Sam Fender is an English singer, songwriter, and musician known for his rock and indie rock sound, distinctive tenor voice, and emotionally resonant songwriting focusing on social and personal themes. After being discovered at age 18 by Ben Howard’s manager, Owain Davies, while performing at Low Lights Tavern, Sam Fender independently released his debut single, ‘Play God,’ in March 2017, which premiered on BBC Radio 1. He then toured extensively throughout 2017, supporting acts such as Bear’s Den, Declan McKenna, and Michael Kiwanuka. Fender signed with Polydor Records in June 2018, releasing his critically acclaimed debut EP, ‘Dead Boys,’ in November 2018, which garnered mainstream attention for its candid exploration of male suicide.
This period of success culminated in him winning the Brit Award for British Rock/Alternative Act in 2022, and ‘Seventeen Going Under’ was further honored with the Ivor Novello Award for Best Song Musically and Lyrically the same year. In a testament to his growing live appeal, Fender headlined Finsbury Park in 2022, playing to an impressive audience of 45,000 people. Continuing his meteoric rise, Sam Fender headlined two sold-out shows at the iconic St James’ Park stadium in 2023. In 2024, he was featured on Noah Kahan’s popular song ‘Homesick,’ expanding his reach to a global audience.
In 2021, he presented the compelling documentary ‘Lindisfarne’s Geordie Genius: The Alan Hull Story.’ Actively engaged in philanthropy, Fender consistently uses his platform to raise awareness and funds for vital causes such as homelessness, and is a passionate supporter of grassroots music venues across the UK.