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Sam Smith Reveals Engagement & How Romance Inspired Their New Album
Sam Smith has revealed they are engaged to fashion designer Christian Cowan, sharing the news in a New York Times interview alongside details about their forthcoming fifth studio album, Hazel Eyes. The Grammy-winning singer disclosed the engagement just days after releasing the single "Oh Mother" featuring The TwoCity Chorus, explaining that much of the new record was shaped by their relationship with Cowan, including the album's title, inspired by his hazel-coloured eyes.
Hazel Eyes is due for release on 21 August via Capitol Records, following 2023's Gloria, which reached number seven on the Billboard 200 and produced the chart-topping hit "Unholy" with Kim Petras. Smith said the track "Everlasting Love" was begun the night before their first date with Cowan and completed as the relationship developed, and described making the album outside the traditional pop system with collaborators including Feist. They also spoke about embracing emotional contradictions in happiness and about the significance of writing openly queer love songs amid ongoing challenges to LGBTQ+ rights.
In short
- Sam Smith is engaged to designer Christian Cowan
- New album Hazel Eyes inspired by the relationship, out 21 August
- Smith reflects on love, happiness and writing queer love songs
Explained simply
Sam Smith is a British pop singer and multiple Grammy Award winner. Their 2023 album Gloria reached number seven on the Billboard 200 chart and included the major hit single "Unholy", establishing them as one of the most commercially successful contemporary pop artists.
New album announcements from major recording artists typically attract significant public interest from both dedicated fans and broader music audiences. Smith has been open about drawing inspiration from personal experiences when creating music, something that many listeners find compelling in contemporary pop.
As a prominent LGBTQ+ artist in the mainstream music industry, Smith's work and public statements carry particular relevance in ongoing conversations about representation. The artist's approach to songwriting, which often draws on personal experiences and identity, has engaged audiences throughout their career.
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