Tom Odell
Biography
Thomas Peter Odell, born on November 24, 1990, in Chichester, West Sussex, England, is a singer, songwriter, and musician. His father was an airline pilot and his mother a primary school teacher, and he has an older sister. Part of his childhood was spent in New Zealand due to his father's job. He began playing piano at the age of seven and was writing his own songs by thirteen, though he kept his songwriting a secret. Odell attended Seaford College and later the Brighton Institute of Modern Music.
Career Beginnings and Breakthrough
In 2012, Odell released his debut extended play, "Songs from Another Love". This release, particularly the title track, garnered significant attention. His raw, emotional piano-led style drew comparisons to artists like Jeff Buckley and Elton John. A pivotal moment in his early career was being discovered by singer Lily Allen, who was impressed by his stage presence. In early 2013, he won the prestigious BRITs Critics' Choice Award.
Debut Album and Rising Success
Odell's debut studio album, "Long Way Down," was released on June 24, 2013, and went straight to number one on the UK Albums Chart. The success of the album, which included the globally recognized single "Another Love," solidified his place in the music industry. In 2014, he was recognized with an Ivor Novello Award for Songwriter of the Year. The song "Another Love" experienced a resurgence in popularity years later, becoming a viral anthem on platforms like TikTok.
Subsequent Albums and Musical Evolution
Following his debut, Odell continued to release a series of successful albums, each showcasing his growth as an artist.
Wrong Crowd and Jubilee Road
His second album, "Wrong Crowd," was released in 2016, created after a period of reflection in New York and Los Angeles. This was followed by the more intimate and autobiographical "Jubilee Road" in 2018.
'monsters' and Independent Work
In 2021, Odell released his fourth album, "monsters," which explored darker themes and incorporated electronic pop elements, influenced by his struggles with anxiety. He then moved to become an independent artist, releasing "Best Day of My Life" in 2022, a stripped-back album focusing on piano and vocals. His latest album, "Black Friday," was released in 2024.
Musical Style and Influences
Tom Odell's music is characterized by its emotional intensity, piano-driven melodies, and heartfelt lyrics, often categorized as indie pop and folk-pop. He has cited a wide range of influences, including David Bowie, Jeff Buckley, Bob Dylan, and Elton John, with whom he has also toured. His live performances are known for their passion and intimate connection with the audience.