Gay Music: In the Key of Q
Dan Hall
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Music-loving gay podcast. The best bi and gay music from around the world featuring insightful and inspiring conversations with Queer musicians.
Episodes drop weekly and are 30-40 minutes in length, celebrating LGBTQ identity, tunes and stories.
Presented by Dan Hall (producer, BBC’s Freddie Mercury: The Final Act) and produced by Pup Media.
Available episodes
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Jun 6, 2022
Don+: Hip Hop, Islam and The Golden Girls
Welcome to In the Key of Q the weekly podcast where I chat with inspiring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music.
Don+ is an independent artist and writer who has been writing and making music since 2013. He gained recognition with his first EP Raw Rhythm and Words (Apple / Spotify), which debuted in the top 40 on the iTunes RnB charts.
He grew up in a house surrounded by music, from Luther Vandross to gospel and learned to make peace with the homophobia in some of Hip Hop. With loved artists such as R Kelly it was tough to separate the music from the man.
Christianity and Islam were highly influential, not an easy combo for a Black kid growing up in America's South. Despite attacks from many religious sides, he went on to find peace in his own sense of spirituality.
After testing HIV+ in what he thought was a monogamous relationship, Don+ took this news and ran with it. He became an advocate for people with HIV, giving lessons in schools to fight ignorance and stigma.Additional Material
* Don+ on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube
* Don+ on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram
* Advice for newly diagnosed HIV-positive people from THT.
* Managing being LGBTQ and Muslim.
If you enjoyed this episode why not take a listen to Blake Mundell.
In the Key of Q is a weekly 30-40 minute podcast publishing every Tuesday. I’m your host Dan Hall, and in each episode, I chat candidly with a gay/bi musician about their life and music.
Access exclusive interview content and support the production of this podcast by heading over to Petreon and making a small donation.
Enjoy the music of previous guests by listening to these playlists with tracks selected by the artists...
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May 30, 2022
Taylor Gray: Bullies, Addiction & Black AF
Taylor Gray is this week’s guest. He is an R&B artist based in Los Angeles and curator of the popular playlist "Flavor Waves" on Apple Music and Spotify, which has garnered the attention of artists such as Victoria Monét and Ro James.
* (1:22) Highlight - Gray talks about his childhood musical influences, growing up in a house playing neverending Prince, Chaka Kahn, Michael Jackson, Toni Braxton, Anita Baker and Luther Vandross. And of course the wonderful Miss Whitney Houston.
* (15:23) Highlight - But childhood wasn’t all perfect as Gray reveals the frequent bullying he experienced at school and how this affected his self-esteem even outside of the school gates.
* (7:14) Highlight - We chat about how mainstream music still wants “The Gays” to be either sex-crazed EDM dance-heads, or castrated shame-muffins. And how at the point of Black and Queer intersectionality there is often an outside fetishisation of race. Reference is made here to The IZM whose episode can be heard here.
* (16:42) Highlight - Anxiety and addiction are disproportionately represented within the LGBTQ community, and Gray discusses his relationship with both explaining how a recent journey into sobriety has already paid dividends in self-worth and musical creation.
* (23:42) Highlight - In his platform piece, Gray talks about the importance of feeling like we belong in a family. And that family can be biological or logical.
* (26.23) Highlight - Hand-picked recommendations from within the Queer community for other artists for us to enjoy. Many of them can be found on Gray’s playlist “Black & Queer AF” volumes 1 (Spotify) and 2 (Spotify). Of course alumni FURILLOSTAR gets a mention, and you can hear his episode here.
Here are some useful resources around bullying at school. Stonewall’s toolkit for secondary schools (high schools) and STOMP Out Bullying.
Support resources for anxiety can be found at the
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May 23, 2022
Billy Mick: Cocaine, Toxic Masculinity & Dinner Theatre
Welcome to In the Key of Q the weekly podcast where I chat with inspiring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music.
Billy Mick released his first single in 2019. He's performed at Pride and Gay Days events. And in America's pandemic lockdown continued to release songs and music videos. The autobiographical studio album Just Be came out in 2020, followed up by the long-player Levelling Up.
Billy speaks openly in this episode about the challenges of growing up in a household with a father who was both a drug dealer and a bullying influence on the family home. Eventually, Billy escapes into adulthood and performing dinner theatre and on the stages of Universal's theme park in Florida.
A surprise HIV diagnosis eventually leads to hospitalisation and a near-death coma. But emerging from this crisis point Billy's life begins all over again and he goes on to produce some amazing tunes.
He is passionate about the queer community, embracing the ethos of Manchester Pride in the UK. Here he witnessed what he describes as a true community where sub-groups did not disappear into their own silos, and instead mixed and enjoyed each other's strength and power. It’s how he feels out community should be.Additional Material
* Billy on Spotify, Apple Music, Bandcamp, YouTube, Soundcloud
* Billyon Twitter, Facebook, Instagram
* Billy's homepage
If you enjoyed this episode why not take a listen to Daddy Dawg.
In the Key of Q is a weekly 30-40 minute podcast publishing every Tuesday. I’m your host Dan Hall, and in each episode, I chat candidly with a gay/bi musician about their life and music.
Access exclusive interview content and support the production of this podcast by heading over to Petreon and making a small donation.
Enjoy the music of previous guests by listening to these playlists with tracks selected by the artists themselves.Credits
* The podcast can be reached on email and on social media at Twitter, Instagram and...
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May 16, 2022
Levi Kreis: Church, Chems and Tony Awards
Welcome to In the Key of Q the weekly podcast where I chat with inspiring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music.
Levi Kreis is a multi-award winner. Having gathered himself awards from Critic's Circle, Out Music, and most excitingly, the Tony's. Born in Oliver Springs, Tennessee his music features a fusion of styles influenced by gospel, country, bluegrass, and even rockabilly.
He says of his career, "I've always believed that our mess is our ministry. I may be more candid than the next guy about my obstacles and struggles. I am not interested in painting a perfect picture for the world to see not when people all around me need to know how to turn their pain into personal power. The driving force behind all that I do is narrow and define. I want to heal."
Even as a kid Levi had an eye for business. When offered a dollar to sing in the church for God, he suggests off the bat that given two he'd sing for Jesus as well! His deep relationship with the church and his amazing voice he was offered a lucrative gospel record contract. The contract vanished when he was outed by a betrayal within the church. Maybe it wasn't a bad thing as from the age of eight it taught him that his queerness was "detestable in the eye of god".
Falling into a domestically abusive relationship, Levi's mother works out that his violent "flatmate" is actually his lover. Whilst she appears to rescue him from harm's way, she resolves the 'rescue' with a promise that his devilish homosexual ways will lead to an AIDS diagnosis and death.
In search of community Kreis falls into the artificial comfort of crystal meth, and as his addiction grows he somehow manages to win a Tony Award in 2010.
Eventually breaking free from addiction he makes beautiful peace with his mistakes, his demons and wrong turns. "The truth is every pain brings you to power. Every mess is your voice to the world, and we need your voice." He is a true believer in the nature of things; the pattern of life.
His career has since continued to grow including a duet with alumni QBoy and a lead role in the US touring production of Hadestown.
Additional Material
* Levi on Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, Bandcamp, YouTube
* Levi on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram
* Levi
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May 9, 2022
SonicFluxx: NASA, Synths and Mental Illness
Welcome to In the Key of Q the weekly podcast where I chat with inspiring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music.
Sonicfluxx was born and raised in Florida in the United States. And in January 2020, his first single Nothing Will Ever Be the Same debuted at number two in the UK's LGBTQ charts. Quickly following this success was the release of his debut EP, Nostalgia.
His premier performance on stage was at only one-month-old playing Jesus - a tough opening act to follow!
Growing up in Melbourne, Florida just a stone's throw from Cocoa Beach and NASA's HQ he grew up seeing launch after launch into space. This was a town where people didn't dream of becoming doctors or lawyers, they aspired to the stars.
The 1980s sound is hugely appealing to Sonicfluxx, even through he was only a nipper during its reign. The simpler synth sounds appeal to him more than today's complex, multi-layered some might say over-produced tracks.
He speaks candidly in the episode about his music helps him manage depression and mental illness, and how very important it is for queer people to see themselves reflected back in art forms. As with many of us, he cites Russell T Davies' Queer As Folk as a fixed point in time of seared identity.
Sonicfluxx's stylish merch store has also launched, and lucky listeners of this podcast get a 20% discount when entering the discount code INTHEKEYOFQ. This deal does not expire and can be used again and again! Shipping is free worldwide.Additional Material
* SonicFluxx on Spotify, Bandsintown, Apple Music, YouTube, TIDAL
* SonicFluxx on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram
* SonicFluxx homepage
* SonicFluxx merch (remember to use discount code INTHEKEYOFQ).
