From pubs to pop stardom: Sam Smith's journey before fame

Sam Smith, now a global pop phenomenon set to perform multiple concerts in Mexico City, embarked on a journey from humble beginnings in rural Cambridgeshire to international stardom.

Born Samuel Frederick Smith on May 19, 1992, in London, the singer grew up in the English countryside. Their mother, Kate Cassidy, was a pioneering female banker, while their father, Frederick Smith, managed the household. Smith's musical inclination was evident early on; they began taking singing lessons at age eight and participated in various youth theater and choir groups.

At 18, Smith moved to London with dreams of a music career, inspired partly by artists like Lady Gaga. To support themselves during this pursuit, Smith worked demanding jobs as a bartender, serving drinks, cleaning bathrooms, and mopping floors in a pub. This period of struggle and perseverance laid the foundation for their eventual success.

The turning point arrived in 2012 when a 20-year-old Smith featured on Disclosure's song "Latch." This collaboration marked a significant moment, bringing their distinctive voice to international attention and launching their trajectory toward becoming one of the most recognized voices of their generation.

In their personal life, Smith came out as non-binary in 2017 and adopted they/them pronouns. They are currently engaged to fashion designer Christian Cowan, with whom they have shared a relationship for three years. Smith has indicated that their latest album, "Hazel Eyes," is inspired by this relationship.