Sam Smith: 17 Surprising Facts That Prove They're a Total Icon

Sam Smith's Life Behind the Mic: 17 Things You'll Love to Know 🎤✨

Sam Smith isn’t just an artist—they’re an entire era. Whether you’ve been vibing to Stay With Me since 2014 or you can’t stop replaying Unholy on TikTok, there’s no denying that Sam’s music hits different. But behind the powerhouse vocals and emotional lyrics is a person with an inspiring story, relatable quirks, and so much charisma.

From their humble beginnings in England to becoming a global icon with four Grammys, an Oscar, and a Golden Globe under their belt, Sam has made an indelible mark on the music world. And let’s not forget their fearless advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and body positivity—Sam is breaking barriers, one hit song at a time.

But who is Sam beyond the music? Turns out, their life is just as fascinating as their discography. From serenading royalty to crushing viral TikTok hits, and even whipping up recipes in the kitchen, Sam’s journey is filled with fun, surprising moments. Let’s dive into 17 facts about Sam Smith that will make you fall even more in love with this one-of-a-kind icon.

1. They Got Their Big Break With a Disclosure Collab

Before Sam Smith became the global superstar we know today, they got their first taste of fame through a collaboration with the electronic music duo Disclosure. Their soulful vocals on the 2012 hit Latch turned heads and helped the track become a club and radio favorite. The combination of Sam’s emotional delivery and Disclosure’s infectious beat made the song an instant classic. It introduced the world to Sam’s powerhouse voice and gave them a platform to showcase their talent in a way that stood out in the crowded music industry.

After the success of Latch, Sam started gaining attention from major industry players and fans alike. The song’s popularity opened the door to even bigger opportunities, including collaborations with other artists and the chance to record their debut album. It’s fascinating to think that a feature on an electronic track paved the way for Sam to take the music world by storm. From there, their career skyrocketed, proving that sometimes the most unexpected opportunities lead to the biggest breakthroughs.

2. They Have an Insane Number of Awards

Sam Smith’s talent has been recognized with an impressive collection of awards that many artists can only dream of. Over their career, they’ve won four Grammys, including Best New Artist and Record of the Year for Stay With Me, as well as three Brit Awards, a Billboard Music Award, a Golden Globe, and even an Oscar. Their Academy Award came in 2016 for the James Bond theme Writing’s on the Wall from the movie Spectre, making them the first openly non-binary artist to win in this category.

Sam’s ability to win accolades across such a wide range of platforms speaks to their versatility as an artist. From emotional ballads to upbeat anthems, they’ve proven time and time again that their music resonates on a global scale. Each award is a testament to their hard work, authenticity, and incredible vocal talent. These achievements solidify their place as one of the most celebrated artists of their generation, and they continue to inspire fans and other musicians alike.

3. Their Journey to Body Positivity Is Inspiring

Sam Smith has always been open about their struggles with body image, a topic that resonates deeply with their fans. Growing up, they dealt with insecurities and societal pressure around appearance, something many people can relate to. Over the years, Sam has worked hard to embrace self-love and redefine what confidence means to them.

In recent years, Sam has been sharing their journey on social media, often posting empowering messages and photos that celebrate their body. Whether it’s a shirtless selfie or a heartfelt caption about self-acceptance, they’ve become a vocal advocate for body positivity and mental health. By being transparent about their own struggles, they’ve given fans permission to embrace their own bodies and reject unrealistic beauty standards.

Sam’s body-positive messages go beyond just photos—they also encourage conversations about representation in the media and music industry. Their journey is a reminder that confidence is a process, not a destination, and their openness has inspired many to celebrate themselves just as they are.

4. They Came Out as Non-Binary in 2019

In 2019, Sam Smith publicly came out as non-binary and announced that they use they/them pronouns. This was a pivotal moment for Sam, as they shared how they’ve always felt outside the traditional definitions of male and female. Their coming out was met with widespread support from fans and the LGBTQ+ community, as well as admiration for their bravery in living their truth in such a public way.

