Spotify is moving artist storytelling beyond the playlist with Hometown, a new format combining intimate performances, exclusive films and community-led cultural projects.
The series launched with Jorja Smith, who returned to the West Midlands for a one-night-only performance at Walsall Arena, following a wider celebration of creativity in her hometown.
Smith performed for 600 invited listeners, with support from Wesley Joseph and a special appearance by The Blue Lights Choir. Her set featured material from her new album, What Are The Odds, alongside tracks including Blue Lights, Teenage Fantasy, Little Things, On My Mind and Be Honest.
The concert followed Made in Walsall, a community event created with The Blue Lights Choir. Local performers, artists, organisations and changemakers came together for live music and a participatory mural workshop led by Yasmin Agilah.
Smith’s performance was also filmed for an exclusive Spotify concert film premiering in September, extending the local event to a global streaming audience.
She is the first of three artists in the inaugural series. Nemzzz returns to Manchester on 12 September, followed by Beabadoobee in West London on 17 September.
Hometown connects Spotify’s streaming reach with live music and local culture. Its value will depend on whether that visibility lasts beyond the event.