Sam Smith releases emotional single "When He’s Gone" ahead of album

Sam Smith has released a poignant new single titled "When He’s Gone," as anticipation builds for their upcoming fifth studio album, "Hazel Eyes," set to launch on August 21 via Capitol Records UK. The track, which follows previous singles "My Guy" and "Oh Mother," captures the emotional turmoil of a relationship nearing its end.

The timing of the release coincides with Smith's personal life, as they prepare to embark on a new chapter with their engagement to fashion designer Christian Cowan. This latest single showcases a more vulnerable side of Smith, with lyrics that reflect the pain of loss: “When he’s walking out on me / He takes everything I need.” Smith described the song as embodying “a melancholy shade,” engineered to evoke the feeling of an approaching storm, a metaphor for the emotional weight carried throughout the track.

In addition to the single, Smith has announced a series of concerts in Manchester and London slated for 2026, supporting the album. The tour kicks off with performances at Manchester's Albert Hall on September 3 and 4, followed by shows at the London Coliseum from September 8 to 19. Tickets are currently available for fans eager to experience the new music live.

Smith has emphasized the importance of sharing openly queer love songs during a time when LGBTQ+ rights face significant challenges. Despite the desire to keep their relationship largely private, Smith believes in the radical nature of expressing love through music. “I’m not going to allow the poison that I read and that I see to affect my way of loving,” they stated, highlighting the significance of visibility and representation in their work.