Sam’s announcement also sparked larger conversations about gender identity and inclusivity, especially within the music industry. They’ve since used their platform to advocate for greater representation and understanding of non-binary and gender-diverse individuals. By sharing their story, Sam has helped normalize the idea that gender is a spectrum and that people should have the freedom to define their identities on their own terms.

For Sam, embracing their non-binary identity has been a freeing and empowering journey. They’ve spoken openly about how it has allowed them to feel more authentic in both their personal life and career. This step was a huge milestone, not just for Sam, but for countless others who feel seen and represented because of their courage.

5. Their Middle Name Is Frederick

Yep, Sam Smith’s full name is Samuel Frederick Smith, and while we all know them as simply “Sam,” their middle name adds a touch of charm to their already iconic persona. Born in London in 1992, Sam grew up in a supportive family that nurtured their love for music from an early age.

“Frederick” feels fittingly classic for an artist whose voice has been described as timeless. While they’ve never made a big deal about their middle name, it’s a fun fact that adds a layer of personality to the star. It’s also worth noting that Sam’s name reflects their British roots and upbringing, which have greatly influenced their artistry.

Little details like this remind us that even larger-than-life artists like Sam have grounding, relatable aspects to their identity. And let’s be real, “Frederick” just has a sophisticated ring to it.

6. They Were Obsessed With Adele Growing Up

Sam Smith has always been vocal about their love for Adele, and honestly, same. Before their own rise to fame, Sam was a full-blown Adele stan, admiring her powerhouse vocals and deeply emotional lyrics. They’ve often said in interviews that Adele’s music inspired them to embrace their own vulnerability and storytelling style. Sam was particularly in awe of her raw, heartfelt performances and her ability to connect with audiences on such a personal level.

When Sam finally met Adele after breaking into the industry, they admitted to being completely starstruck, which is such a relatable moment for anyone meeting their idol. Over the years, fans have drawn parallels between the two artists, noting their shared ability to make people ugly cry with beautifully sad ballads.

Sam’s admiration for Adele shines through in their music, with songs like Stay With Me and Too Good at Goodbyes carrying that same heart-wrenching, soul-baring energy. It’s amazing to see how one icon inspired another to find their voice and connect with the world.

7. They Can Sing in Italian

Sam Smith isn’t just a pop and soul powerhouse—they’ve got opera chops, too. Back in 2014, they performed O Mio Babbino Caro, an iconic Italian aria, during a radio interview. And let’s just say, it was jaw-dropping. Their ability to deliver such a complex and emotional performance in a completely different language proved that their talent knows no bounds.

The clip went viral among fans who were stunned to see this other side of Sam’s artistry. It showed that their voice is not just versatile but truly one of a kind, capable of adapting to multiple genres and styles. Sam’s operatic performance also highlights their classical training, something that’s often overlooked when people focus solely on their chart-topping hits.

This unexpected skill is just another reason why Sam stands out in a crowded music industry. Whether belting out a Bond theme or serenading us in Italian, they continually remind us that their voice is in a league of its own.

8. They've Struggled With Fame

Even though Sam Smith is one of the most recognizable voices in the world, they’ve admitted that the pressures of fame have been tough to navigate. In interviews, Sam has been candid about how overwhelming it can be to live in the spotlight, especially as someone who values their privacy and personal life.

Over the years, they’ve taken breaks from social media and public appearances to focus on their mental health, reminding fans of the importance of self-care. Sam has spoken about the anxiety and self-doubt that can come with constant scrutiny, and their openness about these struggles has only made them more relatable to their audience.

Despite the challenges, Sam has found ways to stay grounded by surrounding themselves with a strong support system of family and close friends. Their honesty about the ups and downs of fame has resonated with fans, proving that even superstars deal with the same struggles as the rest of us.

