Ten years ago, Sam Smith’s debut album In the Lonely Hour changed the landscape of pop soul. Instead of writing about romantic euphoria, Smith chose to write about unrequited love—and the result was a raw, vulnerable masterpiece.

Released in May 2014, In the Lonely Hour is the debut studio album by English singer and songwriter

Sam Smith’s debut was a watershed moment for LGBTQ+ representation in pop, even if the pain expressed was universal. The album was famously written about a man Smith was in love with, but they didn't want to alienate listeners by using gendered pronouns. This decision allowed millions of people—regardless of their background—to project their own stories onto the songs.

If you’re looking to revisit the album that turned Sam Smith into a global powerhouse, here is a comprehensive look at the 10th-anniversary era of In the Lonely Hour .

Sam Smith's vocal performance on "The Lonely Hour" is nothing short of breathtaking. Their voice, capable of conveying a wide range of emotions, is both powerful and delicate, often within the same song. The album's lead single, "Stay With Me", features a haunting vocal performance that showcases Smith's impressive range and control.

Production is often sparse—featuring piano, strings, and acoustic guitar—to ensure Smith’s "impressive vocal range" and signature falsetto remain the focal point.