Gay Music: In the Key of Q

For decades, queer people have been told that acceptance comes with conditions - be more normal, more mainstream, more palatable. But a new generation of queer artists is rejecting these expectations entirely. This fourth and final summer special examines how queer voices are choosing authentic expression over respectability politics, even when it comes at real costs.

Featuring conversations with Brendan Maclean from Australia, whose explicit "House of Air" video became his most radical artistic statement; Warren Dumas from Atlanta, who challenges gender expectations through androgynous presentation; SADBOY from New York, who highlights the contradiction between queer influence on culture and its lack of recognition; and Matt Fishel from the UK, who faced industry pressure to hide his gay identity but chose to create the representation he never had growing up.

These artists understand that visibility itself is activism, and that real change comes from refusing to apologise for who you are.

01:48 - Brendan Maclean's radical response to respectability politics: "We created the most queer, joyful, unashamed music video I think that's ever existed"

06:26 - Warren Dumas on challenging expectations: "If it makes someone wonder, or if it makes someone stop... it opens up their mind to possibilities of being"

08:15 - SADBOY on queer influence without recognition: "We influence hip hop... The world does not spin without the black gaze"

11:41 - Matt Fishel on industry pressure: "Every single one of them basically said to me... you got to cut the gay content"

13:43 - Warren Dumas on gender double standards: "When you know there are female singers... can display these acts of homosexuality, and it's art. But once a male does it..."

15:16 - Brendan Maclean on career consequences: "It also really spoke to me away from pop music at the time... I went deeply inwards, as deep inwards as I possibly could go"

20:12 - Brendan on finding his way back: "I had to get back on at a drag night... and the next week I was in Italy performing for Bulgari in a castle"

21:01 - SADBOY's mission: "I'm trying to say that it's okay to display emotion... Any type of emotion like it's okay to love and to embrace that love"

23:32 - Matt Fishel on creating representation: "I made these songs for 15 year old me... This is the album I wanted to hear at 15 years old"

• Read deep dives into our queer lives at the blog HERE.
• Check out the official podcast playlist on Spotify.
• Follow the podcast on: Instagram • Tik Tok • Facebook
• See producer and presenter Dan Hall's other work HERE (subtitled version HERE).
• Find composer Paul Leonidou HERE.
• Listen to other episodes at HERE.

Visit the guests' homepages:

• Brendan Maclean HERE
• Paul Andrews HERE
• JSky HERE
• SADBOY HERE

This special episode brings together five queer musicians reflecting on how music shaped their identities and artistic paths. From Aruan's transformative encounter with Soft Cell on Top of the Pops in 1981 to SADBOY's mission to normalise emotional expression in Black masculinity, each artist reveals how music provided both refuge and resistance.

The conversation spans continents and generations, weaving together stories of discovery, survival, and ultimately creation. Whether it was Brendan Maclean finding salvation in high school musical theatre, Paul Andrews learning harmony from songbooks, or JSky recording tracks on a PlayStation, these artists demonstrate how queer people have always found ways to decode, create, and claim space through music.

• [00:01:26] Soft Cell's Tainted Love awakens queer possibility: Aruan recalls being terrified and fascinated by Marc Almond's androgynous performance in 1981
• [00:02:30] Musical theatre becomes a lifeline: Brendan Maclean discovers "the brightest, shiniest version" of himself through performance
• [00:05:01] Afrofuturism meets family musical heritage: SADBOY describes growing up surrounded by house, hip hop, neo soul and electronic sounds
• [00:05:50] Weekly record shopping creates musical foundation: Paul Andrews' mother would sing songs to record store staff to find the right 45s
• [00:12:09] Prince models gender fluidity and rebellion: Aruan finds life-saving escapism in Prince's androgynous high-heeled defiance
• [00:13:43] From remixing Madonna to finding authenticity: Paul Andrews discusses working on "Ghost Town" and creating his own album
• [00:15:04] PlayStation production to professional recording: JSky's DIY journey from making beats on Music 2000 to booking studio time at 14
• [00:16:16] Decoding hidden queer messages in mainstream music: Brendan explains how queer audiences find Easter eggs and codes in songs
• [00:20:25] Hip hop as emotional revolution: SADBOY challenges hypermasculinity in Black communities through vulnerable music
• [00:21:32] The politics of pronouns in pop: Paul Andrews argues for authentic representation in lyrics to normalise queer love
• [00:22:24] Gay semiotics sparks creative breakthrough: Brendan's discovery of a book in a London sex shop leads to artistic revelation
• [00:23:43] Independence enables authentic expression: JSky celebrates not needing anyone's permission to create and release music

• Read deep dives into our queer lives at the blog HERE.
• Check out the official podcast playlist on Spotify.
• Follow the podcast on: Instagram • Tik Tok • Facebook
• See producer and presenter Dan Hall's other work HERE (subtitled version HERE).
• Find composer Paul Leonidou HERE.
• Listen to other episodes at HERE.

