BBC Music has announced a world-exclusive hour-long entertainment show, Sam Smith At The BBC, set to air on BBC One in November.
Smith is set to release his as-yet-untitled sophomore album via Capitol around that time. Following her appointment as co-president of the label, Jo Charrington told Music Week about her expectations for the follow-up to In The Lonely Hour, which has global sales of 12 million.
Smith will perform new songs and material from his debut, accompanied by his band and the BBC Concert Orchestra. The singer will also talk about his career, music and his life to date with host Fearne Cotton.
The one-off 60-minute special from BBC Studios, filmed in front of a live studio audience, will include songs Smith has never previously performed before for a TV audience.
Bob Shennan, director of BBC Radio and Music, said: “Placing music centre stage on television remains one of BBC Music’s aims as supporting a range of burgeoning and established acts, and I’m very happy that we’re able to bring Sam to BBC One for what promises to be a very special show.”
Guy Freeman, editor, Special Events and Formats, BBC Studios, added: “I’m delighted that Sam is the next superstar in this series. These shows create a world in which artists like Sam feel incredibly comfortable and can simply have fun and reveal more of themselves to viewers than is ever normally possible. It promises to be a great hour in the company of an outstanding performer.”
Sam Smith At The BBC follows music shows Adele At The BBC and Michael Bublé At The BBC. Harry Styles At The BBC will be broadcast in November on BBC One.
BBC Worldwide is the international distributor for the Sam Smith special.
“I'm so honoured and thankful to the BBC for giving me this opportunity to showcase some of my new music from my album in this amazing, intimate setting,” said Smith. “I can't wait to sing some old songs and have a big old sing along with everyone.”
Fearne Cotton added: “As I’ve adored Sam’s voice since he performed on Radio 1’s Live Lounge in 2015, I jumped at the chance to present this show. I can’t wait to see him again, watch him perform new and old tracks and chat to him about his music and life.”
The programme was commissioned by Jan Younghusband, head of commissioning, Music Television.
Smith's comeback single Too Good At Goodbyes is currently on track for a fourth week at No.1.
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