To hear Malena Smith sing is to experience a voice distilled from every corner of the American songbook. With influences spanning pop, folk, soul, and jazz, she crafts a seamless, unmistakable sound that is uniquely her own.

The rising singer, songwriter, and storyteller is celebrated for her genre-blending style, expressive vocals, and introspective, thought-provoking lyrics. Based in her hometown of St. Louis, Missouri, Malena has shared stages with Michael Bublé, Brian Owens, the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, the Adam Maness Trio, and Clark Beckham (American Idol) with appearances across the U.S. and internationally in Japan. Malena recently starred in the film An Intimate Christmas, which aired on the PBS Nine Network. 

Malena’s debut original project, 27 in Maine, was released in November 2025, marking a bold exploration of coming-of-age in early adulthood. Including acclaimed songs like “Paralyzed” and “Maybe,” the EP dives into raw themes of sobriety, self-discovery, existential conflict, and the passing of time. Music City Melodies calls it “her journey through the struggles and triumphs of a young woman blazing a life and career path in a complicated world,” while The Arts STL hails it as “a singer-songwriter showcase… [crafting] a timeless sound perfect for supporting her warm, earnest vocals.” Grateful Web adds, “beyond its sonic beauty, the EP carries heartfelt stories at every corner… a project that chronicles a season of self-discovery, transformation, and artistic awakening.”

A classically-trained musician with a degree in music, Malena currently serves as the Contemporary Artist-in-Residence at the World Chess Hall of Fame in St. Louis, where she continues to expand the intersections of music and cultural dialogue in her hometown. In 2025, Malena was invited by The Recording Academy / GRAMMYs to be a voting member. Beyond music, leverages her platform to inspire others by sharing her alcohol-free lifestyle, partnering with wellness brands and via social media.