If you enjoyed this episode why not take a listen to
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May 2, 2022
Xantheartist: Kanye, Military & Self-Defence
Welcome to In the Key of Q the weekly podcast where I chat with inspiring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music.
Xantheartist counts an impressive hundred thousand streams on Spotify. He's only three years into his music career, but has already secured a number one record with his cover Hapsburg Lippp. Before transitioning to a man, he served in the US military and went on to make a considerable name for himself on the drag king circuit.
He grew up in a household with Nirvana, Phil Collins, New Edition and Luther Vandross pumping from the family hifi. The home was of military stock, and during his childhood his father was deployed in the first Iraq war. The strict household and challenges around gender identity dropped PTSD on Xan, which is being worked through today with counseling.
Accidental encounters showed Xan that he was an excellent performer, both as a rapper and drag king. He increasingly felt the drag king persona was closer to his genuine identity and went onto transition, female-to-male. He speaks eloquently about the importance to avoid mis-gendering, and the hurt this can cause.
He speaks passionately about the importance of self-denfence for the LGBTQ community and especially within the QPOC community. 'You can walk with your head high and confidently knowing that you can defend yourself against anything. 'Additional Material
* Xantheartist on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube
* Xantheartist on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok
* Xantheartist merch
* Xantheartist homepage
If you enjoyed this episode why not take a listen to
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Apr 25, 2022
Matthew and the Keys: Potter, Madonna and Silenced BIPOC
Welcome to In the Key of Q the weekly podcast where I chat with inspiring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music.
This week's guest is from Edmonton, Alberta in Canada. His music combines personal experiences, passion, and is inspired by artists as varied as Vanessa Carlton, John Mayer and Metric. He is an educator, a model, and an actor. He's sung since the age of two and has written songs since he was 12.
Despite being a shy kid, Matthew couldn't stop his love of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles from escaping out. And he'd tell anyone who'd listen about Leonardo, Raphael, Donatello and Michelangelo - those heroes in a half shell. And of course, he'd run around the house singing the theme.
His home was beautifully musical with Soul, Hip Hop, Rap and R&B blending with the tunes of Abba's Waterloo, Fernando and SOS.
As an adult, he is frustrated how the gay community can be bad at looking after its own. And how we can often be blind to the silencing of BIPOC of LGBTQ voices. He out and proud music most definitely moves towards that, even more so with the release of his new album Victory (Produced by Brett Reed).Additional Material
* Matthew on Spotify, Apple Music, Bandcamp, YouTube
* Matthew on Twitter, Instagram
* Matthew's homepage
If you enjoyed this episode why not take a listen to Andy Pisanu ("Memory Flowers").
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Apr 18, 2022
Dead Method: Femme, Feelings and Welsh Resilience
Welcome to In the Key of Q the weekly podcast where I chat with inspiring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music.
Lloyd Best performing as Dead Method is an alternative pop artist based in Cardiff, Wales. They started a solo career in 2018 and they've gone on to support 65 Days of Static and Public Service Broadcasting. In 2020, their debut album Queer Genesis was released, an exploration of queer culture and identity.
The sceptre of Section 28 hung over his upbringing as merciless homophobic bullying went unchecked in his Welsh Catholic school. Despite the comfort and support of a loving home the experience and failure of teachers to act in loco parentis still scar him today.
Despite growing up in the country's capital city of Cardiff he faced narrow-minded attitudes towards his sexuality. Perhaps surprisingly these were present in the city's music industry too which left him feeling small and silenced.
Thankfully he found his tribe as so many of us do, which allowed him not only to blossom as a musician but also as a queer man. This is shown no better than in his empowering and catchy new album release, Femme.Additional Material
* Dealing with homophobic bullying at school from Stonewall.
* Dead Method on Spotify, Apple Music, Bandcamp, YouTube
* Dead Method on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok
* Dead Method homepage
If you enjoyed this episode why not take a listen to Daniel Versus the World.
In the Key of Q is a weekly 30-40 minute podcast publishing every Tuesday. I’m your host Dan Hall, and in each episode, I chat candidly with a gay/bi musician about their life and music.
Access exclusive...
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Apr 11, 2022
Gentleman Reg: Nomad, Underground & Military Brat
Welcome to In the Key of Q the weekly podcast where I chat with inspiring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music.
Gentleman Reg hails from Toronto in Canada. He's a singer songwriter, drag artist, DJ and makeup artist. He has released seven full-length albums with various bands, including Light Fires, and Regina Gently. A former member of the group Hidden Cameras, Reg has also sung is also sung with Broken Social Scene and Owen Pallett.
Intriguingly he also had a cameo in the film Shortbus, which this year sees a rerelease.
Reg had a nomadic upbringing. With a military pilot father, he grew up in both Germany and Canada. Eventually settling in the small town of Guelph he found himself surrounded by music, not least because of the indie-celebrating festival, Hillside.
Eventually releasing his own music, he worked with many different bands and guises including the highly popular Hidden Cameras.
He has a striking look with white hair and pale skin, and eventually learned to embrace people's wrong assumption that he was albino. And as the effeminate kid in school, from an early age he learned to roll with is Otherness.
Gentleman Reg embraced online living during the pandemic and found himself not only entertaining his old audience but swathes of new people who never usually visited bars. He is an advocate of the alternative side of the queer scene, and this was a natural extension of that, reaching audiences for whom mainstream queer living mostly ignored.Additional Material
* Gentleman Reg on Spotify, Apple Music, Bandcamp
* Gentleman Reg on Twitter, Instagram
* Gentleman Reg homepage
If you enjoyed this episode why not take a listen to Nick Vaan.
In the Key of Q is a weekly 30-40 minute podcast publishing every Tuesday. I’m your host Dan Hall, and in each episode, I chat candidly with a...
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Apr 4, 2022
A-Natural: Homelessness, Rape and Conversations with God
Welcome to In the Key of Q the weekly podcast where I chat with inspiring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music.
A-Natural founded Natural City Music recording label and has himself won two international independent music awards. He's opened for T-Pain and has written and produced for multiple major artists. In 2020 he released the album, 'Kwame', a seminal autobiographical piece in 12 tracks.
Gospel church music has been hugely influential on A-Natural with the church being very present throughout his upbringing. B Slade (formerly Tonex) is mentioned as a particular inspiration - a "gospel Prince"!
Coming into college A-Natural discovered new kinds of music and went into writing and performing his own material. But the task is not easy, and as a friend of his said, musicians sacrificed their lives so that everyone can have a soundtrack to theirs.
He faces the challenges of being Black, American, Queer and Christian helped particularly by the book Conversations with God by Neale Donald Walsch. He tells us, Faith doesn't just have to be about God. Faith is about understanding that the things that you want for your life can come to pass. If you just believe.
After a period of homelessness he gets onto his feet, but is raped on the night he loses his virginity. It's a traumatic memory that has laid dormant until viewing the BBC show 'I May Destroy You' by Michaela Coel in which the character Kwame experiences a similar experience.
He goes on to plea for musicians to give themselves time and space to be creative; to allow themselves to make their art and not just 'content'. He says with sadness, We're demanded to be these caricatures of ourselves. And we get exhausted and burnt out trying to please an algorithm that really doesn't know who we are.
Additional Material
* A-Natural's homepage.
* A-Natural on Twitter and Instagram.
* A-Natural on Spotify and Apple Music.
* Leaflet providing assistance to those affected by sexual violence.
* Help after rape and sexual assault from the NHS.
If you enjoyed this episode why not...
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Mar 28, 2022
Benjamin Stewart: Gender, Soundscapes & Lucid Dreams
Welcome to In the Key of Q the weekly podcast where I chat with inspiring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music.
Benjamin Stewart has been making music for over 10 years and has written and recorded since the age of 12. They define as non-binary. Living an authentic life in America's Mississippi state.
In November 2021 they released the album 'Spaces', a dystopian electronic eight-track instrumental work.
Benjamin is constantly inspired by the everyday, accidental rhythms around them such as the weekly fire alarm test in their complex. These lead to the creation of their long, complex instrumental pieces that are both edgy and relaxing. Listen with headphones! The music will take you into another world.
Further inspiration is taken from within as Benjamin talks about lucid dreaming and the remarkable way that they have managed to teach themselves the skill to regularly achieve it. It's all about habit, hands and a candle…
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Mar 21, 2022
Brandon James Gwinn: Broadway, Tumbleweed and Tori Spelling
Welcome to In the Key of Q the weekly podcast where I chat with inspiring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music.
