Photo: V Magazine
Sam Smith has spoken out to slam 'awful' modern pop stars who lack humility, in a new interview for V Magazine.
The 'Stay With Me' star is in conversation with the legendary Chaka Khan in the new 'Music Issue' of the magazine, which also features FKA Twigs, Jessie Ware and Tinashe on alternate covers.
"Even when you meet them - I won't name names - but some of these pop stars are just awful," Smith said to Khan. "And they have not even had half the success that you've had and yet you're so humble and kind."
Khan replied: "Well, its people skills. Talking to a screen all day long takes the human experience out. Luckily I grew up in a time when we only had a telephone at home."
They later agreed to collaborate, with Khan saying: "We are definitely going to write a song together," before Smith replies "100%, I'm in. I was actually thinking me, you, and Mary [J Blige] would do something."
Watch Sam Smith tell Gigwise about his personal life and album below
It isn't the first time that Smith has slammed the modern pop industry. Speaking to The Mirror, The In The Lonely Hour chart-topper took aim at X Factor.
"It was a very conscious decision for me not to audition," said Smith. "It is for people, and it isn't for people.
"I feel that X Factor is perfect for singers who sing, and that's all they want to do. They don't care what they sing, they just love singing..."
He went on: "The minute I started writing music, I knew that none of that stuff was going to be for me. I want people judging me on my voice and my songs - that's what's important to me. I always say to people: 'If you're a singer, go for it.' It's an amazing platform. But if you're not, and you're a songwriter, I think it's actually quite damaging for you to go on there."
Smith added: "You're singing other people's music, so then when you release your own stuff, people might not like it."
Meanwhile, Smith will be returning to the UK for a full tour in March 2015. Buy tickets safely and securely using Seatwave here.
March 2015
16 Glasgow, O2 Academy
17 Glasgow, O2 Academy
19 Manchester, O2 Apollo
20 Manchester, O2 ApollO
22 Wolverhampton, Civic Hall
23 Wolverhampton, Civic Hall
25 London, O2 Academy Brixton
26 London, O2 Academy Brixton
27 London, O2 Academy Brixton
