Fearne talks to Sam Smith, one of Britain's best singers, about self-acceptance, pronouns, challenges of being a queer artist, and embracing the beauty of life's ups and downs. They also discuss overcoming insecurities, body dysmorphia, and the mind-body connection, including the negative impact of fame on mental health and coping mechanisms for OCD.
The importance of music in providing light relief during challenging times and the need for fun and escapism.
The significance of self-acceptance, using correct pronouns, and recognizing the challenges faced by trans individuals.
Deep dives
Sam Smith discusses the challenges of releasing an album during a pandemic
Sam Smith opens up about the difficulties of releasing their latest album, Love Goes, during a time that is completely opposite to the carefree and vibrant atmosphere in which the album was created. Despite the challenges, Smith believes that people still need fun and escapism, and expresses the importance of music in providing light relief during these trying times.
Sam Smith's journey of self-acceptance and coming out as non-binary
Sam Smith shares their personal journey of self-acceptance and coming out as non-binary. They discuss the realization that their gender identity is a lifelong feeling, and the importance of using the correct pronouns to be seen and recognized. Smith opens up about the challenges of asking others to change the way they speak and the difficulty of living in a world where trans individuals face discrimination and hardships.
Sam Smith's battle with body image issues
Sam Smith reveals their struggles with body image issues, rooted in their OCD tendencies. They discuss their fluctuating weight and the complexity of feeling comfortable with weight loss and weight gain due to the obsessive nature of OCD. Smith highlights the importance of accepting one's body and actively working on self-acceptance, emphasizing the need to let go of societal expectations and find joy and pleasure in one's own skin.
Sam Smith's journey of self-discovery and embracing fluidity
Sam Smith explores the concept of fluidity and the idea that human beings are constantly evolving and changing. They discuss the joy and freedom that comes from embracing one's true self and allowing oneself to express in ways that may not conform to societal norms. Smith encourages people to break free from restricting labels and expectations, and find pleasure in exploring the different facets of their identity.
Start your week with this powerful chat with one of Britain's best singers. In this in-depth interview, Fearne talks to Sam about self-acceptance, pronouns, and making big decisions while you're in the public eye.
Content warning: references to anorexia, body image, OCD
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