Sam Smith recently hosted a private party at Julius’, the oldest gay bar in New York City, to celebrate the 10th anniversary of their debut album, “In the Lonely Hour.” The event took place in the West Village of Manhattan, where fans eagerly awaited a late-night performance by Smith and a special guest, Alicia Keys.
During the gathering, Smith, who prefers they/them pronouns, mingled with fans at the bar while wearing striking Vivienne Westwood platform boots and a tartan kilt. The Grammy-winning singer engaged with attendees and posed for selfies, towering above the crowd in their unique ensemble.
The party featured themed cocktails named after Smith’s songs, such as the “Good Thing” cosmo and the “Life Support” margarita. The significance of Julius’ as a historic site was emphasized, particularly its role in the 1966 Sip-In, an act of civil disobedience that paved the way for LGBTQ+ rights movements like the Stonewall uprising.
Smith explained their choice of Julius’ for the event, citing the bar’s longstanding reputation as a safe and inclusive space. The singer expressed feeling a sense of security at Julius’ that they had not experienced elsewhere, highlighting the importance of LGBTQ+ friendly establishments in fostering a welcoming environment for all.
The Pride celebrations in the West Village added an extra layer of significance to the party, underscoring the ongoing fight for equality and acceptance. By hosting the event at Julius’, Smith paid homage to the bar’s legacy and its historical significance in the LGBTQ+ community.
Overall, the Pride party hosted by Sam Smith and Alicia Keys at Julius’ served as a celebration of music, inclusivity, and the continued push for LGBTQ+ rights. The event brought together fans, friends, and supporters in a vibrant and spirited atmosphere, uniting people in a shared love for music and acceptance.
