Troye Sivan Reveals Lil Nas X Inspired Him to Be More Unapologetically Himself

A Conversation That Sparked Headlines

In a candid conversation on Proud Radio with Hattie Collins, global pop star Troye Sivan opened up about his new album, his journey through heartbreak, and his personal growth as an artist. While promoting his record Something To Give Each Other in London, Sivan discussed how the writing process helped him rediscover himself and reconnect with the world after the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic.

But perhaps the most striking revelation was when Sivan admitted that he drew significant inspiration from Lil Nas X. The rapper’s boldness and fearless approach to artistry encouraged Sivan to embrace being unapologetically himself.

Troye Sivan on Rediscovering His Voice

During the interview, Sivan explained that writing his latest project began in a very uncertain time. Like many, he experienced the ups and downs of pandemic lockdowns. Yet, in the small windows of freedom, he reconnected with people and music in a way that felt transformative.

“I started writing it during COVID, in between lockdowns, when we would get this freedom,” he shared. “I started to feel so unbelievably grateful and moved by just being able to connect with people again. Whether it’s dancing on a dance floor, that just felt so euphoric and spiritual.”

For Sivan, the new album isn’t just a collection of songs. It represents a warm, joyous, and introspective journey—one that combines moments of celebration with deeply personal reflections.

The Meaning of Authentic Expression

One of the central themes Sivan addressed was the concept of freedom in expression. He described queerness not as a rigid definition, but as a space free from imposed rules and structures. This, he explained, created a strong sense of community and belonging for him.

“It removes all of the rules or structures that maybe have typically been imposed on us for a really long time, and I think it brings a real sense of freedom,” Sivan reflected. “I also think it just brings a massive sense of community. I think that people anywhere should be looking after each other everywhere, and I love that.”

His comments underscore a message that resonates beyond music: the value of authenticity, connection, and collective support.

Coming Out and Finding Support

Sivan acknowledged that his own journey to openness was smoother than it is for many others. He described his experience as “extraordinarily privileged,” thanks to his supportive family and friends. Once he came out to those closest to him, he felt a new sense of liberation.

“I always felt once that was out of the way, and I was out to my parents and I was out to my siblings and my friends, I was like, ‘Okay, well, I don’t really have anything to lose because I’ve got that.’ So that really freed me up to explore,” he explained.

This freedom, however, did not mean he was always as authentic in public as he wanted to be. Over the years, Sivan admitted, he sometimes censored himself, tried to play it safe, or avoided fully embracing who he was.

Lil Nas X as a Source of Inspiration

Enter Lil Nas X. Known for his boundary-pushing performances, unapologetic personality, and innovative artistry, the rapper provided a spark that Sivan needed.

“Honestly, seeing artists like Lil Nas X, who just was so unafraid of taking up space and doing honestly the same thing that all the other pop stars are doing—but just doing it his way, with so much fun—I was really, really inspired by that,” Sivan said.

This acknowledgment highlights the power of representation in music. Lil Nas X’s success and confidence gave Sivan a clear example that he, too, could embrace his artistic vision without hesitation.

“Why can’t I do whatever I want as well?” Sivan recalled asking himself. From that point on, he decided to move forward with a mindset of freedom and boldness.

Troye Sivan’s Evolution as an Artist

Sivan’s career has been marked by versatility. From his beginnings on YouTube and acting roles to his transformation into a full-fledged pop star, his journey has been one of continuous growth. His debut album Blue Neighbourhood introduced the world to his signature emotional style, while Bloom cemented his place as a global star.

With Something To Give Each Other, Sivan is showing fans yet another layer of his artistry. It’s not just about catchy hooks or chart success—it’s about delivering music that feels authentic, joyous, and deeply personal.

Lil Nas X’s influence can be felt not only in the confidence with which Sivan approaches his new project but also in the way he communicates his story with fans.

Why Representation in Pop Music Matters

The music industry thrives on diversity of voices and experiences. Figures like Troye Sivan and Lil Nas X are reshaping what it means to be a global pop artist. Their openness, creativity, and refusal to conform to outdated standards resonate with millions of listeners worldwide.

By highlighting Lil Nas X’s role in his own journey, Sivan emphasized an important point: representation matters. When one artist is fearless enough to live authentically, it empowers others to do the same.

The Global Impact of Lil Nas X’s Influence

Lil Nas X has already left a permanent mark on the music industry. His breakthrough hit Old Town Road broke records, but it was his willingness to be bold and creative afterward that solidified his influence. From dazzling award show performances to innovative music videos, he showed that success in music doesn’t require fitting into narrow expectations.

For peers like Sivan, this was more than just entertainment—it was a call to action. Watching Lil Nas X succeed on his own terms demonstrated that authenticity could coexist with mainstream stardom.

Troye Sivan’s Message to Fans

As Sivan continues to promote his album and share his story, his message is clear: authenticity leads to freedom. His willingness to be candid about his inspirations, challenges, and growth makes his music even more relatable.

Fans are not only drawn to his melodies but also to his honesty. By admitting his past hesitations and celebrating the influence of others like Lil Nas X, Sivan invites his audience to reflect on their own journeys of self-expression.

Looking Ahead

The release of Something To Give Each Other marks another milestone in Troye Sivan’s career. With a refreshed mindset and renewed confidence, he is stepping into this era with openness and artistic bravery.

His story with Lil Nas X’s influence is just one example of how artists inspire each other across genres and backgrounds. As both stars continue to evolve, their impact will undoubtedly extend far beyond music charts.

Conclusion

Troye Sivan’s revelation that Lil Nas X inspired him to be more unapologetically himself is more than just a headline—it’s a testament to the importance of representation, authenticity, and artistic courage.

By sharing his experiences, Sivan not only celebrates his own growth but also acknowledges the ripple effect of confidence and creativity in the music industry. His album Something To Give Each Other stands as a product of this renewed spirit, a celebration of joy, connection, and truth.

As fans embrace both Sivan and Lil Nas X, one thing is clear: their voices are reshaping pop culture and encouraging a new generation of artists and listeners to live boldly, without fear, and without compromise.