Hozier has criticised the church for providing "an excuse for homophobia", and dismissed the pope's recent comments regarding sexuality as "lip service."
The Irish singer broke into the music scene last year with the help of single 'Take Me To Church', which has since been streamed more than 800 million times. The song's lyrics are overtly critical of the hypocrisy of the church, and its accompanying video alludes to homophobic attacks in Russia.
Speaking to Gigwise about the song's lyrics, Hozier explained, "I wouldn't like to think of it as an indictment against religion or an indictment against institutions. It would perhaps be an indictment against institutions that undermine some of the more natural parts of being a person - undermine humanity in some way, shape or form."
Watch Hozier talk to Gigwise on the story behind 'Take Me To Church' below
Now though, Hozier has made more explicit his aversion to the Catholic Church, telling Kelly Osbourne, "It is [an institution] that has institutionalized gender inequality as well, dangerous policy over contraception and, in this case, it still harbours an irrational aversion to homosexuality. Which in my view I think that is why I was driven to write 'Take Me to Church.' I think the church provides an excuse for homophobia."
Speaking of the pope directly, Hozier continued, "The pope came here last year and said, 'Who am I to judge with regards to somebody's sexual orientation?' I think it is important to differentiate between lip service towards something and actually making change. I think it is hopeful, but saying this in 2015, 'Who am I to judge?' is something that should have been said 100 years ago."
Watch Hozier's full interview with Kelly Osbourne here.
Hozier embarks on a UK tour next year. Check out all of his dates below and click here for tickets and more information.
Fri 8 January 2016 - EDINBURGH Usher Hall
Sat 9 January 2016 - MANCHESTER O2 Apollo
Mon 11 January 2016 - SHEFFIELD O2 Academy Sheffield
Tue 12 January 2016 - LIVERPOOL Empire
Fri 29 January 2016 - LONDON O2 Academy, Brixton
Sat 30 January 2016 - LONDON O2 Academy, Brixton - NEW DATE
Tue 2 February 2016 - BIRMINGHAM O2 Academy Birmingham
Thu 4 February 2016 - PORTSMOUTH Guildhall
Fri 5 February 2016 - CARDIFF St David's Hall
