"Unholy" made history on the Billboard Hot 100 as the first No. 1 hit performed by an openly non-binary artist and an openly transgender artist. This achievement was particularly monumental for Kim Petras, who had spent over a decade navigating the industry as a "niche" artist before this collaboration provided a "gateway" into her wider discography. For Sam Smith, it marked their first U.S. No. 1, proving their staying power and ability to evolve beyond the soulful ballads that defined their early career.
: It features a grinding bassline, Gregorian choir-like vocals, and metallic hyperpop synths reminiscent of producer SOPHIE.
: The song is set in the C♯ Phrygian dominant mode, giving it a distinct sound often associated with Indian and Arabic music.
The 2022 release of "Unholy" by Sam Smith and Kim Petras was more than just a successful pop single; it was a watershed moment for LGBTQ+ visibility and a sonic departure that challenged industry norms. By blending provocative themes with innovative production, the track secured its place in music history and sparked a global conversation about faith, identity, and the "queer quota" in mainstream media.
Musically, "Unholy" is a "sultry disco banger" and electropop track that draws from diverse influences, including:
: The lyrics detail a secret affair at a strip club (the "Body Shop"), exploring themes of infidelity and liberation from "the clutches of others' secrets".
"Unholy" made history on the Billboard Hot 100 as the first No. 1 hit performed by an openly non-binary artist and an openly transgender artist. This achievement was particularly monumental for Kim Petras, who had spent over a decade navigating the industry as a "niche" artist before this collaboration provided a "gateway" into her wider discography. For Sam Smith, it marked their first U.S. No. 1, proving their staying power and ability to evolve beyond the soulful ballads that defined their early career.
: It features a grinding bassline, Gregorian choir-like vocals, and metallic hyperpop synths reminiscent of producer SOPHIE. Download Sam Smith Unholy Kim Petras
: The song is set in the C♯ Phrygian dominant mode, giving it a distinct sound often associated with Indian and Arabic music. "Unholy" made history on the Billboard Hot 100
The 2022 release of "Unholy" by Sam Smith and Kim Petras was more than just a successful pop single; it was a watershed moment for LGBTQ+ visibility and a sonic departure that challenged industry norms. By blending provocative themes with innovative production, the track secured its place in music history and sparked a global conversation about faith, identity, and the "queer quota" in mainstream media. For Sam Smith, it marked their first U
Musically, "Unholy" is a "sultry disco banger" and electropop track that draws from diverse influences, including:
: The lyrics detail a secret affair at a strip club (the "Body Shop"), exploring themes of infidelity and liberation from "the clutches of others' secrets".