In February of this year, I had the pleasure of interviewing Black trans rapper Cuee. We discussed his career, future hopes, and musical and transitional journeys, but one aspect of our interview particularly inspired me: his emphasis on joy. Despite the darkness the transgender community faces, Cuee stated, “I want people to hear my story…and be like, ‘Okay, there’s the joy.’” His music has certainly achieved this goal — joy is present throughout his discography, and he has once again musically embodied trans happiness in his latest single, “Proud Boi.”
How Concrete is Forever?: The Existentialism of Miley Cyrus’ “Endless Summer Vacation”
The world’s favorite openly pansexual pop star is back with new music, as Miley Cyrus’ highly anticipated eighth studio album “Endless Summer Vacation” was released on March 10. Since the record’s official announcement in January, Cyrus has remained fairly elusive, even while her dance-infused self-love anthem “Flowers” reigned atop the Billboard Hot 100 for eight weeks. In her first full-length LP since 2020’s critically acclaimed “Plastic Hearts,” Cyrus exhibits an elevated level of pensiveness and rumination on her latest project’s twelve songs.
Queer Next Up: Atom Fellows
Atom Fellows (they/them) is a musician/filmmaker and YouTuber whose show, The Anarchy Funhouse, tackles the world’s most intractable issues using music, animation and puppets!
Welcome To Myylo’s World, Say “Ahh”
Myylo is the sonic equivalent of someone wrapping you in their arms. An independent artist and songwriter who blends pop, country, and folk, he provides a refreshing, lighthearted take on the ins and outs of falling in love as a queer person. Following a string of EPs and singles, including the playful “Kissing On Your Dad” and notable cuts with Zolita, Dorian Electra, JORDY, and That Kid, Myylo released his debut album, “Ahh,” in December of 2022.
Queer Indie Magic: A Tour Through boygenius’ Debut LP “the record” and “the film”
While we often see bands and musical groups split up to allow for the rise of one member, it’s not as common to see the opposite, where separate, successful, independent artists come together to form a group. However, when this rare occurrence takes place, it can create something amazing. Such is the case with the indie rock group boygenius, stylized in all lowercase. Composed of some of the most famous names in the indie/queer music scene, Julien Baker, Phoebe Bridgers, and Lucy Dacus started boygenius in 2018. The three artists came together as friends and decided to make music together before they all set off on tour.
“I Know You Want Some”: A Review of Club Eat’s Electropop “Bubblegum”
The 2010s was one of the greatest eras that music has ever seen, where bubbly pop reigned supreme and the music at nightclubs peaked in quality. Though I will listen to virtually any kind of music, I’m a sucker for anything with an infectious, danceable groove and a catchy melody. While not technically a 2010s-era pop duo, Club Eat’s single “Bubblegum” takes me back to those glory days. “Bubblegum” is an electronic pop song with wistful lyrics that capture the feeling of being used through the metaphor of chewed-up bubblegum. Cloaked in synth and saturated in glitter, the track pulsates with its relentlessly upbeat groove.
Queer Next Up: Jxckson
Jxckson (he/him) is an Austin-based alt-pop artist who seamlessly blends elements of different genres of Pop to create a fresh and modern sound that still pays homage to the classic earworms of the past. His delivery, complete with a sly smirk, adds an extra layer of attitude and swagger to every track.
Annelle Staal: Now Streaming
When most people think of the popular live streaming platform Twitch, they think of “Fortnite” fiends or online chess tournaments. The platform, however, is also a thriving hub for musicians who put on powerful performances for eager audiences, live from their bedrooms. Annelle Staal, who boasts nearly 60 thousand followers, is one such savant.
Queer Next Up: D’Andre Adonis
D’Andre Adonis (he/him) is a recording artist. With a mesh of R&B, Hip Hop and Pop with a sound that still has its own character, D’Andre Adonis has one goal: to make you feel something when you listen to his music. Based in his hometown of Chicago, IL he takes pride in his city and loves to grow with his peers.
Queer Next Up: SHILPA
SHILPA (she/her) is an independent musician from Los Angeles, California. She writes funk, neo-soul, and indie tunes, often touching on complex emotions and themes of growth and solitude. She recently released her debut single, a touching homage to her grandmother — this song features poetic, lyrical writing, and is the first project of many more to come.