Sufjan Stevens dedicates new album to late ‘beloved partner’
"He was an absolute gem of a person, full of life, love, laughter, curiosity, integrity, and joy"
The singer-songwriter, Sufjan Stevens, has dedicated his latest album to his late “beloved partner” in an endearing message.
Javelin was released on Friday (6 October) and is the tenth studio album from the American musician.
Posting on Instagram on Friday, Stevens shared an image of Evans Richardson, who he described as “the light of my life, my beloved partner and best friend.” Richardson sadly passed away last April.
“He was an absolute gem of a person, full of life, love, laughter, curiosity, integrity, and joy,” Stevens continued. “He was one of those rare and beautiful ones you find only once in a lifetime—precious, impeccable, and absolutely exceptional in every way.”
Reflecting on relationships, Stevens recognised they can be “very difficult sometimes,” but added that “it’s always worth it to put in the hard work and care for the ones you love, especially the beautiful ones, who are few and far between.”
He went on to say: “If you happen to find that kind of love, hold it close, hold it tight, savor it, tend to it, and give it everything you’ve got, especially in times of trouble. Be kind, be strong, be patient, be forgiving, be vigorous, be wise, and be yourself.
“Live every day as if it is your last, with fullness and grace, with reverence and love, with gratitude and joy. This is the day the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it.”
It appears to have been the first time Stevens has addressed his sexuality.
Stevens may be familiar to many already, as he also wrote the song ‘Mystery of Love’ for the 2017 film, Call Me By Your Name.
Javelin is streaming now.