9. They Had a Super Bowl Halftime Moment—Sort Of

Sam Smith hasn’t headlined the Super Bowl Halftime Show yet, but their voice still made an appearance during one of the biggest nights in sports. In 2015, their hit Stay With Me was featured in a Super Bowl Halftime Show promo, giving millions of viewers a taste of Sam’s iconic ballad.

While it wasn’t a live performance, the inclusion of Sam’s song during such a massive event was a major moment in their career. It cemented their place as an artist with universal appeal and showed that their music could resonate with audiences beyond the charts.

Fans are still hoping for the day when Sam gets to headline the Halftime Show themselves. With their incredible voice, emotional connection to their music, and ability to deliver unforgettable performances, it feels like it’s only a matter of time before they take the Super Bowl stage.

10. They're a Dog Parent

Sam Smith is a proud parent to Velma, their adorable French bulldog, who often steals the spotlight on their social media. Velma has become a bit of a star in her own right, charming fans with her big ears, squishy face, and playful antics.

Sam frequently shares photos and videos of Velma on Instagram, showing sweet moments like cuddle sessions, walks, and silly poses. Their love for their pup is obvious, and it’s so refreshing to see this softer, more down-to-earth side of the superstar.

Velma has even accompanied Sam on tour, proving that she’s the ultimate road buddy. For fans, seeing Sam’s bond with Velma adds another layer of relatability to their persona. After all, who doesn’t love a good dog moment?

11. They Were in a Boy Band

Long before their solo career took off, Sam Smith was part of a pop group called Lucky 13. The group focused on youth-oriented, feel-good music, and while it didn’t lead to chart-topping hits, it gave Sam an early taste of performing and working in the music industry.

Being in Lucky 13 was a formative experience for Sam, helping them develop their stage presence and find their voice as an artist. Although the band didn’t last, it was a stepping stone that paved the way for Sam’s solo success.

Looking back, it’s wild to imagine Sam in a boy band, especially considering how unique and soulful their music has become. It’s proof that even the most iconic artists start somewhere—and that every experience, no matter how small, contributes to the bigger picture.

12. They Wrote Their First Album While Heartbroken

Sam Smith’s debut album, In the Lonely Hour, wasn’t just a commercial hit—it was a deeply personal project inspired by their own heartbreak. At the time, Sam was dealing with the pain of unrequited love, and every track on the album feels like a raw confession of those emotions. Songs like Stay With Me and I’m Not the Only One became instant classics, resonating with millions of fans who found comfort in Sam’s vulnerability.

The album wasn’t just an artistic triumph—it was a global success. It topped charts worldwide, earned Sam four Grammy Awards, and solidified their reputation as one of the most talented vocalists of their generation. What’s even more incredible is how open Sam was about the real-life inspiration behind the album. They’ve shared that the unrequited love they experienced ultimately shaped their artistry, turning heartbreak into music that connects with people on a deeply emotional level.

This willingness to channel pain into creativity is what makes Sam’s music so powerful. Their debut wasn’t just the beginning of their career—it was proof that the most personal stories often have the most universal impact.

13. They're a Huge Musical Theater Fan

Sam Smith has always been a fan of musical theater, and their love for Broadway hits like Wicked and The Phantom of the Opera runs deep. They’ve often talked about how musical theater inspired their love for singing and storytelling, which is evident in their emotionally charged performances. Sam has even shared clips of themselves singing iconic show tunes, and let’s just say, their take on Defying Gravity would absolutely slay on stage.

Their appreciation for theater goes beyond just being a fan. Sam has expressed interest in one day performing in a musical, and honestly, can you imagine how amazing that would be? With their powerhouse vocals and ability to convey raw emotion, they’d bring so much depth to any role.

Musical theater has clearly influenced Sam’s career, from their dramatic ballads to their ability to captivate audiences. Whether it’s on a Broadway stage or a concert arena, Sam’s theatrical flair is undeniable, and we’re all just waiting for the day they make their official musical debut.

