Pop singer Sam Smith offered an insight into life as a non-binary star in the music industry, revealing that they are "scared every day".
Speaking during an interview with , the 27-year-old explained: “I’m loving it, I mean I’m scared every day. Being my feminine self in this world that we’re in, I mean the music industry can be a bit homophobic, a bit sexist at times.”
The comments followed Smith's turn at New York City's inaugural Jingle Bell Ball, where the singer made a notable departure from their traditional performance style - performing choreography with ex-Fifth Harmony member Normani while wearing a textured fairy-floss pink blouse and pant.
“Being feminine like this in the way I move and dance and am, it feels quite scary at times but is worth it,” Smith said, revealing they were nervous to release their - which has been viewed over 170 million times in the last four months.
“I felt very vulnerable doing it but I’m seeing now that’s the best space to be in. You feel joy quicker when being vulnerable like that,” they continued.
“But I’ve always been like that when in the club, with friends, with people that I feel safe with but showing it to the world is a different thing and I finally felt safe enough to do so.”
2019 has been a big year for Smith, who announced in September that they would prefer
“Today is a good day so here goes," they wrote on social media. "I’ve decided I am changing my pronouns to THEY/THEM. After a lifetime of being at war with my gender I’ve decided to embrace myself for who I am, inside and out."
They added: “I’m so excited and privileged to be surrounded by people that support me in this decision but I’ve been very nervous about announcing this because I care too much about what people think but f**k it!”
