Jorja Smith, a multi-award-winning British singer-songwriter, has established herself as one of the most distinctive voices of her generation. First gaining recognition in 2016 with her breakout single Blue Lights, she has developed a unique sound blending R&B, soul, jazz and electronic influences. Throughout her career, she has collaborated with internationally acclaimed artists including Kendrick Lamar, Stormzy, Burna Boy, Drake and Tiakola. Following the success of her albums Lost & Found (2018) and Falling or Flying (2023), she released her third studio album, What Are The Odds, in 2026, a vibrant project drawing on UK garage, grime and house, marking a new chapter in her artistic evolution.
With a growing global presence, Jorja Smith continues to push musical boundaries and cement her status as a leading figure in British music. To commemorate 10 years since she released her debut single, Jorja Smith will be performing Blue Lights to open the Ballon d’Or™ ceremony.
French Montana is a three-time Grammy-nominated, Diamond-certified global hip-hop superstar whose career bridges cultures and continents. Born in Morocco and raised in the Bronx, he rose from New York’s underground rap scene to international prominence, building a catalogue of era-defining hits including the Diamond-certified Unforgettable featuring Swae Lee, the 5× Platinum No Stylist with Drake and the 6× Platinum Lockjaw with Kodak Black. Blending East Coast rap with pop sensibilities and international influences, French has collaborated with some of music’s biggest names, including Drake, The Weeknd, Cardi B, Post Malone, and Lil Wayne among others. From his influential Cocaine City DVD series to platinum-certified albums such as Excuse My French and Jungle Rules, French has built his career on an entrepreneurial spirit that continues to drive his success. His latest independent chapter alongside longtime collaborator Max B has delivered Ever Since U Left Me, which spent two consecutive weeks at No. 1 on Billboard’s Rhythmic Airplay chart and entered the Billboard Hot 100, reinforcing his ability to compete at the highest level on his own terms.
Beyond music, French is a dedicated humanitarian and Global Citizen’s first-ever rap ambassador. His work has helped raise millions to support healthcare, maternity services and education in Uganda. From headlining the Africa Cup of Nations opening ceremony in his native Morocco to championing communities around the world, French continues to use his platform to connect people through music, culture and a commitment to giving back.
*except in France, Armenia, Belarus, Bulgaria, Czechia, Georgia, Hungary, Norway, Romania, Russia, Slovakia, Spain, Türkiye and Central Asia
