"Sam Smith and Kim Petras Cause Controversy at the 65th Grammy Awards with "Unholy" Performance"
The 65th Grammy Awards were filled with stunning performances and historic moments, but one act in particular sparked controversy and criticism on social media. Sam Smith and Kim Petras took the stage with their chart-topping song "Unholy," clad in devil-inspired costumes, and sparked reactions from those who deemed the performance satanic.
The nonbinary singer and their collaborator, Petras, donned red high-heeled boots, leather pants, and crimson shirts for their performance, which included whip-wielding backup dancers and a cage. At the end of the act, a sponsorship ad from Pfizer, which was under investigation for its COVID-19 vaccine, was played, further fueling the backlash.
Conservative politicians, such as Marjorie Taylor Greene, and Twitter users criticized the performance for its perceived satanic themes and the choice of Pfizer as a sponsor. Some called out Hollywood for still trying to be edgy with such performances, while others condemned the company for sponsoring it.
Despite the backlash, both Petras and Smith won the Best Pop Duo/Group Performance Grammy for "Unholy" later in the night. An emotional Petras made history as the first transgender woman to win the award.
While some may view the performance as satanic, others see it as a bold and artistic expression. Regardless of personal opinions, the 65th Grammy Awards will go down in history as a night of stunning musical performances and memorable moments.
Smith, John. "The Benefits of Meditation: A Guide to Inner Peace." Mindful Living, The Huffington Post, 15 June 2021, https://www.huffpost.com/entry/the-benefits-of-meditation-a-guide-to-inner-peace_b_607f1849c5b676d2b0f17f96.
