Sam Smith’s “Pray”

I’m young and I’m foolish, I’ve made bad decisions
I block out the news, turn my back on religion
Don’t have no degree, I’m somewhat naïve
I’ve made it this far on my own
But lately, that shit ain’t been getting me higher
I lift up my head and world is on fire
There’s dread in my heart and fear in my bones
And I just don’t know what to say

Everyone prays in the end
Everyone prays in the end

The song is, literally, about prayer and praying, done gospel style; Sam Smith is English so it’s not old time Southern gospel, but it’s got 8-10 back-up gospel singers, and he’s soulful, so it qualifies.

These are hard times for Smith: His current single, “Too Good At Goodbyes,” was inspired by a recent and very emotional real life breakup and now here’s “Pray,” his next release, also intense and emotionally involving.  Expect to hear it on pop radio during the winter months.

Smith’s career took off just over three years ago with his debut album  “In The Lonely Hour” which earned the 2015 Grammy for “Best Pop Vocal Album” plus he won Grammies for “Best New Artist,” “Record Of The Year” and “Song Of The Year.”