In a heartfelt revelation, Sam Smith has opened up about the invaluable support they received from Madonna during the tumultuous period surrounding their hit single Unholy. The song, a collaboration with Kim Petras became a lightning rod for controversy in 2026 due to its provocative imagery and themes.
The singer shared their experiences during an interview on The Zane Lowe Show on Apple Music highlighting Madonna’s immediate and unwavering support. This revelation comes as Smith prepares to release their fifth studio album, Hazel Eyes set to drop this Friday.
Madonna’s Timely Support During the ‘Unholy’ Backlash
Smith described Madonna as a mother figure praising her for reaching out as soon as the controversy erupted. ‘She’s just un-f—ing-real,’ Smith remarked, emphasizing Madonna’s deep awareness of queer issues and her commitment to supporting artists within the community.
The controversy surrounding Unholy was fueled by its provocative music video and live performances, which sparked debates and criticism. Madonna’s timely intervention provided Smith with much-needed solace and encouragement. ‘She, the minute it happened, she made sure she got through to me,’ Smith recalled, underscoring the pop icon’s proactive approach.
The Lifeline of Madonna’s Music for Queer Communities
Smith highlighted Madonna’s enduring influence on queer culture, describing her music as a lifeline for many. ‘You feel that in her music,’ Smith said, pointing to Madonna’s ability to reinvent herself while advocating for LGBTQ+ communities. This connection was further solidified when Madonna introduced Smith and Petras’ performance at the 2026 Grammy Awards where they won the award for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance.
Madonna’s introduction at the Grammys was a powerful moment, celebrating the duo’s fearlessness in the face of criticism. She remarked, ‘If they call you shocking, scandalous, troublesome, problematic, provocative or dangerous, you’re definitely on to something.’ This sentiment resonated deeply with Smith, who views Madonna as an inspiration and a beacon of strength.
Collaboration and Mutual Admiration
The bond between Smith and Madonna extended beyond moral support. In, they collaborated on the track Vulgar a project that emerged from the shared experience of facing criticism. This collaboration was a testament to their mutual admiration and the strength they found in each other’s company.
As Smith looks ahead to the release of Hazel Eyes their admiration for Madonna remains steadfast. ‘I think a lot of queer people find [her music] inspiring,’ Smith noted, reflecting on the broader impact of Madonna’s work. ‘And it’s not just a comfort in my personal life; it’s a comfort in my music.’
The full interview with Smith and Zane Lowe is available on demand with an Apple Music subscription, offering further insights into their artistic journey and the enduring influence of Madonna.