This week's guest is Brandon James Gwinn, a Live Nation touring artist and Billboard number one indie music producer. He won the Richard Rogers award for musical theater writing. Previous winners include such illustrious alumni as Rent's Jonathan Larson. His most recent album Bullit is a rock delight with glorious splashes of Hedwick, Scissor Sisters, and musical theatre.
Lock two gay men on a call and it is inevitable that within a minute they mention Bernadette Peters. But not to be outdone we also get Better Midler, Katherine Hepburn and Moss Hart in there too!
Brandon talks about the creatively restrictive living of smalltown Murfreesboro, TN. But despite this, his parents and grandfolks managed to fill the family home with REO Speedwagon, the Eagles, Eighties Pop, Glenn Miller and Billie Holiday. With such…
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Mar 14, 2022
QBoy: Bullies, HIV & Victoria Wood
Welcome to In the Key of Q the weekly podcast where I chat with inspiring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music.
This week's guest is QBoy. Born Marcos Brito he is a DJ, music artist, producer, rapper, and dancer. He was raised in Basildon, Essex and La Gomera, Canary Islands, being of half-British, half-Gomeran descent.
He has five independent releases under his belt, he has helped lead the way for diversity and inclusion within the LGBTQ community and hip-hop. At present, he is co-promoter and DJ at popular club night 'R & She: The Queens Of Hip-Hop' which now in its 8th year has featured sets by DJ Spinderella of Salt-N-Pepa and Mel Blatt of All Saints.
QBoy also has a weekly residency at London's megaclub Heaven and also plays regularly for The Ned and Ace Hotel London.
In the episode, QBoy chats about his love of rapping, how he loves that it carries the visceral energy of youth. We touch on Section 28 and…
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Mar 7, 2022
Feed Takeover! The Song Surfing Podcast
Welcome to In the Key of Q the weekly podcast where I chat with inspiring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music.
This week we're taken over by the Song Surfing podcast! It's a music discovery podcast showcasing the best indie music from around the world! Hear an eclectic mix of music spanning many genres and discover your next favorite artist.
In the Key of Q is a weekly 30-40 minute podcast publishing every Tuesday. I’m your host Dan Hall, and in each episode, I chat candidly with a gay/bi musician about their life and music.
Access exclusive interview content and support the production of this podcast by heading over to Petreon and making a small donation.
Enjoy the music of previous guests by listening to these playlists with tracks selected by the artists themselves.Credits
* The podcast can be reached on email and on social media at Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. The podcast’s forever home can be found…
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Feb 28, 2022
Paul Andrews - Revisited
Welcome to In the Key of Q the weekly podcast where I chat with inspiring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music.
Featuring new material made public for the first time, LGBTQ singer Paul Andrews discusses his five favourite songs plus the one track that he'd chosen as a gateway song into his catalogue.
Series 2 of In the Key of Q is scheduled to appear on 15 March 2022. Please click here for more information regarding the delay.Additional Material
* Paul on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram
* Paul's homepage
In the Key of Q is a weekly 30-40 minute podcast publishing every Tuesday. I’m your host Dan Hall, and in each episode, I chat candidly with a gay/bi musician about their life and music.
Access exclusive interview content and support the production of this podcast by heading over to Petreon and making a small donation.
Enjoy the music of previous guests by listening to these playlists with tracks selected by the…
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Feb 27, 2022
A Message about Series 2
A message from presenter and producer Dan Hall about series 2.
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Feb 21, 2022
Catch-Up with Ty McKinnie
Welcome to In the Key of Q the weekly podcast where I chat with inspiring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music.
Just one week until the launch of Season 2 with QBoy!
But until then pull up a chair and listen in on TyMcKinnie and I talking gentrification, COVID and dating, not dating, dating, not dating, definitely not dating, but sort of dating... :-)Additional Material
* Hear Ty's original episode here!
* Ty guests on the pod's two Black Queer America specials: Part 1 & Part 2.
* Ty on Spotify, Apple Music, Bandcamp, YouTube, TIDAL
* Ty on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok
* Ty's homepage
Ty mentions queer artists in this episode. Take a listen to their episodes - The IZM and FURILLOSTAR.
In the Key of Q is a weekly 30-40 minute podcast publishing every Tuesday. I’m your host Dan Hall, and in each episode, I chat candidly with a gay/bi musician about their life and music.
Access exclusive interview c…
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Feb 14, 2022
Jsky - Revisited
Featuring new material made public for the first time, LGBTQ singer Jsky discusses his five favourite songs plus the one track that he'd chosen as a gateway song into his catalogue.
Series 2 of In the Key of Q will begin on 1 March 2022.
Links:
* Episode transcription.
* Jsky’s choices: Deniece Williams, Pavarotti, Jocelyn Brown, Larry Heard
* Jsky’s homepage.
* Jsky’s blog.
* Jsky on Twitter, Insta, Facebook and YouTube.
* Jsky’s podcast.
* In the Key of Q composer Paul Leonidou’s online home.
Please subscribe to the podcast, rate and review. And spread the word!
You can find us on Twitter and Instagram and join the community over on Facebook.
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Feb 7, 2022
Wuhryn Dumas - Revisited
Featuring new material made public for the first time, LGBTQ singer Wuhryn Dumas discusses his five favourite songs plus the one track that he'd chosen as a gateway song into his catalogue.
Series 2 of In the Key of Q will begin on 1 March 2022.
Links:
* Transcript.
* Wuhryn’s homepage.
* Wuhryn on: Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, SoundCloud, Amazon Music, Tidal, Napster.
* Wuhryn’s choices: Beyonce, Michael Jackson, Prince, Wuhryn Dumas, Solange.
* Wuhryn’s gateway track: 2U.
* In the Key of Q composer Paul Leonidou’s online home.
Please subscribe to the podcast, rate and review. And spread the word!
You can find us on Twitter and Instagram and join the community over on Facebook.
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Jan 31, 2022
Brendan Maclean - Revisited
Featuring new material made public for the first time, LGBTQ singer Brendan Maclean discusses his five favourite songs plus the one track that he'd chosen as a gateway song into his catalogue.
Series 2 of In the Key of Q will begin on 1 March 2022.
Links:
* Show transcript.
* Brendan at Bandcamp, Facebook, Twitter, Spotify, YouTube.
* Brendan on Patreon.
* Brendan’s choices: Rufus Wainwright, Moloko, Frank Ocean, Years and Years.
* Other references: Common People (Pulp), Champagne Charlie (“Champagne!”), Ode To a Gym Teacher.
* Brendan’s Gateway Song, Stupid.
* In the Key of Q composer Paul Leonidou’s online home.
Please subscribe to the podcast, rate and review. And spread the word!
You can find us on Twitter and Instagram and join the community over on Facebook.
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Jan 24, 2022
SADBOY - Revisited
Featuring new material made public for the first time, Hip-Hop artist SADBOY discusses his five favourite songs plus the one track that he'd chosen as a gateway song into his catalogue.
Series 2 of In the Key of Q will begin on 1 March 2022.
Links:
* SADBOY‘s forever home online.
* Episode
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Jan 17, 2022
Blake Mundel - Revisited
Featuring new material made public for the first time, LGBTQ singer Blake Mundel (aka Courier) discusses his five favourite songs plus the one track that he'd chosen as a gateway song into his catalogue.
Series 2 of In the Key of Q will begin on 1 March 2022.
Links:
* Blake’s forever home online.
* Show transcript.
* Blake (as Courier) and his video in which “a black man can go out for a jog and make it home”.
* Inspirational gay NFL players at Casino.org.
* Blake's chosen artists: Beyonce, Paul Simon, Sufjan, James Taylor, Chance the Rapper
* Blake's chosen song: San Francisco.
* In the Key of Q composer Paul Leonidou’s online home.
Please subscribe to the podcast, rate and review. And spread the word!
You can find us on Twitter and Instagram and join the community over on Facebook.
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Jan 11, 2022
Furillostar - new music!
In this bonus mini-episode, Flint-based alumni Furillostar introduces his new single, DWNLD which drops today. And as ever, a London shout-out to Mamma Star!
* Episode transcription here.
* FURILLOSTAR’s linktree can be found here.
* His full Key of Q interview can be found here.
* In The Key of Q publishes every Tuesday (‘Quesday’) and is available at inthekeyofq.com, on Apple, Spotify, Google, Stitcher, Gaana, TuneIn, Overcast, PlayerFM, Deezer, Saavn and most other podcast platforms. Its social media homes are on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
Series 2 of In the Key of Q drops in March 2022.
