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It’s that time of year again — when we queers let our hair down, crank up the volume, and celebrate our unapologetic fabulousness. Pride is here, and while the political landscape may feel unstable and our rights constantly under siege, one truth remains: the LGBTQ community will always find a way to throw a damn good party. Or, as the Scissor Sisters cheekily reminded us, “Let’s Have a Kiki.”

Reimagining the Classics

Originally, the plan was to freshen up this year’s edition with newer remixes of iconic gay anthems. But after diving headfirst into a sea of fanmade bootlegs — many of which ranged from barely passable to downright unlistenable — I realized that over the years, I had already assembled the best of the best. So, instead of chasing ghosts, I shifted gears and pulled together what I consider to be the most powerful, energetic, and expertly crafted versions of these beloved tracks that had already been immortalized in digital form.

The Ultimate Essentials

Some songs were no-brainers — standout mixes that continue to dominate queer dancefloors year after year. Others posed a challenge, with multiple excellent interpretations vying for a spot. In those cases, I went with what worked best in the mix and what kept the momentum flowing. Sadly, a few favorites didn’t make the final cut, not because they weren’t worthy, but because they didn’t quite fit this year’s energy. That’s always the hardest part — deciding what to keep and what to let go.

In the end, what you’re getting is a tightly crafted experience: essential gay anthems from as far back as the '70s, reinvented with a modern edge that will hit just right for Millennials and Gen Z — and likely give Gen X and Boomers a reason to raise a glittery eyebrow and smile. These aren’t just remixes — they’re reinventions that breathe new life into songs that already had a heartbeat of their own.

A Community Effort

I want to give a massive shoutout to Hans, who responded to my call for suggestions with enthusiasm and insight. While I already had most of his picks in the archive, and only a couple made the final mix, his contribution helped steer the direction and is greatly appreciated. Hopefully, I did you proud, Hans.

World Pride, Doctor’s Orders, and a Delayed Drop

World Pride reaches its grand finale this weekend in Washington, D.C., which feels a bit off-kilter since it typically wraps up toward the end of June. I had fully intended to get these sets out much earlier, but between deep diving into remix archives and juggling an endless cycle of doctor’s appointments (check recent posts for that saga), time slipped through my fingers like glitter in a windstorm.

What’s Next?