The production of “Promises” was something of a surprise, having been publicized with only five days notice on Calvin’s and Sam’s social media accounts:

“Promises” is the third single from Harris as the lead artist in 2018, following “Nuh Ready Nuh Ready” and “One Kiss.” The song marks the first time that Harris and Smith have collaborated.

Smith tweeted that “it has always been a dream of mine to work with @calvinharris and I’m so proud and in love with this song. I had so much fun writing this tune with Calvin and @Jessiereyez and I hope you can hear that. Turn it up and let’s dance our way into tonight.”

The timing of the release came mid-way through Sam’s 2018 American tour. On stage at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, following their break-up with their boyfriend of nine months, Sam said to the audience;
“I know that everyone in this room right now is going through some sh-t. I know I’m going through some sh-t. And tonight I want all of us to just leave all of our worries and all of our heartache aside and let’s have some fun. Let’s sing as loud as we can.”

The song perhaps reflects their determination not be overcome by the grief evident in many of their songs and instead to relish what they love doing; singing and song-writing. It is a story about enjoyment of the moment; a positive take on other stories of casual sex in past Sam Smith songs, like “Stay with Me”, “Nirvana” and “Palace”.

The song peaked at #1 on the UK iTunes Chart just one day after its release.