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Jan 10, 2022
Aruan Duval - Revisited
Featuring new material made public for the first time, pop singer Aruan Duval discusses his five favourite songs plus the one track that he'd chosen as a gateway song into his catalogue.
Series 2 of In the Key of Q will begin on 1 March 2022.
* Support the podcast at our Patreon page for as little as £3 per month.
* Transcript here.
* Aruan’s band Furiku on Spotify and Apple Music.
* Aruan on Spotify and Apple Music.
* Aruan's chosen artists: Prince, David Bowie, Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, Madonna
* Aruan's gateway song, Go-Go.
* “A Brief History of Prince” from The Beat Goes On
* In the Key of Q composer Paul Leonidou’s online home.
Please subscribe to the podcast, rate and review. And spread the word!
You can find us on Twitter and Instagram and join the community over on Facebook.
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Jan 3, 2022
Ty McKinnie - Revisited
Featuring new material made public for the first time, singer Ty McKinnie discusses his five favourite songs plus the one track that he'd chosen as a gateway song into his catalogue.
Series 2 of In the Key of Q will begin on 1 March 2022.
Links:
* Ty’s forever home online.
* Transcription here.
* Me. Him. Us. A sexual health awareness project for gay and bisexual men from Black, South Asian and other ethnic minority communities.
* Ty's chosen artists: Brandy, Tori Kelly, Whitney Houston, Nat King Cole, Beyonce
* Ty's gateway song Mutual.
* In the Key of Q composer Paul Leonidou’s online home.
Please subscribe to the podcast, rate and review. And spread the word!
You can find us on Twitter and Instagram and join the community over on Facebook.
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Dec 27, 2021
Matt Fishel - Revisited
Featuring new material made public for the first time, pop rock singer Matt Fishel discusses his five favourite songs plus the one track that he'd chosen as a gateway song into his catalogue.
Series 2 of In the Key of Q will begin on 1 March 2022.
* Transcription is available here.
* Matt’s forever home.
* Matt on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
* Matt's chosen artists: Madonna, Manic Street Preachers, Prince, Pet Shop Boys, Seal
* Matt's gateway song, Radio Friendly Pop Song.
* In the Key of Q composer Paul Leonidou’s online home.
Please subscribe to the podcast, rate and review. And spread the word! And do keep your eyes peeled for Matt's new album that's on the way.
You can find us on Twitter and Instagram and join the community over on Facebook.l
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Dec 20, 2021
2021 Christmas Special (Act 1)
This week, presenter Dan Hall welcomes back a Santa sack of guests, each with an exclusive musical treat for listeners. The singing festive elves are: Ty McKinnie (ep 2), Aruan Duval (ep 3), Paul Andrews (ep 9), The IZM (ep 10), Vincent DiGeronimo (ep 11), Matthew Presidente (ep 22), TIN (ep 25), Tommy Atkins (ep 31), Venn Smyth (ep 32), Mr Slade (ep 35) plus special guests London performers Derek and Orla presenting their Christmas single.
Useful links:
* Support the pod at Patreon and gain access to exclusive interviews with every guest.
* Let’s chat about #QueerMusic on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
* Feeling lonely at Christmas? It’s nothing to be ashamed of. Links that might help: Very Well Mind, Campaign to End Loneliness, Mind and Red Online.
* Spotify links for guests: Ty McKinnie, Aruan Duval, Paul Andrews, The IZM, Vincent DiGeronimo, Matthew Presidente, TIN, Tommy Atkins, Venn Smyth, Mr Slade and Derek and Orla.
* More Queer artists with Christmas…
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Dec 20, 2021
2021 Christmas Special (Act 2)
This week, presenter Dan Hall welcomes back a Santa sack of guests, each with an exclusive musical treat for listeners. The singing festive elves are: Ty McKinnie (ep 2), Aruan Duval (ep 3), Paul Andrews (ep 9), The IZM (ep 10), Vincent DiGeronimo (ep 11), Matthew Presidente (ep 22), TIN (ep 25), Tommy Atkins (ep 31), Venn Smyth (ep 32), Mr Slade (ep 35) plus special guests London performers Derek and Orla presenting their Christmas single.
Useful links:
* Support the pod at Patreon and gain access to exclusive interviews with every guest.
* Let’s chat about #QueerMusic on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
* Feeling lonely at Christmas? It’s nothing to be ashamed of. Links that might help: Very Well Mind, Campaign to End Loneliness, Mind and Red Online.
* Spotify links for guests: Ty McKinnie, Aruan Duval, Paul Andrews, The IZM, Vincent DiGeronimo, Matthew Presidente, TIN, Tommy Atkins, Venn Smyth, Mr Slade and Derek and Orla.
* More Queer artists with Christmas…
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Dec 13, 2021
Paul Leonidou
‘What have you got to be depressed about?’ is like saying, ‘What have you got to have a cold about?’
In this episode, Paul discusses his Greek Cypriot roots, his battles with depression and suicidal thoughts, and his own journey into authenticity.
Useful links:
* Support the pod at Patreon and gain access to exclusive interviews with every guest.
* Let’s chat about #QueerMusic on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
* Paul’s homepage can be found here.
* Alumni Andy Pisanu is mentioned, and his episode can be found here.
* Click here for help with suicidal thoughts.
Coming next Quesday is the second of our two-part specials in which previous guests return to deliver exclusive audio gifts to our listeners!
TRANSCRIPTION:
Dan 00:00
Hello and welcome to the first in two Christmas special episodes of In the Key of Q, the guest in this week's episode is, well, one of the family, really. He composed our theme tune and has been a brilliant supporter of the podcast.
P…
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Dec 6, 2021
Aris Ziagos
‘Hang tight, because things will change and you are inspiring someone by being you and not being afraid to be you. And that is contagious.’
In this episode Aris discusses the pain and inspiration behind grief which has been woven throughout his life, be it through the loss of his mother, his friend Ari Gold amongst others. He reveals the importance of being authentic as an artist, and the importance of empathy.
Useful links:
* Support the pod at Patreon and gain access to exclusive interviews with every guest.
* Let’s chat about #QueerMusic on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
* Aris can be found over at YouTube, Twitter, Apple Music, Insta
* Alumni Vincent DiGeronimo recommended Aris for the pod. Hear his episode here.
Coming next Quesday is In the Key of Q composer and singer, Paul Leonidou.
Dan Hall is a TV, film and audio producer whose credits include the podcast series ‘Been There Done That with Susan Osman’, ‘Cher and the Loneliest Elephant’ and ‘Fred…
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Nov 29, 2021
Ethereal and the Elevated
‘If we could all just be aware about each other’s mental health and not look down on each then we could actually learn to get on with each other.’
In this episode bandmates Ethereal and Ant O'Donnell. duo whose music is inspired by the best of Anthony and the Johnsons, London Grammar and Portishead. In the episode they discuss the disrespect shown to trans identities, the Marvel vs DC comic wars and Veganism.
Useful links:
* Support the pod at Patreon and gain access to exclusive interviews with every guest.
* Let’s chat about #QueerMusic on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
* Ethereal and the Elevated over on Spotify, YouTube, Facebook, Insta, Twitter.
* Trans support groups in the UK, the USA and globally.
Coming next Quesday is Aris Ziagos.
Dan Hall is a TV, film and audio producer whose credits include the podcast series ‘Been There Done That with Susan Osman’, ‘Cher and the Loneliest Elephant’ and ‘Freddie Mercury: The Final Act’.
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Nov 22, 2021
Oli Spleen
‘After I got the diagnosis I start having lots of unprotected sex because I thought, “Well why did I even bother to be careful if I still managed to have this?”. In retrospect, I should have just enjoyed it.'
Oli Spleen comes this week from the ever-sunny seaside shores of Brighton in England. His first album was released in 2013. Titled ‘Fag Machine’ it was a Velvet Underground-tinged take on Queer life. His most recent album is 2020’s ‘Night Sweats and Fever Dreams’ and is a complex and moving work inspired by the HIV / AIDS epidemic.
Oli discusses in the episode how HIV brought him dangerously close to dying and the effect that crystal meth addiction has had on his personal life. _This episode also contains discussion of suicide, so listener discretion is advised._
Useful links:
* Help for suicidal thoughts from the UK’s NHS.
* Oli’s pages at Bandcamp and YouTube.
* Help for crystal meth addiction at 56 Dean Street.
* Useful info about HIV AIDS from G…
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Nov 15, 2021
Mr Slade
‘In our attempt to be accepted by mainstream media we’ve exchanged leather parties for quiche partiers and BBQs with neighbours.’
