LOS ANGELES — Sam Smith’s soulful sound and heartbreaking songs resonated with fans — and his breakthrough was solidified when he took home three of the top four Grammy Awards on Sunday, though Beck earned a surprise win for album of the year.

“I want to thank the man who this record is about … Thank you so much for breaking my heart because I have four Grammys,” said the British singer, who won best new artist, song and record of the year for “Stay with Me” and best pop vocal album for “In the Lonely Hour.”

Smith, along with Beyonce, Pharrell and Ed Sheeran, lost album of the year Sunday to Beck’s “Morning Phase,” which also won best rock album. Smith said backstage he was surprised Beyonce didn’t win, but said Beck deserved to walk away with the trophy.

Kanye West, who famously interrupted Taylor Swift when she beat Beyonce at the MTV Video Music Awards, briefly walked onstage when Prince announced Beck’s name. Some in the audience seemed shocked, from Pharrell to Questlove to Beck himself.

Beck’s album debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200 albums chart and sold about 300,000 units. He last won a Grammy in 2000.

Pharrell, who was the top nominee with six along with Beyonce and Smith, walked away with three awards, as did Rosanne Cash. The rapper-singer-producer won best pop solo performance for a live version of “Happy,” released in 2013 as well as best music video for the song and urban contemporary album for “G I R L,” beating Beyonce.

“I am going to moonwalk my way off the stage right now,” said Pharrell, wearing a blazer and shorts.