How Sam Fender stole 2021

The release of Sam Fender’s second album dominated the end of 2021 in the indie world, with tracks released from the album as early as July; just in time for festival season. Since then he has grabbed headlines with his down to earth song writing, heart felt lyrics and Springsteen-esque chords. So what made Sam Fender so popular in 2021?

In 2019, Fender released his debut album Hypersonic Missiles and he was fully established on the music scene. Reviews were glowing for the singer songwriter from North Shields with the Guardian describing it as “perfectly imperfect rock”. The album went to number one in the UK but did struggle across Europe. Not that this bothered Fender who was able to carry on doing what he loved doing by touring across the country to sellout crowd after sellout crowd.

Since the first album was released, Fender then took time out to write his second album which delved much deeper than his first album. His first album was much about growing up in his hometown area and how the people acted around him but the second album reaches into the mental health state of his relationships. He had reportedly written over 80 songs for the album but had to narrow it down to just 11 tracks (16 with the deluxe edition).

So in July Fender dropped his first single which would be the name of his album; Seventeen Going Under. It was an instant hit. Going to number 8 in the UK and number 1 in the Netherlands. This was just the start of this album taking over the soundwaves.

However, he was a busy man in the summer of 2021 as he played six UK festivals; as the UK enjoyed a brief break from the pandemic. The track Get You Down even has its own festival edit video that sums up his summer of 2021.

With five more songs released off the album in the proceeding months, Fender was played constantly on radio stations such as Radio 1, Radio 6 and Radio X. His Geordie tones were a big favourite in this scene so much so Radio X were the first to announce his huge gig at Finsbury Park in July 2022. 

Seventeen Going Under as a single and an album proved to be a success at the end of year awards. It was said people were taking up the latest offers just to bet on Fender’s album grabbing the top spot in the NME; which it did. The Guardian placed the album 11th whereas Popmatters placed it 3rd but 1st in The 15 Best Indie Rock Albums of 2021. 

Fans are also looking to the betting market with Fender looking to pick up two prizes at the Brits awards this year. With Fender up for Best Artist and Best Album the fans are wanting the best betting offers for new customers because they are confident he is going to win. Fender’s chances are lengthened due to the competition from Adele, Dave and Ed Sheeran. 

After improving on his first album, fans are excited to see what 2022 has to offer for Fender in terms of a new album which he is reportedly writing. He is also performing 25 times this year across the UK and Europe which includes supporting The Killers in London and Dublin.

It really is an exciting time to be Sam Fender. 

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