After much anticipation--when the album first became available for pre-order, it shot straight to the top spot on iTunes in ten countries--Blue Neighbourhood has finally arrived. Expanding upon the six songs released as part of an EP, Wild, earlier this fall, the Australian-based YouTube sensation's debut feature length album is the culmination of years of writing and producing.
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Sivan accumulated his many millions of devoted fans by sharing aspects of his personal life across various social media platforms. In his music, the 20-year-old has found a way to go deeper, offering new and even more intimate insight. In particular, Sivan lays himself bare in 'Heaven,' featuring Betty Who, a moving tribute to his journey towards self-acceptance.
Sivan, who was raised in a culturally Jewish family, struggled to reconcile the teachings of his faith with his growing awareness of his sexuality when he was around 14-years-old, News.com.au reports. In a short teaser video, Sivan explains in greater detail:
"When I first started to realize that I might be gay, I had to ask myself all these questions--these really really terrifying questions. Am I ever going to find someone? Am I ever going to be able to have a family? If there is a God, does that God hate? If there is a heaven, am I ever going to make it to heaven?"
As he came to embrace who he was, Sivan goes on to say he realized:
"If there is a heaven, but I can't be myself up there, then maybe I don't want heaven."
Watch below:
Blue Neighbourhood is now available for purchase worldwide.