
About
Sam Fender (born Samuel Thomas Fender on 25 April 1994) is an English singer-songwriter who was named one of the BBC's Sound of 2018 alongside other emerging artists including Sigrid, Lewis Capaldi, and Khalid. He won the Brit Awards Critics’ Choice for 2019. Fender was a teenager when he began performing in pubs throughout North Shields, England. He was spotted in a pub by Ben Howard's manager, Owain Davies, who then got him to support for Willy Mason. Read more on Last.fm
Genres
- modern rock
- north east england indie
Frequently Asked Questions
- When did Sam Fender come out?
- Sam Fender emerged onto the UK music scene in the early 2010s but began gaining mainstream attention around 2017 with the release of his debut single "Play God." He truly broke out in 2018 after being named a recipient of the Brit Awards Critics' Choice. His debut album, "Hypersonic Missiles," was released in September 2019 and shot straight to number one on the UK Albums Chart. This milestone solidified his status as one of the most promising new talents in British rock and pop. Sam Fender's rise was marked by his distinctive blend of socially conscious lyrics and energetic guitar-driven sound. Since then, he has built a loyal fan base with his relatable songwriting and electrifying live performances, making him a leading figure in the modern British rock scene.
- What did Sam Fender do before he was famous?
- Before Sam Fender became a household name, he worked a variety of jobs to support his musical ambitions. Raised in North Shields, a coastal town in northeastern England, Fender worked as a bartender at the Low Lights Tavern, a local pub. His time behind the bar helped shape his songwriting, as he often drew inspiration from the people he met and the stories he heard. In his late teens, he began performing in small venues, both solo and with local bands, gradually building his reputation. Fender's early years were marked by relentless gigging and self-promotion, which eventually caught the attention of industry professionals and led to his first record deal. His working-class background and perseverance deeply influence the authenticity and relatability of his music.
- What was Sam Fender's biggest hit?
- Sam Fender's biggest hit to date is "Seventeen Going Under," the title track from his critically acclaimed second album released in 2021. The single resonated with a wide audience due to its raw, emotionally charged lyricism and anthemic rock arrangement. "Seventeen Going Under" quickly climbed the UK Singles Chart, peaking at number three, and earned widespread acclaim for its honest depiction of youth, struggle, and resilience. The song's introspective storytelling and powerful sound have made it a festival favorite and a defining anthem of Fender's career. Its success further cemented Sam Fender's reputation as a voice for his generation and a standout artist in the indie rock and pop genres.
- Why is Sam Fender so famous?
- Sam Fender is so famous because of his unique combination of heartfelt, socially conscious songwriting and dynamic rock sound. Drawing comparisons to legends like Bruce Springsteen, Fender stands out for his ability to tackle pressing societal issues
- What was Sam Fender diagnosed with?
- Sam Fender has been open about his struggles with mental health and was diagnosed with a rare, serious illness called "compromised immune system" in his late teens, which was later identified as a viral infection that affected his ability to work and perform. He has also spoken about battling anxiety and depression, which have influenced much of his songwriting and public advocacy. Fender's willingness to discuss these challenges has resonated with fans and helped destigmatize mental health issues, especially among young men. His experiences have inspired tracks such as "Dead Boys," which addresses male suicide and mental health, further establishing him as an artist unafraid to confront difficult topics both in his music and in public discourse.