Chess Smith is an alt-pop singer/songwriter based in Kent, and has been a commanding presence on the Kent music scene for over a decade, most recently as critically acclaimed power vocalist for Salvation Jayne... until 2020, when an abuser tried to dull her shine, and take her power. But they didn't succeed. Despite enduring a devastating nervous breakdown at the time, Chess has rebuilt herself, become a new Mum, and is back & fighting in spectacular style with her most personal, relatable work to date. 

Chess has a love for writing passionate, personal & positive songs about mental health and hitting back at toxic behaviour. With her soaring, emotive power vocals, engaging stage presence, and uncanny ability to write relatable songs with unforgettable hooks, Chess is ready to shake up the music scene, and she's not holding back. Her music is all about radical self-love, empowerment, and overcoming adversity – in a world full of competition, comparison, narcissism, and self-doubt, Chess' uplifting, anthemic songs are a welcome reminder that when we know our worth and love ourselves, we are unstoppable.

In 2020, Chess suffered a severe nervous breakdown as a result of narcissistic abuse, which forced her to take a long break from music. When she eventually started her recovery, realising that there was so little positive, uplifting messaging about surviving abuse & dealing with trauma, she chose to write music about her experiences in hopes it may help other people. 

In 2025, Chess released her solo EP, 'Saving Lilibet', to great critical acclaim, co-writing with multi-talented Kent producer Fuji Hideout. Throughout the year, she embarked on a series of headline shows at numerous esteemed Kent venues, including the Art Club in Dover, The Music Workshop in Folkestone, and a final spectacular EP launch show at The Penny Theatre in Canterbury. More recently, she has performed at The Quarterhouse in Folkestone, and is currently working with Screen South to produce the music video for her upcoming single, I'm Dead to You (And That's OK).

Described by promoter Andrew Kesby as "No question one [of] the best female artist(s) in Kent right now", Chess is making serious waves on the music scene, with an important message, and a powerful voice that will not be silenced.

Chess began her career working with rock bands in London and the Southeast, touring around the UK and experimenting with different genres along the way. Raised on ABBA & Led Zeppelin, with influence from artists like Alanis Morisette, Paper Route, Chappell Roan, Holly Humberstone & Maggie Rogers, Chess' sound is a refreshing amalgamation of diverse genres with an edgy alt-pop feel. She has worked with music legends across numerous genres, including Jocelyn Brown, Emily Dolan Davies (Drummer of The Darkness/ Cher Lloyd), Paul Davis (Drummer of Sugababes/ Jericho), Ashley Kinsley (keys player for Beverly Knight), and Steve Harris (Gary Numan’s guitarist). She toured extensively with Mooli, and fronted Salvation Jayne to wild acclaim, before parting ways in 2022.
 

Follow for more news and updates, or contact Chess via email, or on social media, using the links below.