After Myles Smith’s visit to Luton this week to celebrate the release of his debut album, we got the chance to ask him some questions about how much his hometown means to him.
Us: In other interviews you’ve done, you mention that Luton has shaped you. What’s the one memory or thing about Luton that shaped you most as an artist?
Myles: Growing up in Luton taught me resilience. It’s a place full of hardworking people who care deeply about each other and find joy even when things aren’t always easy. Seeing that growing up gave me a lot of perspective and made me want to write songs that feel honest and human.
When you’re away touring, what’s the ‘Luton feeling’ or thing you miss the most?
The people. Luton has this warmth and sense of community that you don’t always appreciate until you’re away from it. There’s a real honesty to the place. It always feels like home.
You’ve played huge stages worldwide, but what’s different about stepping out in front of a Luton crowd?
There’s nowhere to hide. These are people who know where you come from, who watched your journey from the beginning. You don’t feel like an artist playing a show; you feel like someone’s son, brother, mate or neighbour. It’s incredibly special.
Do you remember where you were when you found out Big Weekend was coming to Luton and you were on the lineup?
I remember just feeling disbelief and excitement. To have one of the biggest events in British music come to the town that raised me, and then to be part of it, felt like something that shouldn’t really happen. It was a real full-circle moment.
That Introducing Stage crowd was huge. What went through your mind when you saw hundreds of Lutonians showing up for you?
I felt incredibly grateful. There was a moment where I just looked out and thought, “These are my people.” To feel that level of support from home is something I’ll never take for granted.
Not everyone gets their big break at home. What did that moment mean to you personally?
It meant everything. A lot of people spend years trying to make their hometown proud. To have a moment like that, in front of people who understand exactly where you’ve come from, is something I’ll carry with me forever.
Where’s your go-to spot in Luton to unwind or celebrate when you’re back home?
Honestly, I love just driving around. Going past places I grew up around, seeing old schools and familiar streets. It’s a reminder of who I am and where this all started.
You’re performing here during Luton’s 150th anniversary year. What does it mean to be part of such a milestone moment for the town you grew up in?
It’s a huge honour. Luton made me who I am. To be able to celebrate a place that has given me so much, during such an important year in its history, is incredibly special. I hope people from Luton see my story and feel proud because, in a lot of ways, this journey belongs to all of us.
‘My Mess, My Heart, My Life’, the debut album by our very own Myles Smith, is out now on CD, vinyl, and all streaming platforms.
About the Author
Jemma Candy
Jemma is a proud Lutonian with a passion for celebrating the town’s vibrant diversity and strong community spirit. As a Marketing Manager with a degree in Mass Communications, she’s committed to highlighting the positive stories in Luton. Whether uncovering hidden gems or discovering new favourite cafés, Jemma loves exploring all that her hometown has to offer.