Mr Slade’s sound features tinges of Grunge mixed with the British 80s Goth scene, a splattering of Punk’s guitar fury and a smidge of Pop. He discusses how an empowering Arts High School saved him from the familiar classroom Queer experience of isolation. He talks about the compromises Queer culture has made to be accepted into the mainstream, and also the homophobia, sexism and racism behind Rock’s hatred of Disco.
Useful links:
* Support the pod at Patreon and gain access to exclusive interviews with every guest.
* Let’s chat about #QueerMusic on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
* Mr Slade’s homepage.
* Mr Slade on social media: Instagram
* Mr Slade’s music: Spotify, Apple Music
* Billy Idol made us gay! See him on YouTube. And so did Sinitta’s So Macho.
* Living with HIV with Matthew Hodson on YouTube.
* Trailer for…
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Nov 8, 2021
Kieran Lewis (aka "Sevenths")
‘When we come out we free ourselves of the shackles of having to perform.’
This week, Dan’s guest on In the Key of Q is British producer and singer Kieran Lewis, performing under the name Sevenths.
His first EP was published in 2018. Titled “08/08” it introduced audiences to his mid-tempo synth-pop and catchy hooks. Most recently he has released ‘The Other Side’, a higher-tempo track drawing influences from early 1990s dancefloor bops.
Kieran talks about growing up in a poor household in the North East of England and the betrayal he felt being outed by a classmate. He discusses the self-destructive conflict within Queer communities and his passion for Trans rights.
Find Kieran's music on Spotify and Apple Music.
Keywords: #QueerMusic #PoorLiving #NEEngland #Fakeliving #Str8Acting #Outed #NoFatsNoFemmes #NoFats #NoFemmes #LGBAlliance
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Nov 1, 2021
Tramel
‘I think DaBaby is not understanding that the world is changing. And what I will say is that he has to have more of a higher standard of quality when it comes to dealing with people.’
Tramel is the star of the popular reality YouTube series G-Status. In 2020 he released the critically-acclaimed EP, ‘Six Page Letter’ and this year two follow-up singles, ‘Favourite’ and ‘Popped Off’. He discusses his time on the show, and how honest conversations got him into hot water. He also chats about being outed and the legacy effect it had on his education and new-found Queer community.
Useful links:
* Support the pod at Patreon and gain access to exclusive interviews with every guest.
* Let’s chat about #QueerMusic on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
* Tramel’s music videos for ‘Popped Off’, ‘It’s Real’ and ‘Single’.
* Tramel on YouTube, Distrokid, Spotify, Apple Music and Tidal.
* Tramel performs the song ‘Single’ live on YouTube.
* Tramel’s…
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Oct 26, 2021
Venn Smyth
Musician Venn Smyth discusses synth pop, Scotish identity and ideas for a new Queer community.
Links:
* Venn's website.
* Venn on Insta.
* Venn on FB.
* Venn on Twitter.
* Paul Leonidou (theme composer) website.
* In the Key of Q website.
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Oct 18, 2021
Tommy Atkins
‘Not even independently were there Queer Country artists singing openly Queer lyrics. When you look at the charts on mainstream radio and there isn’t a single openly Queer person on there, something’s going on.’
Tommy Akins is a British singer songwriter singing beautiful and surprisingly authentic songs in the Country Music genre. His debut album ‘Truth Be Told’ has just been released, and his previous single releases have hit number one chart positions across the world.
He talks about performing in a highly hetero-dominated music genre, and his love of Americana. The podcast includes discussions about the beauty of authentic, flawed relationships and how he resisted pressure from record company executives to straight-wash his lyrics.
Tommy’s homepage can be found here and his Proud to be Country playlist can be found here.
Keywords: #CountryMusic #SmalltownLiving #NorthEastEngland #EssexGay #Americana #QueerAmericana #StraightWashing #RecordIndustry #LoveIsLove #H…
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Oct 11, 2021
Cory Stewart
‘People don’t get that Queer music is all genres. For some reason we’re all expected to be George Michael.’
Cory is a graduate of the Royal Conservatory of Music vocal programme. Canadian-born he has been a songwriter and student of music since the age of seven and has toured and performed in several countries around the world including Canada, Germany, the Netherlands and Austria. Cory is a great advocate of Queer Indie musicians, hosting the monthly online event ‘Queer Music Social’, an online networking opportunity for musicians and music experts from around the world. He also presents the weekly Twitch show ‘Queerentine’.
In this episode Cory talks about the social effects of major weight loss and his desperate escape out of smalltown Canada. He discusses the importance of safe, Queer spaces and most importantly of all which soundtrack is the best: ‘The Bodyguard’ or ‘Beaches’?
* Cory’s online home can be found here.
* Jon Ali’s ‘Queer Necessiti…
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Oct 4, 2021
Daniel Versus the World
‘There’s enough boring straight people making boring straight people music, isn’t there? You look at the charts and it’s still Ed-fucking-Sheeran.’
Daniel Vs the World released in 2016 his album ‘Remember Who You Are’ which features the records ‘Thank You’ and ‘5 By 5’ alongside ten other catchy tracks.
In this episode he talks about the challenges growing up when you’re the have-nots and your schoolmates are the haves. He discusses his passion for strong female artists, and shares exclusively with In the Key of Q audiences two demos of upcoming records.
Useful links:
* Support the pod at Patreon and gain access to exclusive interviews with every guest.
* Let’s chat about #QueerMusic on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
* Daniel Vs the World on Bandcamp, Twitter, Facebook, Spotify and Apple Music.
* The episode also discusses In the Key of Q alumni Brendan Maclean, Carrington Kelso and the Black Queer America Specials (Part 1 and Part 2).
Ear…
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Sep 28, 2021
Joey Salinas
‘It shouldn’t come down to heteronormative or gay. It should just come down to human interactions and relationships.’
Joey hails from Northern Virginia in the United States and is the oldest of four children. His music entertains a myriad of genres include dance, R&B, rock, Latin fusion, and electro beats. Whilst his material is mainstream, he never strays from his core intersectional identity as a gay man of Latin descent.
In this episode he talks about growing up in the multicultural regions around Washington DC, and the freedom that performing on stage gave him from an early age. He discusses being negatively profiled due to his Latin heritage and shares his thoughts on the Queer community’s fetishization of race.
Useful links:
* Support the pod at Patreon and gain access to exclusive interviews with every guest.
* Let’s chat about #QueerMusic on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
* Joey over on YouTube, Insta, Apple Music, Facebook, Twitter, Soundcloud and Spotify…
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Sep 20, 2021
Ryan Cassata
‘Why would you choose hate over love? It’s so much easier to be kind and to love people. So why wouldn’t you just chose that?’
This week’s guest discusses how one tiny guitar led him to becoming an award-winning sing-songwriter. Ryan talks about being one of the first trans youths to come out on American national television, and how his Faith has been an integral part of the love he feels both to the outside world and most importantly, to himself.
Useful links:
* Support the pod at Patreon and gain access to exclusive interviews with every guest.
* Let’s chat about #QueerMusic on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
* Ryan's homepage.
* Ryan on social media: Twitter, Facebook, Insta.
* Ryan's music: YouTube, Bandsintown, Apple Music, Soundcloud, Spotify
* Resources for trans, non-binary, gender diverse and LGB people from TransEDU, Supportline and London Friend.
* What the bible says about homosexuality, from TED-X.
* Natalie Merchant performing Wonder.
* W…
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Sep 13, 2021
Andrew M Pisanu ("Memory Flowers")
‘The Sega Mega Drive and masturbating they took the back seat. Suddenly this piano was the most amazing thing I’d ever experienced and I just couldn’t keep off it.’
This week Dan is joined by Essex-born musician Andrew M Flowers. His first notable work was a 2011 composition for the Brockley Jack Theatre and he has since scored and sound designed a plethora of stage and commercial compositions. In 2014 he won the Waterloo Film Festival Score Competition, and has somehow also found the time to make two full-length albums. His most recent work is the catchy pop-bop IDWK performed under the name Memory Flowers.
The episode includes discussions about growing up a gifted musician in Essex and his journey to catchy pop via Radiohead and Rachmaninoff. He tells us his thoughts of “masc for masc” identities in gay culture, and of embracing his inner INFJ introvert.
Andrew’s music performed under Memory Flowers can be found at www.memoryflowers.co.uk.
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Sep 6, 2021
TIN
‘I didn’t understand why no-one was hard! I was like, we’re in a darkroom isn’t that the point?!’
This week’s guest hails from Brisbane in Australia but has made South London his home. In this episode, he chats about Queer attitudes towards Asian men, and the racism and fetishisation that grows from it. And more importantly, he talks sex-positive – LOTS OF IT!
