Sam Smith has returned to the stage in full force. On Wednesday, October 15, the multi-award-winning artist kicked off their To Be Free: New York City residency at Warsaw, one of Brooklyn’s most storied venues. The show marked the start of an intimate new chapter for Smith, offering fans a closer look, and listen, at their evolving artistry.
A Night of Emotion and Debuts
The sold-out audience was treated to the live debut of Smith’s latest single, “To Be Free,” along with a handful of yet-to-be-released tracks and their most celebrated hits. The performance carried the raw emotional energy that’s become synonymous with Smith’s music, weaving themes of liberation and love while also touching on self-discovery making a huge impact throughout the night.
Before Smith took the stage, rising London singer-songwriter Sienna Spiro set the tone with a soulful opening set. The 20-year-old artist, who’s quickly making waves in the U.K. music scene, captivated the crowd with her tender vocals and honest lyricism.
Fashion and Freedom
True to form, Smith brought theatrical flair and elegance to the evening. Continuing their partnership with Vivienne Westwood, they performed in custom looks designed by Creative Director Andreas Kronthaler. The blend of avant-garde fashion and stripped-down performance reflected the spirit of To Be Free, bold and unapologetically authentic.
An Unfiltered Connection
The residency offers something fans rarely get to experience: Sam Smith up close. Originally scheduled for 12 nights, the To Be Free: New York City run sold out immediately and has now been extended through December. The shows follow the release of “To Be Free,” a track praised by outlets including The New York Times, Billboard, and Rolling Stone for its honesty and vocal power. The song explores the courage it takes to be open, featuring harmonies from The TwoCity Chorus.
From Brooklyn to San Francisco
Following the New York shows, Smith will bring the To Be Free experience to the West Coast. Beginning February 10, 2026, they’ll perform an eight-night residency at San Francisco’s historic Castro Theatre, marking the venue’s grand reopening after two years of renovation.
A Legacy Still in Motion
Smith remains one of the defining voices of the modern era. With five GRAMMY Awards, two Guinness World Records, and an Oscar to their name, they’ve achieved over 56 billion career streams. From the emotional In the Lonely Hour to the global success of “Unholy” with Kim Petras, Smith’s catalog continues to blend vulnerability with confidence.
Their latest project, BBC Proms at the Royal Albert Hall, released in June 2025, captured that same magic, reminding audiences that while fame may have made Sam Smith a global icon, the stage will always be their most intimate space.
The new single “To Be Free” is available now, and tickets for additional residency dates are on sale at SamSmithWorld.com.
