Sam Smith’s Proms Performance: BBC Promises Appropriate Show Amid ‘Satanic’ Backlash
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BBC Assures Sam Smith’s Proms Performance Will Be “Entirely Appropriate”
The BBC has offered reassurance that Sam Smith’s upcoming performance at the Proms will be “entirely appropriate,” addressing concerns raised by previous backlash labeled as “Satanic.” Amid anticipation for Smith’s appearance as a headliner for this year’s BBC Proms, the broadcasting company aims to ensure a performance that aligns with the event’s ethos and audience expectations.
Sam Jackson, the director of BBC Radio 3, emphasized that Smith’s set at the Proms will be in line with the event’s spirit and audience preferences. Jackson affirmed that attendees can expect a performance that respects the Proms tradition while showcasing Smith’s musical talents. The performance will feature orchestral arrangements accompanying Smith’s renowned 2014 debut album, “In The Lonely Hour,” presented in its entirety.
Jackson clarified that the Proms performance will not resemble a standalone Sam Smith concert but will instead adhere to the distinctive ambiance of the festival. This distinction aims to address concerns stemming from previous performances that attracted criticism labeled as “Satanic.” Notably, Smith’s appearance at the 2023 BRIT Awards garnered over 100 complaints to Ofcom, raising objections to perceived themes during their performance.
At the BRIT Awards, Sam Smith’s rendition of the hit duet “Unholy,” performed with Kim Petras, sparked controversy, echoing prior criticisms from their Grammys performance. Despite the duo’s historic win at the Grammys, conservative viewers found elements of their performance objectionable, associating it with “demonic” themes.
The BBC have promised that Sam Smith‘s upcoming Proms performance will be “entirely appropriate” after their past ‘Satanic’ backlash. pic.twitter.com/FyrXgHS0Ad
— Pop Crave (@PopCrave) April 25, 2024
The controversy surrounding Sam Smith’s performances also drew commentary from musician Morrissey, who used the opportunity to criticize his record label for endorsing what he described as “Satanism.” Morrissey lamented the label’s promotion of Smith’s work while allegedly neglecting his own unreleased album.
In response to these concerns, the BBC aims to ensure that Sam Smith’s Proms performance remains within the bounds of appropriateness and aligns with the expectations of the event’s audience. By emphasizing the orchestral arrangements and the event’s distinctive atmosphere, the BBC seeks to mitigate potential controversies and offer a memorable musical experience for attendees.
Shivam Kumar
Hi, I'm Shivam Kumar. I'm pursuing Journalism honors from the IP University. I love the skill of writing and looking forward to learn more of it. Also I love traveling and experiencing new things every day....