14. They're Obsessed With Tattoos

Sam Smith’s tattoos are more than just ink—they’re deeply personal expressions of their journey and identity. Over the years, Sam has built an impressive collection of meaningful tattoos, each with its own story. From a pair of heels symbolizing their gender identity to a lighthouse representing guidance and hope, every piece of ink on their body carries a special significance.

One of their most iconic tattoos is the word “alone,” which they’ve explained reflects both the challenges and beauty of solitude. Sam has been open about how getting tattoos has become a way for them to document their experiences, almost like a visual diary.

In addition to meaningful designs, Sam isn’t afraid to embrace fun and quirky tattoos. They’ve shown off everything from simple line art to bold statements, proving their ink is as versatile as their music. For fans, Sam’s tattoos are a reminder of their authenticity and their willingness to wear their heart—literally—on their sleeve.

15. They Once Serenaded Prince William and Kate Middleton

Sam Smith has performed for countless audiences around the world, but one of their most memorable gigs involved singing for royalty. In 2014, Sam performed at a private gala attended by Prince William and Kate Middleton, and the intimate setting made the moment even more special.

For Sam, it was a surreal experience to sing for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, who reportedly loved the performance. While they’ve graced massive stages and headlined arenas, the opportunity to perform for royalty added a new level of prestige to Sam’s career.

The performance also highlighted Sam’s ability to captivate any audience, whether it’s a crowd of thousands or two of the most famous royals in the world. It’s moments like this that show just how versatile and universally loved Sam’s music truly is.

16. They Love Cooking (And Eating)

Sam Smith isn’t just a foodie—they’re a self-proclaimed home chef who loves experimenting in the kitchen. Over the years, they’ve shared glimpses of their culinary adventures on social media, from baking fails to picture-perfect dishes. For Sam, cooking is more than just a hobby—it’s a way to unwind and connect with the simple joys of life.

Their love for food extends to their travels, where they’re always on the hunt for the best local eats. Whether it’s a hidden gem in London or a must-visit restaurant on tour, Sam’s foodie adventures are well-documented and always leave fans drooling.

What makes Sam’s approach to food so relatable is their willingness to share both successes and failures in the kitchen. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about having fun and enjoying the process. Their love for cooking and eating reminds us all to savor life’s little pleasures, one bite at a time.

17. Unholy Made Them TikTok Royalty

In 2022, Sam Smith teamed up with Kim Petras for the hit single Unholy, and it took the world by storm. The song quickly became a viral sensation on TikTok, with millions of fans using it in videos and dance challenges. Its bold, edgy vibe marked a departure from Sam’s usual ballads, showing a completely new side of their artistry.

Unholy didn’t just dominate social media—it also topped the Billboard Hot 100, making it Sam’s first No. 1 hit in the U.S. The success of the track cemented their status as a pop icon who’s constantly evolving and pushing boundaries.

For Sam, Unholy was a game-changer, introducing their music to an entirely new audience while proving that they can thrive in any genre. The song’s massive success was a testament to their versatility and willingness to take creative risks. It’s safe to say that Unholy is one of the defining moments of Sam’s career, and its impact continues to resonate with fans around the world.

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Sam Smith isn’t just a singer—they’re a force of nature. Whether they’re redefining music with genre-breaking hits or challenging societal norms as a proud non-binary artist, Sam has proven time and time again that they’re here to stay. Their story is one of resilience, self-discovery, and using their platform to inspire millions worldwide.

From their tattoos that tell a story to their viral moments on TikTok and their love for food and cooking, Sam’s life is layered, authentic, and endlessly fascinating. These 17 fun facts give just a glimpse into the world of an artist who’s constantly evolving and leaving their mark on every space they enter.

As we continue to watch Sam’s journey unfold, one thing is clear—they’re not just an icon of our time; they’re paving the way for the next generation of artists and changemakers. Keep streaming, keep supporting, and stay tuned for what’s next because Sam Smith’s story is far from over. Stay inspired with more stories from the vibrant world of pop culture here at Woke Waves Magazine. 🎤✨