Visit the guests' homepages:

• Brendan Maclean HERE
• Paul Andrews HERE
• JSky HERE
• SADBOY HERE

Faith and family can be anchors in a young life — or weights that threaten to pull us under. In this summer special of In the Key of Q, I revisit remastered episodes from four remarkable queer artists: JSky (UK), Ty McKinnie (US), Blake Mundell aka Courier (US), and Wuhryn Dumas (US). Each speaks candidly about growing up queer in environments steeped in religious expectation and traditional family roles.

We hear how early love for music and community often existed alongside fear, shame, or silence, and how each of them has reclaimed their space in ways that honour both their identity and personal history. From Blake’s candid account of conversion therapy to Wuhryn’s reflections on becoming the role model he never had, these conversations challenge the idea that faith and queerness cannot coexist. Instead, they reveal the messy, human process of reconciling the two.

It’s an episode about reclaiming joy, asserting self-worth, and finding home, whether that's in a church, a studio, or simply in one’s own skin.

• [00:00] Setting the stage: Introduction to the summer specials and the theme of faith and family for queer people.
• [00:01] Ty’s Hallelujah baby years: Early joy in church life and music, before acceptance came with conditions.
• [00:02] Blake’s nightly prayers: Internalising shame from evangelical messages, leading to years of self-questioning.
• [00:03] Wuhryn’s early queerness: Family members naming his queerness before he understood it himself.
• [00:05] JSky’s dual worlds: Balancing football culture with the joy of church music and his Nana’s influence.
• [00:09] The false choice: Blake describes feeling forced to choose between being queer or Christian.
• [00:11] Unsafe at home: Ty recalls retreating from family conversations about sexuality and Proposition 8.
• [00:12] Direct confrontation: JSky’s honest exchange with his religious grandmother sparks perspective change.
• [00:17] Reclaiming the sacred: Blake holds space for all his past selves; Ty builds new understanding with family.
• [00:21] Hugging on your own terms: Ty insists on physical affection despite discomfort.
• [00:21] Becoming the representation: Wuhryn’s commitment to showing young queer Black boys that they can thrive.
• [00:24] Home you build: Closing reflections on finding sacred space beyond traditional institutions.

JSky – UK singer, broadcaster, and creative, known for blending music and storytelling. Instagram

Ty McKinnie – US singer-songwriter with soulful honesty and a love of storytelling. Official Site

Wuhryn Dumas – US artist creating music with fierce pride and visibility for queer Black identities. Official Site

Blake Mundell / Courier – US artist and writer exploring identity and belonging through music. Official Site

• Read deep dives into our queer lives at the blog HERE.
• Check out the official podcast playlist on Spotify.
• Follow the podcast on: Instagram • Tik Tok • Facebook
• See producer and presenter Dan Hall's other work HERE (subtitled version HERE).
• Find composer Paul Leonidou HERE.
• Listen to other episodes at HERE.

This special episode weaves together the experiences of five queer artists who've navigated the exhausting terrain between authentic self and performed safety. From Matt Fishel's childhood joy being "bullied out" of him to Blake Mundell's voluntary enrollment in conversion therapy, these stories map the psychological geography of concealment.

Each artist reveals how constant self-monitoring becomes second nature - whether it's Ty McKinnie learning not to talk with his hands or Vincent di Geronimo facing daily violence in small-town Connecticut. Yet these aren't simply survival stories. They're testimonies to the peculiar alchemy that transforms hidden pain into visible art, showing how queer resilience isn't about overcoming but about finding unexpected pathways through.

• [00:01:33] Childhood transformation: Matt Fishel recalls when joy turned to vigilance at age 11
• [00:02:56] Geographic isolation: Vincent di Geronimo's move from NYC to Connecticut brings immediate violence
• [00:05:37] Performative masculinity: Blake Mundell maintains image through sports and "manly" activities
• [00:06:44] Accidental outing: Aruan's preference for Wham! over Madness exposes him in classroom
• [00:10:57] Physical withdrawal: Matt Fishel becomes recluse after serious beating in Nottingham
• [00:11:57] Conversion therapy: Blake voluntarily enrolls seeking to eliminate "sinful desires"
• [00:13:42] Suicide attempt: Blake's confidential letter to pastor gets weaponised by church
• [00:19:06] Classroom cruelty: Vincent faces normalised homophobia in maths class
• [00:20:15] Body language policing: Ty McKinnie's father forbids talking with hands
• [00:21:43] Unexpected liberation: Blake finds freedom through telling friend's story
• [00:24:23] Musical salvation: Aruan discovers community through Prince and Bowie
• [00:26:37] Industry rejection: Matt Fishel told by labels to "cut the gay content"

This special episode features five remarkable artists from the podcast's first season in 2021: UK-based Matt Fishel and Aruan, alongside US artists Vincent di Geronimo, Blake Mundell (performing as Courier), and Ty McKinnie. Each brings their unique perspective on navigating queer identity through music.

