander Stewart, and Mimi Webb all joining the artist on stage for an assortment of her own and their own repertoire, setting the crowd on fire with each new arrival.

Overwhelmingly, the audience sat in the palm of Smith’s hand, reciting every lyric with a passion and affliction almost equal to her own. Supporting their idol through her most poignant moments with reverberant cheers during Small, Looking Up and her blockbuster hit Fingers Crossed, there were tears and embraces throughout the room, with all united by admiration for and relatability to one of Gen Z’s most impressive live vocalists. Finding new ways to keep slow songs fresh, including throwing in an almighty Lady Gaga cover during the week she took over the O2 Arena, Lauren Spencer Smith is a generational talent with an undeniable gift that takes its form not only in her remarkable voice but a genuine consideration for her fans. Halting the show at a number of instances as the set came to a close to check on those standing, she ensured every individual in the room felt truly cared for whilst simultaneously delivering the performance of a distinguished and assured headliner, destined and ready for even bigger stages. 

Tallulah Allen
Photos: LA Benoit

For further information and future events, visit Lauren Spencer Smith’s website here.

Watch the video for Thick Skin here: