Words by Shanice Stephanie
Singer Sam Smith has never been shy about his sexuality but in a recent interview with the London Times he labeled himself as a “gender non binary.” When asked in the interview whether he identified as a cisgender male, (which means that your personal identity and gender corresponds with your birth sex) Sam responded with “No”. He added, “I don’t know what the title would be, but I feel just as much woman as I am man.” Smith opened up about gender identity and his love for women’s clothing; he says that he’s always blurred traditional gender roles, from how he presents his gender to how he feels inside.
People don’t know this, but when I was 17, I remember becoming obsessed with Boy George and Marilyn Monroe, and all that. There was one moment in my life where I didn’t own a piece of male clothing, really, I would wear full make up every day at school- eyelashes, leggings with Doc Martens and huge fur coats, for two and a half years.
The singer also expressed his concern with not wanting his sexuality and gender identity to overshadow his career.
I remember, at the beginning of my career, being called a ‘gay singer’, and I didn’t want that. I wanted to be seen as a singer first, before people spoke about my private life. And now it’s changed, I’ve changed. I think that maybe I don’t mind that title.
Sam Smith’s transparency is refreshing. Hopefully this inspires people everywhere to be open and honest with themselves about themselves.
