The event seen in the record industry as music’s biggest night capped Smith’s breakout success since appearing as a guest vocalist on Disclosure’s Latch and winning last year’s Brits Critics Choice award. In the Lonely Hour, an ode to romantic devotion, has been a smash hit on both sides of the Atlantic.
Smith was favourite for best newcomer but faced stiff competition from Taylor Swift’s Shake It Off for best record, which recognises production, engineering and performance, and best song, which recognises songwriting.