• Matt Fishel's music: mattfishel.com
• Ty McKinnie's work: tymckinnie.com
• Courier (Blake Mundell): therealcourier.com
• Vincent di Geronimo: vincentdigeronimo.com

• Matt Fishel
• Ty McKinnie
• Aruan
• Blake Mundell / Courier
• SADBOY
• Brendan Maclean
• Wuhryn Dumas
• JSky
• Paul Andrews
• Vincent diGeronimo

• Read deep dives into our queer lives at the blog HERE.
• Check out the official podcast playlist on Spotify.
• Follow the podcast on: Instagram • Tik Tok • Facebook
• See producer and presenter Dan Hall's other work HERE (subtitled version HERE).
• Find composer Paul Leonidou HERE.
• Listen to other episodes HERE.

Eric Terino returns to share how much has shifted since his last appearance nearly two years ago. The American singer-songwriter opens up about recent breakthroughs in managing his agoraphobia, the political climate's impact on queer safety, and his evolution from punk minimalism to avant-garde folk electronica.

His latest release, Indelible Sundries, represents a bold artistic statement—a live album recorded remotely during isolating times, featuring hand-curated audience applause and single-take performances. Eric discusses the profound loss of his best friend, the healing power of authentic representation, and why he refuses to conform to stereotypical LGBTQ+ musical imagery.

[00:29] Welcome Back: Eric discusses the strange experience of hearing his previous episode after a two-year delay

[04:33] Personal Evolution: How Eric has changed from his hopeful pandemic-era self to navigating current challenges

[09:15] Agoraphobia Breakthroughs: Recent progress in traveling beyond his comfort zone for the first time since the pandemic

[10:54] Political Climate Impact: How America's hostile environment toward minorities affects mental health and personal safety

[12:39] Musical Genre Evolution: The journey from minimalist punk to avant-garde folk electronica

[17:45] Grief as Creative Catalyst: Processing the loss of a lifelong friend and its impact on artistic depth

[21:02] Authentic LGBTQ+ Representation: Refusing to conform to stereotypical gay musician imagery

[23:11] Queercore Influences: Discussion of punk's inherently queer nature and the UK's 1990s Queercore movement

[26:21] Live Album Vulnerability: The courage required to create Indelible Sundries as a remote live recording

[28:01] Creative Process Innovation: How individual applause recordings and single takes created authentic live atmosphere

[34:22] Sandy Denny Cover Choice: Why "No More Sad Refrains" perfectly captured overcoming winter into spring

Eric Terino is an American singer-songwriter and multimedia artist creating authentic folk electronica from his unique perspective. His latest album Indelible Sundries showcases innovative remote live recording techniques while exploring themes of resilience, authenticity, and queer representation beyond stereotypes. Visit ericterino.com.

• Read deep dives into our queer lives at the blog HERE.
• Check out the official podcast playlist on Spotify.
• Follow the podcast on: • Instagram • TikTok • Facebook
• See producer and presenter Dan Hall's other work HERE (subtitled version HERE).
• Find composer Paul Leonidou HERE.
• Listen to other episodes at here.
• Visit the guest's homepage HERE.

Mickey Taylor returns to music after five years with raw honesty about heartbreak, family reconciliation, and finding hope through creativity. The pop-dance artist opens up about his relationship breakdown, reconnecting with his mother after she came out as lesbian, and why the queer community's ability to transform trauma into art is our superpower.

This conversation explores the therapeutic power of songwriting, the changing landscape of queer social connection, and Mickey's passionate call for better care of young people. From West End stages to chart success and back to vulnerability, Mickey's journey reminds us that sometimes we need to fall apart completely before we can rebuild ourselves stronger.

• [02:19] Musical Theatre Burnout to Pop Success: Mickey explains his transition from musical theatre to pop music, seeking creative ownership after years of singing show tunes
• [04:32] Optimism Through Darkness: Discussion of Mickey's signature sound combining uplifting melodies with honest explorations of difficult subjects
• [06:21] Covid Career Break: How the pandemic created space for reflection and the decision to step back from music temporarily
• [07:02] Relationship Breakdown Recovery: Mickey's raw account of losing both career momentum and long-term relationship simultaneously
• [08:12] Music as Therapy: The return to songwriting as personal healing, treating songs like diary entries during difficult times
• [12:21] Mother-Son Reconciliation: The transformative moment when Mickey's mother came out as lesbian and they rebuilt their relationship
• [17:08] Trauma into Comedy: Mickey's philosophy that tragedy plus time equals comedy, and how the queer community excels at transforming pain into art
• [18:57] Queer Community Social Shift: Observation about millennials moving away from dating apps towards in-person connection
• [23:55] Political Views and Travel: Mickey's perspective on how closed-minded views often correlate with limited travel and excessive wealth
• [30:33] Children and Education: Passionate two-minute platform about giving young people proper care, love and real-world skills

