A Deeply Personal Song Born from Inner Freedom
GRAMMY®, BRIT, Golden Globe, and Oscar-winning artist Sam Smith has released their latest single, “To Be Free”, a hauntingly intimate track carried by raw acoustic instrumentation and the emotional resonance of the TwoCity Chorus. Now available on all major platforms, the song is accompanied by an evocative official video that mirrors the song’s vulnerable themes.
“To Be Free” offers listeners a unique experience. Recorded in a single live take with vocals and guitar, it captures the spontaneous musical connection between Sam and longtime collaborator Simon Aldred. Smith describes the recording process as unlike anything they’ve experienced before—a pure moment of expression shared with a friend.
“I wrote it five years ago while working on my last album, Gloria, but I knew this wasn’t a song for that time,” says Sam. “It came from a period in my life when I felt a profound inner liberation.”
What Inspired “To Be Free” and Why Release It Now?
The imagery of rivers plays a central role in Sam Smith’s reflection on the song. Growing up near a small river in Cambridgeshire, moving to London by the Thames, and now living near the Hudson in New York, rivers have symbolized change, emotion, and personal growth for the artist.
“I kept coming back to this song during moments of joy, sadness, loneliness, and even anger. It’s become a companion—a sister, a family member—that soothes me,” Sam explains. “Now, I feel it’s time to release it and hope it can comfort someone else, too.”
To Be Free not only showcases Sam’s vocal maturity but also reflects an evolution in their artistry—a move towards honest storytelling grounded in simplicity and soul.
When and Where Can Fans Experience It Live?
In an exciting extension of this release, Sam Smith has announced a 12-night “To Be Free: New York City“ residency this October at Warsaw, a historic and intimate venue in Brooklyn. This rare concert series offers fans a close-up experience of Sam’s new musical chapter in a setting designed to echo the quiet intensity of the song itself.
Warsaw, a venue known for its warm acoustics and unique character, has hosted a variety of eclectic and powerful performances over the years. With a capacity under 1,000, it’s a stark contrast to the stadiums and arenas where Sam typically performs. This choice underlines the personal nature of “To Be Free” and invites fans into an almost private musical conversation.
Each show promises an intimate exploration of Sam’s musical evolution. Setlists are expected to blend stripped-down versions of previous hits with new material that aligns with the reflective tone of “To Be Free.” Fans may even be treated to spontaneous storytelling and unreleased tracks, making each night a unique experience.
Smith’s connection to New York City, particularly Brooklyn, adds another layer of emotional depth. The artist has often spoken about how the city’s vibrant energy and diversity have influenced their creativity. With Warsaw nestled in the heart of Williamsburg, the venue becomes more than just a backdrop—it’s a symbol of artistic rebirth.
Sam Smith – “To Be Free: New York City” 2025 Warsaw Residency Dates
Wednesday, October 8
Friday, October 10
Saturday, October 11
Wednesday, October 15
Friday, October 17
Saturday, October 18
Tuesday, October 21
Wednesday, October 22
Friday, October 24
Wednesday, October 29
Thursday, October 30
Friday, October 31
Tickets for the residency are expected to sell out quickly. Pre-sale demand has already sparked conversation online, with fans praising the opportunity to see Sam in such a personal setting. The residency also serves as a potential testing ground for future acoustic projects or live albums, hinting at a new direction in Smith’s career.
Whether you’re a long-time follower or a new fan drawn in by “To Be Free,” this concert series offers a rare chance to witness the artist in a state of raw creativity. The songs, the stories, and the ambiance of Warsaw together promise an unforgettable musical experience.
Why Is “To Be Free” Resonating with Fans So Deeply?
At its core, To Be Free taps into a universal yearning—the desire for authenticity and emotional release. In an era where overproduction often dominates, Sam’s choice to strip everything back emphasizes the song’s message: that true freedom lies in vulnerability.
As Sam continues to redefine what it means to be an artist today, their openness and emotional honesty serve as a powerful reminder that music, at its best, can be both deeply personal and widely relatable.
Could this be the beginning of a new sonic era for Sam Smith? Fans will find out soon, as To Be Free sets the tone for what may come next.