Useful links:
* TIN’s pages at Spotify, Apple Music and YouTube.
* British Asian LGBTI at Consortium.
* ‘Don’t Say His Name’ reviewed at Scene and DNA.
* Matthew J Dempsey discusses gay men and slut shaming on YouTube.
* The podcast can be financially supported at patreon.com/inthekeyofq where for as little as five US dollars a month subscribers can access exclusive interview contact with every guest.
Keywords: #SexShaming #QueerAsian #Vauxhall #BrisbaneGay #UnderwearModel #FatKid #BodyPositivity #AndrewChristian #AndrewChristianUK #AndrewChristianModel #FirstGenerationImmigrant #VietnameseHeri…
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Aug 30, 2021
Daddy Dawg
‘Not only are you not supposed to be gay, and you’re somehow choosing this horrible life, well guess what now if you’re going to have sex you’re probably going to die.’’
This week’s guest is a star on America’s Queer Country Music scene. His horny sex-positive songs are filled with all the sexy traditional Country tropes but with a cocksure man-on-man spin. In this episode, Daddy discusses beating depression and the isolation faced when there is an absolute lack of Queer visibility in media. He shares the trauma of living in the eye of the HIV / AIDS storm and how the global pandemic persuaded him to fulfil a lifelong dream.
Useful links:
* Daddy on Instagram and Twitter.
* Daddy’s music at Spotify and Apple Music.
* Daddy’s homepage.
* Stories of Queer Country music at the BBC.
* The challenges of living long-term with HIV / AIDS at THT.
The podcast can be financially supported at patreon.com/inthekeyofq where for as little as five US dollars a month…
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Aug 23, 2021
Dhorin Fireheart
‘It’s not boiled down to the people you have sex with, but with everything around you; the way that you express yourself through clothing, or music…’
Dhorin has been releasing music for a number of years, including several singles and the 2021 EP, ‘Viking Rave Comp I’. His most recent single is the 2021 release ‘Olof’ and he intriguingly describes his sound as ‘Techno Viking Pop’. This week’s episode truly has a unique sexy Viking vibe!
He has genuine passion for his country’s Folk history. He discusses how listening to and creating music has been a mental health life-raft and how Queer identity has freed him to fully explore his own sense of self, from silver glitter trousers to bear-chested muscle bear.
In The Key of Q publishes every Tuesday (‘Quesday’) and is available at inthekeyofq.com, on Apple, Spotify, Google, Stitcher, Gaana, TuneIn, Overcast, PlayerFM, Deezer, Saavn and most other podcast platforms. Its social media homes…
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Aug 21, 2021
In the Key of Q - 30 second spot trailer
Enjoy volume 1 of our artist-curated playlist by clicking here.
The podcast itself can be found by clicking here.
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Aug 18, 2021
The IZM (republished)
‘I was so scared to say “he”, “him”. I was making reference to pussy that I’ve never even been involved with. So it was like, I can’t keep doing this anymore.’
IZM writes deeply personal beats striking at themes of self-acceptance, sexual rejection and toxic masculinity.
In the episode he challenges the homophobia he perceives within Black American culture; his recovery from sexual trauma and abuse; and the challenges of coming out as one of Hip Hop’s first openly gay performers. His intelligence and passion on the topics of social justice are an inspiration and carry beautifully into his music.
The IZM can be found Spotify, Apple, Twitter, Instagram and Bandcamp
In The Key of Q publishes every Tuesday (‘Quesday’) and is available at inthekeyofq.com,on Apple, Spotify, Google, Stitcher, Gaana, TuneIn, Overcast, PlayerFM, Deezer, Saavn and most other podcast platforms. Its social media homes are on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook
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Aug 16, 2021
Matthew Presidente
‘There’s something fun about performance. There’s something fun about being a character. And when you can marry that with some personal songs, a bit aggression, and a bit of an edge, it’s just such a wonderful way to get that out of your system.”
This week, Dan’s guest on In the Key of Q is Canadian singer-songwriter MATTHEW PRESIDENTE (pronounced “President-ay”).
Matthew Presidente hails from Vancouver in Canada. He isn’t restrained by style, crossing all sorts of genre. He has thus far released six studio albums, and during the COVID crisis launched a YouTube series ‘World is Watching’. In it he collaborates with Queer musicians from around the world. His latest single is the mid-tempo Summer chill track, ‘Standing in the Way of Love’ which held the Qreviews number one spot for four impressive weeks.
Matthew’s online home is at matthewpresidente.com.
Coming next Quesday is Swedish musician DHORIN FIREHEART.
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Aug 9, 2021
Neyon
‘I don’t like labelling myself, or labelling anything. That’s why I use the term Queer because it’s widely used. You can use it in so many ways.’
This week’s episode heads to the European mainland and the German capital city of Berlin. Neyon has been releasing singles since 2019 including ‘Disco Punk’, ‘Top Dog’ and the 2021 single ‘Glammed Up’. His sound is fused with 1980s retro pads and a dash of Soft Cell sleaze.
In this episode Neyon talks about growing up in the small South German town of Heidelberg, and how its normality suffocated him. He speaks about the pain when trust is broken and how Berlin and Britney Spears inspired the musician he is today.
Neyon’s music can be found on Spotify and YouTube.
Keywords: #QueerBerlin #BerlinLiving #Heidelberg #LoveBritney #IcySynth #SoftCell #QueerMusic #MichaelMedrano
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Aug 2, 2021
JR Price
‘If you can’t be witty or funny without tearing someone down, then you’re not funny.’
JR writes light, catchy pop as showcased in his first album the 2021 release, ‘Daydream’. But beneath the catchy melodies and Britney-inspired production are tales of body shame, Queer toxicity and growing up poor in the American South.
JR is a trailblazer in the Queer community, battling against the body fascism which is such a strong part of its culture. He discusses the importance of seeing beauty in everyone and how shows like Ru Paul’s Drag Race promote a toxic culture of bitchiness and destruction.
JR Price’s homepage can be found here.
In The Key of Q publishes every Tuesday (‘Quesday’) and is available at inthekeyofq.com, on Apple, Spotify, Google, Stitcher, Gaana, TuneIn, Overcast, PlayerFM, Deezer, Saavn and most other podcast platforms. Its social media homes are on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
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Jul 27, 2021
Aish Divine
‘I was angry. I was sad… and I was suicidal. Music saved me.’
HELP FOR PEOPLE WITH SUICIDAL THOUGHTS
Aish writes intelligent and personal pop with echoes of his Indian heritage woven within the beats, production and lyrics.
In the episode he mulls the concepts of mother and motherland, having himself a complex relationship with both. From the gruelling summers of India, the violent homophobia of New Delhi to the beauty of the Himalayas he is left with a deeply conflict relationship with ‘home’. He talks about how prescription drugs helped lift him from depression; the legacy of being the “chubby kid” and how gynecomastia led him to use anonymous sex for validation and escape.
Aish’s Link Tree can be found here.
In The Key of Q publishes every Tuesday (‘Quesday’) and is available at inthekeyofq.com, on Apple, Spotify, Google, Stitcher, Gaana, TuneIn, Overcast, PlayerFM, Deezer, Saavn and most other podcast platforms. Its social media homes are on Twitter, Instag…
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Jul 19, 2021
Carrington Kelso
‘It’s not a crime to not understand. But when that knowledge is presented to you, and you still refuse to grow from it, then we have an issue.’
Carrington’s most recent release is ‘Baptize Me In TNT’ an acoustic collection of songs that showcase his smokey, gravelly voice to a tee. This has come on the back of his 2018 album, ‘Baptize Me’ featuring original studio versions of many of his tracks on ‘TNT’. He has just dropped the steamy single, ‘Come Over’.
Carrington offers his thoughts on coming to terms with his unique voice despite initial attempts to sound more like his icons Adele, Ed Sheeran and John Mayer. He talks about the unique intersectionality between Queer and Black identities, and how toxic indoctrination from religious ideologies led him into dark mental health corners. He discusses how his shy teen self, riddled with shame, turned into an extreme people-pleaser and he celebrates the brilliant, strong Black women that provided the backbone of hi…
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Jul 12, 2021
Tom Goss
‘I still face a lot of judgment from the gay community because I’m different. Because I like different things.’
In this week’s episode, Tom talks about his experiences as a young man in a Catholic seminary, being a misfit within the Queer community, and the painful but rewarding honesty that comes from infidelity. He shares his love of authenticity within his music, his thoughts on Lady Gaga, and the importance of using his voice to spread the word about body positivity.
