Griff, born Sarah Faith Griffiths on 21 January 2001 in Kings Langley, Hertfordshire, has quickly become one of the UK’s most exciting talents. From her early days of recording music in her bedroom to headlining stages across the world, Griff’s journey is as inspiring as her music. Known for her blend of heartfelt lyrics and powerful vocals, she’s steadily carving out her place in the music industry. But who is Griff, and how did she get to where she is today? Let’s take a deeper look.
Early Life: A Musical Awakening
Griff’s musical roots go back to her childhood, where she was first introduced to music through an iPod Shuffle loaded with Taylor Swift’s Fearless album. It was love at first listen. By the age of eight, she was hooked, teaching herself how to record and produce music on her older brother’s laptop, often using YouTube tutorials to perfect her craft. Her school life, however, was a bit different. At St Clement Danes School, Griff kept her musical aspirations under wraps, uncertain if her passion would lead to a career. She even told her teachers she was taking a gap year after finishing her A Levels, not revealing that she was embarking on a musical journey.
Despite her natural talent, Griff’s humble beginnings and desire to remain grounded shine through. Raised in a Christian household with foster children, she drew inspiration from her family’s experiences. In fact, her song Good Stuff reflects the emotional bond she formed with the children her family fostered, turning personal experiences into relatable music.
The Rise of Griff: From Bedroom Producer to Brit Award Winner
In 2019, Griff’s big break came when she signed with Warner Records. Her debut single, Mirror Talk, was released on 4 July 2019 and immediately garnered attention. BBC Radio 1’s Annie Mac featured the track, propelling Griff into the spotlight. The song, described by Billboard as “electrifying,” marked the beginning of what would become an impressive career. Griff’s powerful voice and vulnerable lyrics quickly became her signature sound.
Later that year, Griff released her debut extended play, The Mirror Talk, which included fan favourites like Paradise and Didn’t Break It Enough. But it was her 2021 Brit Award win that truly marked her as a rising star. At just 20 years old, Griff became one of the youngest winners of the coveted Rising Star Award, solidifying her place in the music industry. That same year, she released her debut mixtape, One Foot in Front of the Other, which was met with both critical acclaim and commercial success.
Griff’s Musical Evolution: From Mixtapes to Studio Albums
By 2024, Griff had firmly established herself as an artist to watch, with a rich catalogue of music that blends pop, R&B, and alternative influences. Her debut studio album, Vertigo, released on 12 July 2024, marks a new chapter in her evolving sound. The album showcases her growth as an artist, with introspective lyrics and expansive production that captures her journey to self-discovery and confidence.
Before Vertigo, Griff released a series of singles and collaborations that helped her build an international fan base. Notably, she teamed up with Coldplay’s Chris Martin for the track Astronaut in December 2023, which was a major milestone in her career. Another highlight was when Taylor Swift herself promoted Griff’s single Vertigo on Instagram, declaring that she “loved” the song. If that’s not an endorsement, we don’t know what is.
Griff’s Collaborations and Tour History: Sharing the Stage with Legends
Griff’s live performances are another testament to her talent. In 2022, she supported Dua Lipa on the European leg of the Future Nostalgia Tour, and in 2023, she opened for Coldplay during the Music of the Spheres World Tour. These high-profile collaborations helped Griff connect with a broader audience, while also showcasing her ability to hold her own on massive stages.
In 2024, Griff continued her successful touring streak, supporting Taylor Swift during the Eras Tour in London, a huge achievement for any artist. These experiences have allowed Griff to hone her performance skills, ensuring that she can captivate audiences worldwide.
What’s Next for Griff?
With her debut album out and a growing fan base, the future is looking incredibly bright for Griff. As she continues to evolve as an artist, we can expect more genre-defying music that combines her personal experiences with universal themes. Griff’s ability to connect with her audience through vulnerability and authenticity is part of what makes her such a beloved figure in the music scene.
Her upcoming projects, including collaborations with high-profile artists and more global tours, are sure to keep fans on the edge of their seats. Whether she’s performing on stage, releasing new music, or sharing her story through her lyrics, Griff is undoubtedly an artist to watch.
A Star in the Making
From her humble beginnings to winning prestigious awards and performing with music legends, Griff’s journey is a testament to what can happen when talent, hard work, and authenticity come together. As she continues to rise in the music world, it’s clear that Griff is not just a rising star—she’s a star who’s here to stay. So, whether you’re a long-time fan or just discovering her music, there’s no better time to get on board and experience the magic of Griff.
