Sam Smith, the British non-binary artist who rose to global fame through songs of longing and heartbreak, has arrived at a quieter and more sovereign place — not through triumph, but through the slow, costly work of surviving public life as a queer person. Their fifth album, Hazel Eyes, recorded in New York City where they relocated for love and sanctuary, marks a return to intimate songwriting and a first claim to the title of co-producer. In choosing smaller venues, emotional honesty, and a relationship over chart ambition, Smith is asking what art is actually for — and answering it, at last
Sam Smith finds peace in New York, love, and intimate songwriting on 'Hazel Eyes'
Smith experienced loneliness, depression, and trauma navigating fame as a young queer artist, particularly after coming out as non-binary and facing rightwing vilification.