Quick Read
- Myles Smith released his new single ‘Drive Safe’ with Niall Horan on February 11, 2026.
- The collaboration marks the first official track between Smith and Horan.
- The duo performed ‘Drive Safe’ live for the first time in a surprise London pub gig.
- Smith won the Ivor Novello Award and Rolling Stone UK Breakthrough Award in 2025.
- He is scheduled to support Ed Sheeran on his US tour this summer and perform at Brits Week in Nottingham on February 24.
LONDON (Azat TV) – British singer-songwriter Myles Smith has launched into 2026 with significant momentum, releasing his highly anticipated single, ‘Drive Safe,’ a collaborative effort with global music icon Niall Horan. The track, unveiled on February 11, marks a pivotal moment for Smith, building on the success of his 2024 hits ‘Stargazing’ and ‘Nice to Meet You.’ The release was swiftly followed by an unannounced live performance in a London pub, captivating fans and signaling Smith’s continued ascent in the music industry.
Myles Smith and Niall Horan Forge ‘Drive Safe’ Collaboration
The new single, ‘Drive Safe,’ is the first official collaboration between Smith and Horan, a partnership that fans have eagerly awaited. Co-written by both artists, the track seamlessly blends Smith’s emotionally resonant songwriting with Horan’s acclaimed melodic flair, creating an intimate piece rooted in sincere storytelling. Niall Horan expressed his admiration, stating, “I’ve been such a big fan of Myles for a while now and I’m so happy we got to work on this song together. Can’t wait for you to hear it.” Smith echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the genuine nature of their collaboration: “Collaborations only really matter to me when they come from something real, and working with Niall genuinely did. He’s got this effortless instinct for melody, but beyond that he’s a good friend who very quickly became one of my closest. Our friendship shaped the song, and hopefully you can feel it in every line.”
The central theme of ‘Drive Safe’ explores life’s unpredictable challenges, highlighting the importance of a strong support system. The song balances optimism with realism, reframing uncertainty as an inherent part of the human journey. Its poignant refrain, “Life is a road, don’t know what’s along the way, so drive safe,” serves as a comforting reminder that human connections can ease the burdens of life’s obstacles. Musically, the track radiates warmth and an uplifting spirit. Smith continues to refine his signature storytelling style, enhancing the song with bright acoustic textures and a clean, understated production that allows both artists’ voices to shine, with Horan’s contributions providing an expansive, reassuring lift.
Surprise London Debut for ‘Drive Safe’
Just days after its release, Smith and Horan gave ‘Drive Safe’ its live debut during a surprise performance at a London pub. The impromptu gig, which also featured an outdoor set in front of the bar, drew a crowd and generated significant buzz. While seemingly spontaneous, behind-the-scenes footage posted by the venue revealed a professional setup, including cameramen, a teleprompter, and lighting, indicating a carefully planned event. The bar’s Instagram post playfully apologized to “the regulars who couldn’t get their standard Monday night pint” due to the “cheeky surprise gig,” as reported by Lakes Media Network.
Myles Smith’s Momentum Continues to Build
The release of ‘Drive Safe’ comes at a momentous time for Myles Smith, who has experienced substantial growth over the past year. In 2025, he performed to over 100,000 fans in sold-out shows across the UK, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and North America, including an impressive performance at Glastonbury. His accolades from the past year include winning the prestigious Ivor Novello Award for Most Performed Work and the Rolling Stone UK Breakthrough Award. Adding to his burgeoning career, Smith is set to provide main support for Ed Sheeran on his US tour this summer, solidifying his status as a rising star in the music industry, according to SSBCrack.
Looking ahead, Smith is also scheduled to perform as part of Brits Week 2026, with a gig at the Rescue Rooms in Nottingham on February 24, as noted by BBC News. This appearance continues his tradition of engaging with fans across various venues and platforms, further cementing his presence in the contemporary music scene. The collaborative single ‘Drive Safe’ serves as a strong follow-up to his previous hit ‘Stay (If You Wanna Dance),’ demonstrating his consistent output and artistic evolution.
The strategic release of ‘Drive Safe’ with Niall Horan, combined with its unique, high-visibility live debut, underscores Myles Smith’s calculated approach to leveraging his growing influence. By collaborating with an established artist and orchestrating engaging, albeit ‘surprise,’ performances, Smith is not only expanding his artistic reach but also masterfully cultivating a narrative of authenticity and connection that resonates deeply with a global audience, positioning him for continued success in 2026 and beyond.