February 2, 2023
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“I’m Not Here to Make Friends,” Sam Smith has created a stir with their video. The singer is seen performing with backing dancers while wearing a corset and nipple tassels, causing some to call the video “oversexualized.” The video starts with Sam arriving at a castle where they are surrounded by drag queens and dancers for a series of routines. One scene in particular, where Sam is shown in the corset and nipple tassels being showered with water, has upset some viewers.
The video was received with mixed reactions and caused controversy on social media, with some calling it “vulgar” and “inappropriate” for younger audiences. However, fans have pointed out that similar suggestive imagery is present in videos released by female artists such as Nicki Minaj, Rihanna, and Eric Prydz.
Many people think that the controversy surrounding the video is due to Sam’s non-binary identity and their embrace of LGBT culture in their music. Some see the backlash as a result of homophobia, queer phobia, transphobia, and fatphobia.
Trans advocate Kenny Ethan Jones sees the video as a moment of Sam embracing their queerness. Music video producer Ashleigh Jadee believes that the video’s shock factor comes from its representation of sexuality that is not often seen and its effort to put queer bodies at the center.
Throughout history, artists have reflected their LGBT identity in their work, with past examples such as George Michael’s “Outside” and Frankie Goes to Hollywood’s “Relax.” These releases faced controversy and faced challenges from the media, but they have helped to advance representation in the industry.
