Britains Got Talent singer Calum Scott is currently enjoying the second biggest moment of his career.
The first was the unprecedented success of his cover of Robyns Dancing On My Own back in 2016.
Now, the 30-year-old is riding a new wave of glory after reliving his coming out story in the music video for his new single, No Matter What.
The emotional scenes are relatable for many so its no surprise the clip has amassed more than 12 million views in three weeks.
Reacting to the videos incredible response, Calum told Metro.co.uk: Its just been completely mind blowing. I always knew that with a song like this it was going to be part of my story.
Im very keen on making the world a better place whether thats changing peoples attitudes or giving people the confidence to be who they are. I always wanted this song to do that.
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The messages Ive received by the thousands, just saying Ive helped them to come out, its just been overwhelming and I couldnt have asked for anything more. Its incredibly humbling.
Calum was still coming to terms with sexuality while appearing on Britains Got Talent in 2015, and admits that dealing with such a momentous personal issue on a big platform was difficult.
The singer explained: It was tough. Back then, I was still struggling to accept my sexuality.
Id gone through life being obsessed about my sexuality, people would ask about relationships, girlfriends, you start referring to people as “they” so theres no judgement and you can be ambiguous. People around me knew but I still struggled with talking about it openly.
He continued: When that audition moment happened and it changed my life, it was instantaneous. The change. Id gone from being a normal HR worker from Hull to being recognised in the street, being on TV. As much as it was exciting, thrilling and a big, huge adrenaline rush.
With the fame that came with appearing on a show like BGT, also came the scrutiny about Calums personal life and past relationships with women.
Calum recalled: Thats when it became overwhelming for me. I struggled with my anxiety again and it was a really tough time.
I remember when we were going to release Dancing On My Own and I went into the record label crying to them that I was terrified people wouldnt support me anymore if they knew I was gay. Its silly looking back at it, but its that fear, that knot in your stomach that comes from people walking away from you. It was really tough.
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Fortunately, Calum did have the support of some Britains Got Talent judges – notably Alesha Dixon and David Walliams who reached out to the singer once the show had ended.
Calum revealed: I had a little bit of contact with David after the show. I also did with Alesha because Im friends with her partner [Azuka Ononye].
Id seen Alesha at the Brits when I was nominated for best British single and she couldnt speak anymore highly of me. She was so supportive about my music, my personal journey and it was really comforting because that dream started at Britains Got Talent so it was nice to hear from her.
The popstar added: I dont really have any horror stories of people giving me negativity. Ive been very lucky and surrounded by a lot of love.
I was supported so heavily and I think its because I was honest and people can see that. Theres no smoke and mirrors, no BS. Its paved the way for people to be confident themselves, its a beautiful thing.
Calum also has the ear of Sam Smith, who similarly came out shortly after his rise to fame in 2014.
Speaking highly of their friendship, Calum said: The thing with me and Sam is weve got very similar stories. We struggled with our sexualities growing up and even struggled in the industry and I think thats what made us close. He gave me a lot of advice about staying sane in the industry.
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He continued: When Id met him, hed finished album one, had toured it and was writing the second album. Hed been through that machine and had that instant overnight success and he helps me stay sane throughout my tour and promoting the album.
Since then hes been incredibly busy so we havent touched base in a while but hes there and its great to know that theres that person on the other end of the phone.
Im trying to give my fans the comfort that Sam gave me.
No Matter What features on the special edition of Sams debut album, Only Human, and is the pinnacle of his honest songwriting.
Its no wonder that Calums music is so emotive given that he takes inspiration from ballad queen Adele.
The singer explains: One thing I love about Adele is she wrote from the heart, she didnt suddenly do an R&B album.
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She kept it real and people know what theyre getting when they listen to Adele and I want to follow in those huge footprints.
The special edition of Calum Scotts debut album, Only Human, is available to buy and stream now with bonus tracks.
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