Sam Smith and the Impact of ‘My Guy’ in LGBTQ Music

Barry Walters, Rolling Stone writer and author of the book “Mighty Real,” explores the significance of language in LGBTQ music. He highlights how altering a word can transform the sense and relatability of a love song. Among LGBTQ individuals, it’s common to mentally switch gender pronouns in mainstream songs to better relate to their messages.

Current hits often don’t cater specifically to LGBTQ audiences. Even music created by LGBTQ artists can be marginalized unless it achieves significant commercial success. Sam Smith, known for breaking barriers, stands out. Smith’s new single, “My Guy,” marks a shift from the confrontational nature of his last big hit, “Unholy,” to something more subtle.

In “My Guy,” Smith uses masculine nouns to depict same-sex relationships, a move that holds significance given Smith’s mainstream popularity. Direct representation in pop music is rare and notable for its straightforwardness. This approach differs from the historical complexity seen in the work of pioneering artists like Little Richard and David Bowie, who expressed gender fluidity through creative provocation.

“When butch gals, nelly boys, and drag queens stood their ground against hostile cops at the Stonewall Inn 57 years ago, they demonstrated the power of rebellion. This summer, Sam Smith continues that spirit with a ballad where each noun repeated reflects a major advancement.”

“My Guy” represents a gentle yet revolutionary step in LGBTQ pop music. Its simple yet profound message challenges traditional norms. Walters’ book, “Mighty Real,” further details the history of LGBTQ music from 1969 to 2000, shedding light on artists who paved the way.

For more information, readers can find “Mighty Real: A History of LGBTQ Music, 1969-2000” by Barry Walters in various formats on major platforms such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Bookshop.org. Additional content regarding Sam Smith’s music is available on samsmithworld.com and barrywalterswriter.com.