LAUREN SPENCER SMITH MAKES HER DEBUT WITH MIRROR

BY LIAM GILLIN (HE/HIM)

Today marks the highly anticipated release of Lauren Spencer-Smith's debut album Mirror. From her humble beginnings on American Idol to her remarkable rise on social media, Smith now unveils her true self, initiating an extraordinary journey into this new chapter of her discography. Drawing inspiration from acclaimed artists like Olivia Rodrigo and JP Saxe, her album aims to explore the themes of observation and connection, leading listeners through the journey of falling out of love and finding it again.

Throughout her musical career, connection has always been a driving force for Lauren Spencer-Smith. With Mirror, she aspires to assure her fans that they are not alone and that everyone is united in this shared experience, including Smith herself. Another priority for the Canadian singer-songwriter was to validate her own emotions and convey that it is perfectly acceptable to be an emotional person. In a recent press conference hosted hosted by Universal Music Group’s 1824, Smith revealed that the songwriting and production process of the album was designed as a safe space from beginning to end.

The songwriting sessions were described as "relaxing," while the creation of Mirror itself was a collaborative effort, with the inner circle providing valuable and concise opinions on which songs would make the final album cut. From reflection to realization, producing her debut album allowed Lauren Spencer Smith to delve deep into her artistry.

Navigating the music industry at a young age has its challenges. However, she finds the experience exciting and fulfilling, embracing the opportunity to accomplish so much at a young age. The process of writing the album was a way for Smith to validate her own feelings and express her emotions as an individual unafraid to be vulnerable. International experiences have shaped Smith's perspective on her music's reception in different countries. She recalled the experience of flying to Los Angeles and collaborating with American artists in the beginning of her career, providing her with a broader understanding of how music resonates across borders.

With the release of Mirror, Lauren Spencer-Smith is set to solidify her position as a rising star in the music industry. This debut album not only showcases her exceptional vocal talent and songwriting skills but also reveals her vulnerability and relatability as an artist. By addressing universal themes of connection, self-expression, and self-discovery, Smith has created an album that resonates deeply with listeners.

Looking ahead to her upcoming tour, one venue that holds great significance for Smith is the iconic Queen Elizabeth Theatre in Vancouver. Performing at this prestigious venue is a cherished aspiration for the talented singer-songwriter. However, it was not all smooth sailing during the creation of the album. Smith reveals that two of the most challenging songs to write were "28" and "Bigger Person." These tracks hit particularly hard, requiring emotional depth and introspection.

Mirror stands as a testament to Smith's growth as an artist and her unwavering dedication to forging connections with her audience. As she embarks on this new chapter of her musical journey, it becomes increasingly clear that Lauren Spencer-Smith's star is destined to rise even higher, and her future in music looks incredibly promising.