Sam Smith has revealed that Madonna reached out to support them after the backlash surrounding their 2022 collaboration with Kim Petras, “Unholy”, describing the pop icon as a “mother” and saying her music is a “lifeline” for queer people.
Speaking to Zane Lowe on Apple Music 1, Smith, who uses they/them pronouns, recalled how Madonna contacted them after criticism of the song’s music video and subsequent live performances.
“Madonna is my mother. She’s just un-f******-real.”
Smith said Madonna was quick to offer support when the controversy surrounding “Unholy” intensified.
“She, the minute it happened, she made sure she got through to me. And she’s so aware of queer news and what’s happening in the community, [what’s happening] to the artists within the community.”
Sam Smith Says Madonna’s Music Is A Lifeline
Smith also spoke about Madonna’s wider influence on LGBTQ+ audiences and explained why the singer’s music has been particularly important to them.
“You feel that in her music. Her music is a lifeline to queer people and just all of the eras of her and her stamina and how she’s just always carried on and on and on. I just find it very inspiring.”
Smith added:
“I think a lot of queer people find [her music] inspiring. And it’s not just a comfort in my personal life; it’s a comfort in my music.”
Madonna has been a prominent supporter of LGBTQ+ rights and culture throughout her career, with her music and public advocacy making her an enduring figure within the community.
Madonna Supported Sam Smith During The Unholy Controversy
Released in 2022, “Unholy” became a major global hit for Smith and Petras, but its provocative music video and live performances also generated controversy.
Directed by Floria Sigismondi, the video depicts Smith and Petras performing in an erotic cabaret alongside burlesque dancers.
The pair faced further criticism after performing the song at the 2023 Grammy Awards. Some critics accused the performance of promoting satanic imagery, while Smith and Petras continued to defend the artistic direction of the song.
Madonna had already shown her support for the pair before that performance. She introduced Smith and Petras at the 2023 Grammys, where they won Best Pop Duo/Group Performance for “Unholy”.
Madonna Defended Smith And Petras At The Grammys
Introducing the pair at the ceremony, Madonna addressed the criticism surrounding artists who challenge expectations.
“Are you ready for a little controversy? Come on people, let’s make some noise. Y’all are going to sleep over here.”
She continued:
“So, here’s what I’ve learned after four decades in music – if they call you shocking, scandalous, troublesome, problematic, provocative or dangerous, you’re definitely on to something.”
Madonna also praised artists who take risks and face criticism for their work.
“I’m here to give thanks to all the rebels out there forging a new path and taking the heat for all of it. You guys need to know – all you troublemakers out there – you need to know that your fearlessness doesn’t go unnoticed. You are seen, you are heard; and most of all, you are appreciated.”
She then introduced Smith and Petras as Grammy Award winners who had moved beyond the controversy surrounding “Unholy”.
Sam Smith And Madonna Later Released Vulgar
Smith and Madonna’s relationship developed further after the 2023 Grammys, with the pair subsequently collaborating on “Vulgar”.
The song arrived after Smith had faced criticism over their stage outfits and performances, with the artists reclaiming the word through the collaboration.
“Vulgar” became their first official musical collaboration following Madonna’s public support for Smith and Petras.
Sam Smith Is Releasing Hazel Eyes
Smith’s comments come as they prepare to release their fifth studio album, Hazel Eyes, on Friday.
The record follows Smith’s 2023 album Gloria, which included collaborations with artists including Kim Petras, Jessie Reyez and Ed Sheeran.
Madonna, meanwhile, released her 15th studio album, Confessions II, last month.
