Sam Smith Calls for Major Awards Shake-Up With Non-Binary Category Push
Sam Smith, the non-binary pop icon who originally advocated for the abolition of gendered award categories, once expressed concern over the unintended consequences of that very change. In a reflection on the state of the music industry, Smith noted the total absence of women in the 2023 BRIT Awards’ flagship “Artist of the Year” category as a significant setback for representation.
The shift to a gender-neutral format was a major milestone that Smith personally championed in 2021. I look forward to a time where awards shows can be reflective of the society we live in. Let’s celebrate everybody, regardless of gender, race, age, ability, sexuality and class, they said at the time.
Things are moving forward, but it’s obvious it’s not there yet. From seeing that [best artist] list, there is still a long way to go, Smith explained. They emphasized that the value of these ceremonies extends beyond the trophy itself, acting as a crucial beacon for the next generation of creators.
Smith’s vision for award shows is one that prioritizes inspiration over mere competition. [The BRITs] just have to celebrate everyone because this is not just about artists getting awards. Awards are for kids watching on TV, thinking, “I can make music like this,” the musician added.
The lack of diversity in the nominations sparked a broader conversation about systemic barriers in the industry. A representative for the BRIT Awards noted that the eligibility cycle simply saw fewer high profile women artists in cycle with major releases, though critics pointed to successful albums by Florence + The Machine and Charli XCX as evidence that women were indeed present.
Beyond the awards debate, Smith has remained a prolific force in the music world throughout 2025 and into 2026. They recently released the soul-stirring single To Be Free and celebrated the 10th anniversary of their debut album, In The Lonely Hour, with a special expanded edition.
Looking ahead to February 2026, Smith is set to launch an intimate residency titled To Be Free: San Francisco. The eight-night run will take place at the historic Castro Theatre, marking the venue’s official reopening and celebrating its deep-rooted history within the LGBTQ+ community.
Smith is also rumored to be working on a new studio project, which many expect to drop later this year. Their focus continues to be on creating music that resonates with vulnerability and courage while advocating for an industry that mirrors the diversity of its listeners.
Do you believe that merging award categories helps eliminate gender bias, or does it inadvertently make it harder for women and non-binary artists to receive the recognition they deserve? Please share your thoughts in the comments.