In The Key of Q publishes every Tuesday (‘Quesday’) and is available at inthekeyofq.com, on Apple, Spotify, Google, Stitcher, Gaana, TuneIn, Overcast, PlayerFM, Deezer, Saavn and most other podcast platforms. Its social media homes are on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
Tom’s music can be found at www.tomgossmusic.com.
Keywords: #BodyPositive #LadyGag #ToxicPerfection #KenoshaMissouri #Kenosha #TomGoss #LiveMusic #NoFags #BlackTransHeroes #Infidelity #OpenRelationship #LockdownLiving
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Jul 5, 2021
Nick Vaan
‘I’m making the music that I wanted to listen to growing up. And I think if nobody else like’s it, it’s there for _me_ to enjoy.’
This week’s guest hails from Chicago. In 2018 he released his first long-player, ‘Rituals’. And then in 2020 a five-track EP called ‘33’. Most recent is his 2021 single, ‘But a Dream’.
In this episode, Nick discusses growing up in a trailer park and the challenges he faced growing up near the bottom of the socioeconomic ladder. He discusses the importance of Queer logical families and the surprising creative influence of the COVID pandemic.
In The Key of Q publishes every Tuesday (‘Quesday’) and is available at inthekeyofq.com, on Apple, Spotify, Google, Stitcher, Gaana, TuneIn, Overcast, PlayerFM, Deezer, Saavn and most other podcast platforms. Its social media homes are on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
Nick’s music is at nickvaan.bandcamp.com.
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Jun 28, 2021
Janette Mason & David McAlmont
‘David Bowie has it all: style, fashion, attitude, compassion.’
This week, Dan’s guests on In the Key of Q are Jazz musician Janette Mason and singer-songwriter David McAlmont.
A special episode this week celebrating the new EP, ‘Wall to Wall Bowie’. The five-track record contains amazing, fresh, Jazz-driven new interpretations of David Bowie classics including ‘The Jean Genie’, ‘Suffragette City’ and ‘Starman’. It has been created and arranged by Janette Mason, with David McAlmont and Sam Obernik on vocals.
In this episode Janette and David talk about how Bowie has inspired them, their working relationship, as well as lamenting the loss of the iconic Streatham performance venue, The Hidewaway. Janette discusses how Bowie provided an escape for her as a North London lesbian teenager, and David recalls his memories of the day that Bowie died.
In The Key of Q publishes every Tuesday (‘Quesday’) and is available at inthekeyofq.com, on Apple, Spotify, Google…
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Jun 21, 2021
Rebel Will
‘I felt isolated. I also felt like I had to obey because it was better to obey and be in a space that I knew than to branch out and touch unchartered waters.”
This episode contains references to suicide. Please click here for help and advice.
Rebel Will hails from Toronto in Canada. He has a number of singles out including, ’Til the Sun Comes Down’, ‘Better’, and the 2021 release ‘Rocky’. Waiting in the wings ready for an Autumn release is the album, ‘Rebel Futurism’. He works for the LGBTQIA charity It Gets Better Canada and is a spokesperson for Pride Toronto.
In this episode, Rebel Will discusses the pressures of being marketed and told that his authentic self had no commercial value. And how the pressure of this led him into a depressive spiral. He reveals his very personal journey through a domestically abusive relationship and its climax in a suicide attempt. And how empowering it is to see other Black, Queer artists gaining traction in the music scene.…
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Jun 14, 2021
Emmet Michael
‘Even if you are living your truth, you still fear that people won’t accept you for it.’
This episode contains references to suicide. Please click here for help and advice.
In 2019 Emmet released his first EP, ‘I Feel Like I Just Woke Up’ and followed this up with the 2021 release, ‘I Hope You’re Home’. The title track of the album deals with his close friend whose own internal struggle ended in suicide.
Emmet writes beautiful, soulful Folk-influenced songs. In the episode he speaks honestly about drink and drugs addiction, the psychological trauma caused by a homophobic, religious upbringing and his empowering journey transitioning.
Emmet’s homepage can be found here.
In The Key of Q publishes every Tuesday (‘Quesday’) and is available at inthekeyofq.com, on Apple, Spotify, Google, Stitcher, Gaana, TuneIn, Overcast, PlayerFM, Deezer, Saavn and most other podcast platforms. Its social media homes are on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
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Jun 7, 2021
FURILLOSTAR
‘There’s probably another little black boy somewhere in Flint, Michigan that feels unrepresented. He feels that he can’t really be himself because it’s not there. He can’t see it.’
Please note this episode contains a discussion about a young person's murder. Support can be found by clicking here.
In 2018 FURILLOSTAR released his first EP, ‘Pride’ and has since then released a series of catchy R&B singles and the 2020 6-track EP, ‘Flame’. Most recent is his 2021 release, ‘Vibe With You’ a duet with his sister Brelia Renee.
In the episode, FURILLOSTAR talks about his frustration at using female pronouns in his love songs and his admiration for artists such as Lil Nas X pushing the boundaries for Queer artists. He discusses the love he has for his belittled hometown of Flint and the decimation of its education system. He also reveals his ultimate plans to create community spaces for those in his hometown that he feels are being left behind.
FURILLOSTAR’s link…
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May 31, 2021
Black and Queer: Part 2
‘As hard as we work, nobody attacks us as Black, gay artists the way other Black, gay men do.’ (Sampson McCormick)
In the Key of Q has so far published several episodes featuring American artists who identify as Black and Queer. These include Ty McKinnie (episode 2), SADBOY (episode 5), Wuhryn Dumas (episode 7) and The IZM (episode 10). There was a consistency of messaging coming out from these musicians about the unique (and often ignored) experience they encountered as Black, gay men living in America. These special bonus episodes were commissioned on the back of this.
The two-part special is guest presented by Carrington Kelso, a Chicago-based Black, Queer singer whose own episode will drop on 20 July. He discusses this unique Queer identity with three guests: Ty McKinnie, The IZM and award-winning comedian Samson McCormick who is making his first appearance on the podcast. Each of the men provides a passionate, intelligent and truly individual perspective on the subject.
*…
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May 31, 2021
Black and Queer: Part 1
‘As hard as we work, nobody attacks us as Black, gay artists the way other Black, gay men do.’ (Sampson McCormick)
In the Key of Q has so far published several episodes featuring American artists who identify as Black and Queer. These include Ty McKinnie (episode 2), SADBOY (episode 5), Wuhryn Dumas (episode 7) and The IZM (episode 10). There was a consistency of messaging coming out from these musicians about the unique (and often ignored) experience they encountered as Black, gay men living in America. These special bonus episodes were commissioned on the back of this.
The two-part special is guest presented by Carrington Kelso, a Chicago-based Black, Queer singer whose own episode will drop on 20 July. He discusses this unique Queer identity with three guests: Ty McKinnie, The IZM and award-winning comedian Samson McCormick who is making his first appearance on the podcast. Each of the men provides a passionate, intelligent and truly individual perspective on the subject.
*…
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May 24, 2021
Vincent DiGeronimo
‘There was not a day that went by that I was not called fairy, queen, faggot. The typical slammed into lockers and all that stuff. Food thrown at me. People saying that they wanted to hit me with their trucks or their cars.’
Vincent has a beautiful lo-fi feel to his music, as can be heard across his two albums ‘Not Again’ (2009) and ‘Think. Strings. Machines.’ (2015). His 2020 single ‘1950’ is a thoughtful lament on his father and mid-twentieth century living in New York City.
In the episode Vincent talks about the incessant bullying that he faced in school, and how threats of physical harm forced him to finish high school with a tutor and completely miss his prom and graduation; the challenges of growing up queer amongst FFA (Future Farmers of America) peers and the overwhelming guilt of growing up Catholic. And he shares thought on the pain of the passing of his father and the subsequent complicated grief (aka “persistent complex bereavement disorder”)
Vincent…
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May 10, 2021
Paul Andrews
‘I want so much of gay life to be normalised. Where it’s just part of everyday living.’
Paul writes and performs complex, beautifully produced records with a touch of maturity and even melancholy. His 2019 album Light and Dust is a testament to love, loss and living.
Paul talks about his experiences writing and remixing for artists such as Madonna and Phyllis Hyman; he reveals how the murder of a friend inspired him back into music; his theories on reincarnation and his almost all-consuming love for his husband, Tom.
Paul can be found Spotify, Apple, Twitter, Instagram and at his online home.
In The Key of Q publishes every Tuesday (‘Quesday’) and is available at inthekeyofq.com, on Apple, Spotify, Google, Stitcher, Gaana, TuneIn, Overcast, PlayerFM, Deezer, Saavn and most other podcast platforms. Its social media homes are on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
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May 3, 2021
Jsky
‘People are allowed to make mistakes. I make mistakes every day. I think we just need to be more open to the idea of growing as people.’
