Sam Smith, the non-binary pop icon, touched the hearts of their fans during a performance on the Gloria tour in Montreal, Canada. The singer, known for hits like “I’m Not Here to Make Friends,” became visibly emotional on stage at the Bell Centre, expressing that they were “trying hard not to cry.”
Smith’s connection to the venue runs deep. In an Instagram post following the performance, they revealed their teenage obsession with Rihanna’s concert DVD and how it fueled their dream to perform on the same stage. “Deep down it was my life’s mission to get to that room and to sing on that stage,” Smith wrote. They recalled their first show at the Bell Centre during the “In the Lonely Hour” tour, marking it as their favorite show of the entire tour. Smith’s emotional response underlined the significance of the moment for both themselves and their fans.
The impact of Smith’s performance resonated with many, including fans who expressed their gratitude and admiration. One fan labeled the night as the “best night” of their life, underscoring the power of Smith’s artistry to create meaningful connections.
Continuing their North American tour, Smith is set to perform in Chicago on August 15 before returning to Canada later in the month. The international journey of the Gloria tour includes stops in Mexico, China, Japan, and ultimately concluding in New Zealand in November. Earlier this year, Smith faced challenges due to a vocal cord injury that led to show cancellations. In May, they left the stage in Manchester and subsequently canceled performances in Birmingham and Glasgow, citing a virus as the cause of their vocal issues.
Sam Smith’s emotional display in Montreal serves as a poignant reminder of the profound impact that artists within the LGBTQ community can have on their audience, transcending boundaries and fostering connections through shared experiences.
