Sam Smith
English singer-songwriter acclaimed for soulful vocals and emotionally resonant ballads addressing love, heartbreak, and identity.
Sam Smith gained prominence in 2012 featuring on Disclosure's 'Latch.' Their debut album 'In the Lonely Hour' (2014) won four Grammy Awards, including Record and Song of the Year for 'Stay With Me.' Smith identifies as non-binary (they/them pronouns) and advocates for LGBTQ+ rights.
- Came out as gay in 2014 and as non-binary in 2019, publicly discussing gender identity struggles and prompting widespread media coverage.
- Underwent vocal cord surgery in 2015 after suffering a hemorrhage, risking their singing career; made a full recovery.
- Faced controversy in 2022-2023 for provocative performances and the 'Unholy' music video (featuring Kim Petras), criticized by religious groups but earning their first Billboard Hot 100 #1.
- Documented lifelong body image issues and depression in their music, notably in albums 'The Thrill of It All' (2017) and 'Gloria' (2023).