Jsky is known for his brilliantly inventive outfits, charismatic personality, and celebrity-filled address book. He fronted Channel Four’s controversial reality series Naked Beach and featured in the long-running series, First Dates. He has released two 6-track Eps, Reality in 2019, and this year’s Á La Mode.
But don’t be fooled into thinking this singer is a typical reality-TV show fayre. Behind the public face is a thoughtful man with much to say on issues such as body image, cancel culture, and the racism and homophobia he has faced in Manchester’s night-time economy.
Jsky can be found Spotify, Apple, Twitter, Instagram, and at his online home.
In The Key of Q publishes every Tuesday (‘Quesday’) and is available at inthekeyofq.com, on Apple, Spotify, Google, Stitcher, Gaana, TuneIn, Overcast, PlayerFM, Deezer, Saavn and most ot…
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May 3, 2021
John Kehl - Song Surfing Podcast
You've heard the trailer in the episodes, now find out more about the Song Surfing Podcast from the presenter and producer, John Kehl.
These are not paid ads! I think his is a great show and would be of interest to those who subscribe to IN THE KEY OF Q. I hope you think so too!
In The Key of Q publishes every Tuesday (‘Quesday’) and is available at inthekeyofq.com, on Apple, Spotify, Google, Stitcher, Gaana, TuneIn, Overcast, PlayerFM, Deezer, Saavn and most other podcast platforms. Its social media homes are on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
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Apr 26, 2021
Wuhryn Dumas
“It is possible to be this entity, this identity, this fearless Black, Queer person.”
Wuhryn Dumas was born in Atlanta, Georgia and makes beautifully positive music. His style is a blend of funkadelic Pop, R&B, House, Jazz and not to forget an undertone of Soul. His first six-track EP, ‘Glitter On Fire’ was released in 2020 after 2018’s premier single, ‘Chemistry’.
Topics covered in the episode include the power of Androgynous identity; the unfortunate absence of joy in Urban Music and Hip Hop; growing up Black and Queer in Atlanta, Georgia (yes the dolls and wearing shirts for wigs!); toxic masculinity with the traditions of the barbershop; the masks that we all wear in life and the magic of Prince and Michael Jackson.
Links:
* Our Patreon page and forever home.
* Say hello at Twitter, Instagram, Facebook or podcast@inthekeyofq.com
* Episode transcription available in PDF form.
* In the Key of Q composer Paul Leonidou’s online home.
* Artist’s music: Ex…
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Apr 19, 2021
Brendan Maclean
“Music is healing for queer people because we find codes and messages that are hidden within songs, and we hear ourselves in them. And we see that caught in other people’s eyes.”
Sydney-based singer-songwriter joins Dan Hall to talk about growing up gay in the Christian suburbs of Australia, singer-songwriter John Grant, the power of performance and his complex relationship with his commercial hit single, House of Air.
Links:
* Episode transcription
* Brendan’s Spotify playlist featuring his songs from this episode and his five tracks to save from Armageddon.
* Brendan’s at Bandcamp.
* Alan Jones and the Cronulla beach riots via ABC News.
* John Grant at the Brixton Academy (bootleg).
* John Grant singing Queen of Denmark, Strongroom Sessions.
* The NSFW music video for House of Air.
* Brendan’s long-time collaborator, Harry Clayton-Wright.
* In the Key of Q composer Paul Leonidou’s online home.
Please subscribe to the podcast, rate and review. And…
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Apr 12, 2021
SADBOY
“Drake really opened the door for Rap to get that vulnerability.”
Hip Hop singer SADBOY shares with us his upbringing, his blinding work-ethic and of course his percussive and deeply atmospheric tunes.
Links:
* Episode transcription
* SADBOY’s Spotify playlist featuring his songs from this episode and his five tracks to save from Armageddon.
* SADBOY‘s forever home online.
* Vox’s short on Afrofuturism.
* Alyssa Jerome’s short on Neo Soul.
* Destiny’s Child Lose My Breath.
* Felix Howard in Madonna’s Open Your Heart video.
* Real Talk – Black Boys Don’t Cry (Mental Health with Black Men).
* Me Him Us – Mental Health campaign for Black gay and bisexual men.
* Lil Nas X music video for Holiday.
* In the Key of Q composer Paul Leonidou’s online home.
Please subscribe to the podcast, rate and review. And spread the word!
You can find us on Twitter and Instagram and join the community over on Facebook.
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Apr 5, 2021
Blake Mundell
“So much of my journey with not just my sexuality, but my spirituality, has been returning to a childlike version of myself.”
_WARNING: THIS EPISODE CONTAINS REFERENCES TO SUICIDE._
Blake Mundell speaks about his highly personal journey through Faith and the clash with his Queer identity.
He discusses his fear of coming out as an NFL employee, a shame that drew him to attempt suicide, and the emergence of the empathetic musician we see today.
Links:
* Episode transcription
* Blake’s Spotify playlist featuring his songs from this episode and his five tracks to save from Armageddon.
* Blake’s forever home online.
* Blake (as Courier) and his video in which “a black man can go out for a jog and make it home”.
* Inspirational gay NFL players at Casino.org.
* Galop help and advice for someone who is being blackmailed at work.
* History Channel discusses blackmail used as a tool against the Queer community.
* Blackmail and persecution in Nigeria, from The Gua…
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Mar 29, 2021
Aruan Duval
“It was just as well he was pretty because he wasn't very smart!”
WARNING: This episode contains a discussion about a real-life extreme violent event.
* Metropolitan Police – reporting hate crime.
* GALOP – the LGBT+ anti-violence charity.
* Childline – homophobic bullying
* NHS - lesbian, gay, bisexual or trans (LGBTQ+) mental health support.
Aruan Duval talks about his accidental outing at school and his lifelong music love of David Bowie, Prince… and Bucks Fizz!
Other subjects include the Russell T Davies HIV / AIDS drama, “It’s a Sin” and the homophobic murder of Jody Dobrowski.
A big thanks to our new Patreon subscriber Warren Woods whose generosity is allowing you to enjoy this episode.
Links:
* Support the podcast at our Patreon page for as little as £3 per month.
* Episode transcription
* Aruan’s Spotify playlist featuring his songs from this episode and his five tracks to save from Armageddon.
* Aruan’s band Furiku on Spotify and A…
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Mar 22, 2021
Ty McKinnie
“Where’re the black people? Where are they?”
Smooth crooner Ty McKinnie chats about being an impossibly happy kid growing up Gay and Black in America’s religious South.
He discusses first boy-kisses, Queer shaming in the home and the invisibility of Black Queer artists in Queer spaces.
Links:
* Episode transcription.
* Ty’s Spotify playlist featuring his songs from this episode and his five tracks to save from Armageddon.
* Ty’s forever home online.
* Me. Him. Us. A sexual health awareness project for gay and bisexual men from Black, South Asian and other ethnic minority communities.
* Mental Health America links providing support for bullied LGBT Youth.
* Georgetown University piece on Proposition 8.
* Medical News Today writes about Toxic Masculinity.
* “A Close Look At Frank Ocean’s Coming Out Letter” from NPR.
* BBC reports on Breonna Taylor, George Floyd and Ahmaud Arbery.
* In the Key of Q composer Paul Leonidou’s online home.
Please s…
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Mar 22, 2021
Matt Fishel
Pop Rock singer Matt Fishel discusses British Queer Suburbia and his own upbringing in Nottingham which featured its fair share of bullying, sex, Nirvana and Prince.
He shares his thoughts on the loss of his first boyfriend, Queer culture’s obsession with youth and the music industry’s insistence that he silence the Queer messaging in his music.
Links:
* Episode Transcription.
* Matt's Spotify playlist featuring his songs from this episode and his five tracks to save from Armageddon.
* Matt’s forever home.
* Matt on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
* Support for those encountering bullying: BBC, Stonewall
* Grief support advice from Stonewall.
* How I Found My Voice podcast with Paloma Faith.
* In the Key of Q composer Paul Leonidou’s online home.
Please subscribe to the podcast, rate and review. And spread the word! And do keep your eyes peeled for Matt's new album that's on the way.
You can find us on Twitter and Instagram and join the community…
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Mar 6, 2021
Exclusive Preview!
In the Key of Q is a new show launching on Tuesday 23 March 2021, where you can find conversations with international Queer musicians.
Say hello to us at pod@inthekeyofq.com - it'll be great to hear from you!
Dan Hall (Producer / Presenter)
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