"Gloria" is Sam Smith's fourth studio album, preceded by "Love Goes: Live at Abbey Road Studios" in 2021. Smith began the album rollout with their singles "Love Me More" and "Unholy" feat. Petras. Other features on the album include Ed Sheeran, Jessie Reyez, Koffee, and Kim Petras.
"Dearest sailors I am overjoyed to announce that my fourth album is called 'GLORIA,'" Smith wrote on Instagram late last year. "I'm feeling overwhelmed and emotional as I start to let go of Gloria and hand this work over to you. It has been magical in every way to make this piece of music and by giving this record to you I am giving you part of my heart and soul. Gloria got me through some dark times and was a beacon for me in my life. I hope it can be that for you. Thank you for waiting so long. Only a few months now. Sam x."
According to Rolling Stone, Smith recorded the album in Los Angeles, London, and Jamaica. "It feels like emotional, sexual, and spiritual liberation," they said. "It was beautiful, with this album, to sing freely again. Oddly, it feels like my first-ever record. And it feels like a coming of age."
After releasing "Gloria" on Jan. 27, Smith announced a tour taking place throughout the summer. Smith later followed the album with their new song, "Vulgar," a collaboration with Madonna, on June 9.
