Brits Smith and Sheeran to perform in Manila next year

Sam Smith

Joining next year’s influx of young, popular British acts to the Philippines is the blue-eyed soul singer-songwriter Sam Smith, who recently earned six nominations for the 2015 Grammy Awards. He will take the stage at SM Mall of Asia Arena (MOA Arena) on May 10 as part of his world tour, “In the Lonely Hour,” in support of his debut album of the same title.

Smith, known for his rich-sounding croon and wide vocal range, leads the pack of Grammy nominees together with pop-R&B superstar Beyoncé, who likewise received six nods.

“6!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!” the recording artist posted on his Twitter account, shortly after the complete list of nominees was released on Saturday morning (Manila time).

Ed Sheeran

The 22-year-old Londoner’s record “In the Lonely Hour” is up for album of the year and best pop vocal album, while his hit single, “Stay with Me,” is in contention for best pop solo performance, record of the year and song of the year. He will battle it out with Iggy Azalea, Bastille, Brandy Clark and Haim for the best new artist plum.

Smith isn’t the only Grammy-nominated British artist coming to the Philippines next year. The mild-mannered, folk-pop musician Ed Sheeran, who’s gunning for the album of the year and best pop vocal album trophies, will perform on March 12, also at MOA Arena.

“Grammy nom[inations], and my album ‘Multiply’ has sold three million [copies] worldwide as of this morning. Good start to the day. Thanks for all the support and love,” he posted on his Twitter account. “Album of the Year nomination! Holy s***balls!” Sheeran said in another tweet.

Other British acts bound for Manila in 2015—via show promoter of Music Management Inc.—are indie rock group The 1975 (Jan. 24, MOA Arena); teen pop band The Vamps (Feb. 1, MOA Arena); and the boy band One Direction (March 21 and 22, MOA Concert Grounds).

For tickets visit www.mmilive.com or www.smtickets.com; or call 470-2222.