Behind the Music: Scott T. Smith Embodies the Soul of Louisville’s Vibrant Rhythms
Written by Marc Schneider on March 5, 2024
Scott T. Smith is the true definition of a “Soul Man.” Coupled with a unique infusion of his musical influences, his love for his upbringing in Kentucky emanates through his artistry. These characteristics have been most evident throughout his original songs such as “Peacemaker” and “Lift Up Louisville.” However, it takes a versatile spirit to capture the heart of a genre such as Folk music and make it their own which he recollects in conversation with EBONY.
Raised in West Virginia, Scott draws musical inspiration from his mother’s small-town roots in Maryland and his father’s upbringing in Queens, New York. The combination of their own experiences were passed down and has since been reflected in how Scott goes about crafting his distinctive sound. “Saturday mornings were filled with golden oldies rolling through the house, courtesy of my dad,” he reminisces. “It was how I woke up as a kid, and still do. I’d open my eyes at 10:10 am, greeted by my dad’s music filling the house.”
Nevertheless, it has been his connection to Louisville that’s left the deepest impression on his path as an artist. “The mountains I was raised in were everywhere. I’ve often told people you couldn’t see far enough past them to make big dreams. But when I left those hills, I found Louisville. The area itself has always been an incubator for people. When I came here in 2016, the city was receptive and ready for what was coming next. I own a house here, have family based here and I am a member of the community beyond my music. Louisville is my home,” reflects Scott.
Scott continues to defy conventions, as he explores genres historically pioneered by Black artists. His lyrics reverberate with a vocal range that effortlessly traverses rhythm, blues, and southern gospel, culminating in a fusion uniquely his own. This amalgamation of styles gives birth to a genre he dubs “folk-n-blues,” showcasing his innovative approach to music and his commitment to pushing boundaries. To put it plainly, the connection to Folk music is profound.
Scott T. Smith recalls moments of constructive criticism from his father, who encouraged him to connect deeply with his audience through storytelling during performances. He shares how his father would offer feedback on his stage presence, emphasizing the importance of conveying the narrative of each song clearly. “My dad used to challenge me, questioning why I’d step on stage and sing when the words weren’t audible,” Scott remembers fondly. “But amidst the critique, he acknowledged the energy and remarkable notes I hit. It wasn’t about ego; it was about delivering a story. That’s the essence of folk music—it begins and ends with a tale. Crafting that narrative throughout a song requires effort, much like in country music where each melody is attached to relatable moments, whether somber or longing. Yet with folk music, the storytelling flows naturally, effortlessly captivating listeners. It’s about understanding the audience’s readiness to immerse themselves in the narrative. This authenticity is why I remain rooted in this genre—it allows me to convey my message genuinely, resonating with the songs that manifest within me.”
Being involved with EBONY’s Sensory Soiree fills Scott with anticipation, particularly with the opportunity to represent on behalf of Louisville. This collaboration ignites his excitement, offering him the opportunity to be part of something truly remarkable and to showcase his talents to a wider audience. “I’m proud to be one of the things that Louisville wants to showcase and so this event next month, I mean for me it doesn’t go much further than the word EBONY. As a little black boy growing up, EBONY was my connection to Black culture. When you grow up away from larger communities, you don’t always think about the many ways that Black people can exist and thrive and that’s what the magazine did for me,” shared Scott. “You start to think that there’s no place for you at the table with a whole bunch of
extremely talented, well-established Black people. With this being a part of my personal journey, it feels like the first step in the direction that I’ve had in my heart for a long time.”
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