Grammy nominee Sombr has rejected claims that he benefited from nepotism, calling them “incredibly insane”. He said his parents’ careers in HIV/AIDS charity work did not help him secure a record deal or launch his music career, while stressing that he remains proud of their contributions.

His father, Andy Boose, previously worked at amfAR and now runs an events company involved with major charitable organisations, while his mother, Bennah Serfaty, is a senior public-relations director at amfAR. Sombr also discussed online body-shaming and explained that his song “My Body Isn’t Ready” aims to reassure young people who struggle with their appearance.