Inside Sam Smith’s Hazel Eyes and the Love Story Behind It

Sam Smith has transformed their real life love story into music with fifth studio album Hazel Eyes, released on 21 August 2026 through Capitol Records.

There is now an even happier story behind the record. Smith confirmed in July that they are engaged to fashion designer Christian Cowan after three years together, with several songs on the 12 track album inspired directly by their relationship.

Even the title has a romantic connection. Hazel Eyes is named after Cowan’s eye colour, while the record follows a narrative beginning on the eve of Smith falling in love and continuing through the first years of the relationship.

Opening track Everlasting Love begins that story, followed by the title track Hazel Eyes. The album also includes Moondance featuring Feist, My Guy, When He’s Gone, Thief, Love Is A Stillness, Sugar Rush, Oh Mother featuring The TwoCity Chorus, Constant Companion, Hold On and To Be Free.

The album represents another first for Smith, who has stepped into a co producer role for the first time alongside Simon Aldred and David Odlum. Created over three years, the project also reflects Smith moving from England to New York City and finding a new sense of artistic freedom.

For LGBTQ+ listeners, however, one of its most significant elements is how directly Smith approaches queer romance. Speaking about the album, Smith said that being vulnerable can also mean being openly romantic and explained that singing about queer love with complete honesty feels particularly important in the world today.

It is a notable message from an artist who has spent years bringing LGBTQ+ visibility into mainstream pop. Smith came out as non binary in 2019 and uses they and them pronouns, and their career has included Grammy, BRIT, Golden Globe and Academy Award success.

Hazel Eyes allows that representation to take a particularly joyful form. This is not simply an LGBTQ+ artist making another album. Queer love, commitment and happiness sit at the centre of the story, with Smith now singing about the person they are preparing to marry.

UK fans will also have opportunities to hear the new music live. Smith’s To Be Free residency reaches Manchester’s Albert Hall in September before eight performances at the London Coliseum between 8 and 19 September.

Hazel Eyes is available now, with CD and vinyl editions also available through Sam Smith’s official store.

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Sources: Sam Smith official store, Universal Music and E! News. (Sam Smith)