Grammy, Brit, Golden Globe, Oscar, and GLAAD Media Award winning musician Sam Smith has graced us all with a brand-new cover of the iconic self-love ballad “Beautiful.” The song was originally written by Linda Perry and made famous by GLAAD Media Award winner Christina Aguilera.
Aguilera was recently named GLAAD’s 2023 Advocate for Change Award recipient. Watch her moving speech here:
“I’ve been such a massive fan of Christina’s for as long as I can remember and will never forget the first time I heard ‘Beautiful’ and how personally it spoke to me,” said Smith. “The song is a true acceptance anthem and continues to inspire me with its important message to never stop celebrating who you are. I’m honored to have the opportunity to offer my rendition.” Smith’s cover is available exclusively on Amazon Music.
Smith’s cover is kicking off Amazon Music’s PROUD playlist which is amplifying new music from LGBTQ creators. On top of this, Amazon Music is also launching a new “Pride Hits Radio in DJ Mode” station hosted by RuPaul’s Drag Race alum, Mo Heart. This Pride-themed DJ Mode station highlights the most iconic Pride anthems accompanied by commentary from Mo Heart and interviews with LGBTQ artists including Sam Smith, Tove Lo and Big Freedia.
Heart is also hosting a digital series called The Walk In that will spotlight LGBTQ artists and allies in each episode such as Big Freedia and Trixie Mattel. “I was so excited for Season 4 of The Walk In and being a part of DJ Mode. Having these opportunities allowed me to showcase my true essence and take my creativity to the next level. Through my selections and interviews on DJ Mode, I wanted to create a space where people can let loose, feel empowered, and celebrate their individuality. With The Walk In, I always enjoyed helping my guests feel comfortable to flaunt their fashions without judgment. I hoped to capture the core of pure joy, self-expression, and unapologetic love for fashion with The Walk In and music for DJ Mode.”
Amazon Music users can also look forward to several live streamed events airing on the Amazon Music channel on Twitch and Jujubee’s podcast, Queen of Hearts will be returning for Seasons 3 and 4, releasing early and ad-free starting on June 13th on Amazon Music.