Late Nite City is a genre-defying collective formed by George Smeddles, Danny Langan, and Josh Arise. Born out of the creative chaos of lockdown, the trio set out to break free from musical boundaries and explore the vast spectrum of their influences. With a shared love for everything from soul and R&B to house, disco, indie, and pop, Late Nite City was forged through a natural, organic process, a reflection of their true creative freedom.

At the core of Late Nite City is a simple ethos; if it feels right, it’s worth doing. No rules, no limits—just music that speaks to the soul.

Off the back of their latest release, the soulful and uplifting track, ‘Higher Ground,’ featuring the velvety and captivating vocals of Bianca Nieddu, we sat down with the trio for a chat about all things Late Nite City. Here’s how it went down…

WWD: Hey Late Nite City, How’re you today? What’s happening in your world at the moment?

Hi guys! We’re all good thanks. It’s all go in our world, heads down working on music, buttoning up release dates for the year and enjoying our latest release, it’s been getting a lot of love which is nice to see.

WWD: You’ve just released your new single ‘Higher Ground’ on your own Late Nites Imprint. Can you talk us through the release?

We made this track back in 2023 and we’ve been excited to get it out since. It’s our 4th release since July last year and it came together really naturally. We loved working with Bianca on this, she’s a superstar. It was released March 14th It’s available at all the usual spots for streaming and download. 

WWD: Who’s Involved? How did the production team come about?

Me (Josh Arise), Danny Langan & George Smeddles. We started working together during covid. Danny and George had been friends for a while and jumped in the studio. They wanted to add some live keys and sax to what they were working on so I came down and the workflow was there straight away. Me and Danny had been performing together for a few years with our residencies so we already knew each other well. We made a few tracks pretty quickly, it felt right so decided to run with it and 4/5 years down the line we’re releasing on our own label Late Nites and there’s plenty more to come. 

WWD: Where was the tune made? 

We made this one at The Barn! We can’t disclose the location but it’s a beautiful place to write and make music. It’s a warm and homely space and every time we’re there for a few days, maybe a week at a time something magical happens. I think most notable was having Bianca Nieddu sing and the main man Paolo (podiedrico) doing his thing on bass. 

WWD: Can you describe the connection between your music and your UK roots, and how they continue to influence your music today?

All 3 of us grew up in different parts of London. I’d say we have all been influenced by similar styles from soul, rnb, garage, disco, hip hop, house, jungle to pop. Some lean more so towards certain genres but as a collective we definitely take inspiration from all of the above. We’ve had 3 EP’s that are made for the clubs but next up will be more radio friendly and the plan is to release a whole host of music spanning different genres, It’s not necessarily done intentionally but for us if it feels right then let’s go with it. 

WWD: How has your sound evolved as you’ve grown as artists?

Our sound has definitely grown, like we said this all started during covid. There is a lot of music that might never see the light of day but it isn’t something we ever wanted to rush and now we’re finally at a point where we are happy with the sound and direction. As artists it takes time to get the music where it needs to be, but never forced, and to use our individual strengths for the best outcome of the project. 

WWD:  What’s a key piece of advice you would give to your younger self at the start of your journey?

Try to listen to as much music as you can. Inspiration can come from anywhere so always be on the lookout. Don’t force it. Don’t chase trends, embrace your own vibe!

WWD: What’s one thing you’ve learned about the music industry that surprised you?

The game has certainly changed in recent years with the rise of social media. The industry can be a minefield, you just have to really be on your shit if you want to get heard. There is so much involved it has to be taken seriously and treated as it is, a business. I think the surprising thing is just how much goes into releasing music, it’s a lot of work. You have to stay consistent on all fronts, it’s not just about the music anymore.

WWD: Who are some other producers we should be listening to right now?

2fox for sure! It’s Max Sinal and Renell Shaw and they are next level. A couple more of our favourites at the mo are Reel love Seeker, some amazing out soon from them and we love what Fletch is doing at the moment.

WWD: What’s next for you after ‘Higher Ground?’ Can you tell us about any upcoming projects or collaborations you have in the works? Are there any new directions or sounds you’re exploring in your music right now? 

Sure, we have something lined up with Daniel Davis who is part of the House Gospel Choir. It’s a funky good time track so we’re buzzing to get that out just before the summer and lots more on route throughout the summer and rest of the year. Both radio and club tracks so keep them peeled!

WWD: Finally, Which are the three records that you’ve been putting in your bag recently without hesitating?

WWD: Great choices! Thanks for the chat 🙂

‘Higher Ground’ is available here