We chat to the iconic Sam Fox about what it’s like being an out gay woman in the music industry
There’s a brand new charity single out this Christmas featuring a TON of gay musicians and stars. All proceeds from Love is the Only Law go to the Albert Kennedy Trust, a non-profit charity that offers support to vulnerable young LGBT+ people.
Jason Reid got on the blower for a chat with one of the stars involved in the project, mega-babe, singer and songwriter, Samantha Fox…
Hi Sam! How did you get involved with Love is the Only Law?
I was asked by one of my best friends, Pete Martine from Sleaze Sisters who remixes a lot of my music. I instantly thought it was a great idea for a worthwhile cause and was more than happy to be involved. The track ties in with the 50th anniversary of the partial decriminalisation of homosexuality. Having well-known artists involved creates greater awareness and I’m all for that.
What the vibe of the single? And who else is involved?
It has a beautiful vibe and the lyrics are very touching. Regardless of sexuality or gender, you’ll understand the meaning of the song: love is love. There are so many talented people involved, such as June Brown, Jaymi Hensley, Marcus Collins, Tight Fit and many more.
For you personally, why is it important to mark the 50th anniversary of the partial decriminalisation of homosexuality?
It reminds us how far we have come as LGBT+ people. We should never forget that. If it weren’t for changes in attitudes, I may never have come out because I was so scared back in the day. We should celebrate, let people know, encourage others, and most importantly support young people who are coming to terms with their sexuality and coming out.
You came out publicly in 2003. What was that like for you, especially as someone in the public eye?
Thankfully the response was positive and I was supported by everyone. And the press were fine too. I was really apprehensive beforehand because I thought it would be bad. But I knew I couldn’t live a lie anymore.
How did you feel and how did family react?
I was SO relieved. My mum said she always knew because at Christmas I asked for things like season tickets for Arsenal, football boots and action men. She was great about it. Of course I had a little cry.
Back in 1983 you started out as a glamour model. Society was very different and the industry you were in catered primarily to straight men. Did you know you were gay then and how did you deal with those feelings?
I wasn’t sure of my sexuality at that time, because I had a boyfriend but had also dabbled. Society was very different and to be totally frank, I was scared because my work relied on selling newspapers, calendars and magazines. I just thought I hadn’t met the right man. Then I met the right woman: Linda.
Were there any gay people around you at that time?
Yes. Even in my glamour days I had a gay following. They’re very loyal and have stayed with me through all of my career. When I was young, my babysitter was disowned by his parents for being gay, so my mother took him in. We would go out to gay clubs together. Colin was part of my family. Sadly he died a few years ago. I loved him very much.
How about fellow gay people in the public eye? Do you have any gays idol?
Oh Jason, of COURSE! Boy George and George Michael – both iconic; Jodie Foster – I grew up watching her movies; Ellen Degeneres… And I used to have a huge crush on Lindsay Wagner from The Bionic Woman.
Good choices, similar to what I’d pick. Finally, what else are you up to at the moment?
My new book ‘Forever’ is out now in the UK, America, Sweden, and worldwide next year. I’m also currently working on my 11th album with Ian Masterson, who has produced for Dannii Minogue and Bananarama. It’s gonna be a really up, positive and eclectic album with some references to my life experiences. And don’t forget to download Love is the Only Law!
Love is the Only Law is available for download on iTunes, Google Play and Amazon from 15th December.
