Smashby Finds Love

Smashby, the bold indie out artist known for his genre-blending music and raw storytelling, is back with a deeply personal and empowering release. His new country pop single, "Love Myself (How I Used to Love You)," delves into themes of heartbreak, healing, and self-discovery, offering listeners a relatable journey towards the ultimate reward: self-love. Inspired by his first heartbreak, the song reflects Smashby’s realization that the energy he once poured into others would have been better spent on himself.

Reflecting on the emotions that resurfaced after learning his ex had gotten engaged, Smashby says, “It made me reflect on how much energy I wasted on him... after a few heartbreaks, I realized that energy would have been better spent loving on myself.” This insight forms the heart of "Love Myself (How I Used to Love You)," which carries a powerful message about self-acceptance and embracing imperfections, encouraging listeners to choose self-love over external validation.

The single is a fresh, uplifting country pop anthem with open-road vibes, a perfect fit for Smashby’s new musical direction. Though he laughs at the fact that he can’t drive, he says the song makes him feel as though he’s driving with the top down. Experimenting with genres has been a hallmark of his career, and this country pop direction is one Smashby now embraces confidently. “I’ve always had a love for country music and felt vocally and lyrically in sync with it,” he explains. “I just wasn’t sure if the world wanted country from me until the music started naturally coming out.”

Smashby has long used his music to explore personal themes such as love, heartbreak, family, and insecurities. With this new track, he continues to open up, likening his songwriting to keeping a personal diary. “The rawness and honesty are what make the music so good,” he admits, though it’s not always easy for him to share such vulnerable emotions.

Growing up queer wasn’t easy for Smashby, who faced bullying and teasing throughout his adolescence. However, coming out at 15 marked a turning point. While the initial reaction from his peers was overwhelming, he eventually embraced his identity, shedding insecurities and unlearning society’s harmful projections. Now, he’s proud of who he is and hopes to inspire others.

With "Love Myself (How I Used to Love You)," Smashby hopes his fans will feel empowered, reminding them that the most rewarding relationship is the one they have with themselves. Released via So Fierce Music and distributed by The Orchard, the single is now available on all major streaming platforms.

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