Critics slam new Sam Smith video as unhealthy, not good for society

Good Morning Britain host says it’s aimed at teens

Despite surpassing four million views on its release, the new Sam Smith music video “I’m Not Here to Make Friends” has received various reactions from the public. Some viewers have praised the video, commenting on its visually striking imagery and intricate choreography. [i]

In contrast, others have criticized its lack of narrative direction and focus on more abstract concepts. Nevertheless, the video has been widely shared across various social media platforms, increasing Sam Smith’s popularity and recognition. [i]

On ITV’s Good Morning Britain, Alex Phillips classified Sam Smith’s most recently released music video as “unhealthy” after being corrected for misgendering Smith. This followed Smith’s recent coming out as non-binary and uses the pronouns they/them. Phillips’ comment came in response to Smith’s video, which was met with mixed reviews from viewers. [ii]

Some praised Smith’s courage to express their identity. In contrast, others felt the video was too “in your face” and uncomfortable to watch. Regardless of opinions, the video has sparked a conversation about the importance of accepting and respecting the LGBTQ+ community. [ii]

What is the new Sam Smith controversial video about?

The brightly colored music video for Smith’s song features him dancing in attention-grabbing, often provocative outfits. At one point, he wears jet-black platform shoes with a glittery golden cape as he swings from a crystal chandelier. [ii]

Other dancers wear formal gowns, and some men wear only leather underwear, gyrating and moving suggestively throughout the four-minute video. Smith’s choreography and dress style has been praised by many viewers as creative and bold. At the same time, others have criticized it as too sexual and inappropriate. [ii]

Watch the full Sam Smith video below. 

Public reception continues to be a mixture of sentiments

Sam Smith recently released the single “I’m Not Here to Make Friends,” which has received widespread criticism. In response to the backlash, Smith took to Instagram to make a bold statement, posting a shirtless photo with black heart-shaped pasties. [iii]

While some have praised Smith for the creative move, others have criticized the artist’s recent work. Nonetheless, Smith seems unbothered by the controversy and is determined to stand by his creative decisions.[iii]

Smith’s supporters quickly pointed out that his video was not much different from many other risque videos released in the past. They argued that his video was no more explicit or inappropriate than those released by famous artists and celebrities. [iv]

They argued that Smith was unfairly targeted and singled out. They claimed they should be accepted as part of the entertainment industry and not subjected to criticism. They argued that Smith’s video was an expression of his artistic talent. [iv]

Many people discussed Madonna’s iconic “Like a Prayer” music video, noting that had she made a similar video in the modern era, it would not have been met with such intense backlash and criticism. Additionally, people discussed Miley Cyrus’ music video for “Wrecking Ball” and Cardi B’s controversial music video for “WAP,” both seen as more socially acceptable and progressive than Madonna’s video. [iv]

Both videos have been heralded as examples of how artists in the modern era can create music videos that push the boundaries of what is socially acceptable without being met with the same level of criticism Madonna and her work faced in the past. [iv]

Watch the official video to Like a Prayer below. 

Ultimately those in opposition to the “raunchy” and potentially explicit nature of Smith’s new video are calling for it to be age-restricted on platforms like YouTube, as it may be deemed too graphic or offensive for younger viewers. Shock factor content is becoming increasingly popular, particularly in the music industry. Smith’s video may be a publicity stunt to further boost his numbers and capitalize on the trend. [v]

Watch a clip from the Good Morning Britain commentary in the video below.

References

[i] Good Morning Britain, Sam Smith Vid: Empowering or Offensive? (Jan. 30, 2023)

[ii] Sam Smith, I’m Not Here to Make Friends (Jan. 27, 2023)

[iii] Sam Smith, 🖤

[iv] Connie Rusk, Sam Smith defiantly posts shirtless snap wearing heart covers after backlash (Jan. 31, 2023)