Mickey Taylor is a pop and dance artist with eight years in the music industry and four albums to his name, three of which reached the top 20 dance charts. After a five-year hiatus, he's returned with his most creative and visual project yet, drawing on his diverse background in TV, stage, and animation. Based in Manchester, Mickey combines honest vulnerability with infectious optimism, creating music that transforms personal struggles into universal connection points.

Find Mickey online: Instagram | YouTube

Read deep dives into our queer lives at the blog HERE.

Check out the official podcast playlist on Spotify.

Follow the podcast on:

• Instagram
• TikTok
• Facebook

See producer and presenter Dan Hall's other work HERE (subtitled version HERE).

Listen to other episodes at the homepage.

From the melancholy melodies of post-Soviet Latvia to commanding pride festival stages across New York, Keeana Kee's journey embodies the transformative power of living one's truth. In this deeply personal conversation, the independent pop artist and activist shares how economic hardship shaped her artistry, the dangers she's navigated as a queer woman in male-dominated industries, and why visibility remains her most powerful tool for change.

Keeana opens up about the evolution from exotic pop to cinematic ballads, the deliberate choice to make her debut single explicitly queer despite industry pressure, and how her grandmother's wartime songs still echo through her minor-key compositions. Her story is one of resilience, artistic integrity, and the belief that music can literally save lives.

[02:57] Early musical memories: Singing melancholy post-Soviet war songs with grandmother in Latvia shaped Keeana's artistic DNA and preference for minor keys.

[04:22] Breaking artistic barriers: Growing up in economic hardship where arts weren't valued as career paths, until London opened new possibilities for creative freedom.

[06:01] London awakening: First pride parade and seeing visible queer community provided crucial realisation that she wasn't alone or "sick" for being gay.

[08:24] Fashion world confidence: Modelling career built performance confidence but also taught harsh lessons about comparison and fighting for spotlight in competitive industry.

[10:42] Music industry dangers: Discusses the reality of being vulnerable as woman in studios, needing protection from sexual abuse and harassment from male producers.

[15:23] Sound evolution explained: Natural progression from exotic pop to cinematic style driven by deep connection to world's pain and personal healing journey.

[21:34] Deliberately queer debut: Chose to make "Coconut Rum and Coke" explicitly lesbian despite industry warnings it would damage her career prospects.

[26:13] Fan connection impact: Receiving messages from fans whose lives were literally saved by her music brings tears and demonstrates music's healing power.

[30:20] LGBTQ Emerging Artist Award: Winning prestigious 2023 award recognised her visibility work and artistic contribution to queer community.

[32:19] Advice to younger self: Would tell 15-year-old Keeana to never lose her light despite family criticism and always believe in herself.

[35:12] Pride month message: Two-minute uninterrupted platform to speak about pride as resistance, staying visible for others, and hope for united world.

[36:58] Gateway track recommendation: "TikTok" chosen as perfect introduction because it balances clubby pop with strong message about staying true to yourself.

Keeana Kee is an independent pop artist and activist whose music bridges vulnerability and strength. From Latvia to London to New York, she's transformed personal struggles into anthems of resilience. Winner of the 2023 LGBTQ Emerging Artist Award, Keeana performs at pride festivals across America whilst maintaining fierce authenticity in an industry that often demands conformity. Her latest work includes the cinematic ballad "Small Fragile Woman" and soul-stirring "Heal Me", showcasing an artist unafraid to tackle personal and global healing through music.

• Instagram: @keeanakee
• Spotify: Keeana Kee
• Facebook: keeanakeeofficial
• Apple Music: Keeana Kee
• Twitter/X: @KeeanaKee
• SoundCloud: keeanakee

• Read deep dives into our queer lives at the blog HERE.
• Check out the official podcast playlist on Spotify.
• Follow the podcast on: Instagram • Tik Tok • Facebook
• See producer and presenter Dan Hall's other work HERE (subtitled version HERE).
• Find composer Paul Leonidou HERE.
• Listen to other episodes at HERE.
• Visit the guest's homepage HERE.

This episode of "In the Key of Q" features a heartfelt and insightful conversation with Mel Lennon, a self-taught, German-born, New York City-based Black queer artist who is making his mark as a rapper, singer, songwriter, and producer.

Mel shares his journey of blending infectious pop melodies with hip-hop beats and provocative lyrics that speak authentically to queer experiences. He candidly discusses overcoming profound insecurities (themes central to his debut EP "Overthinking Out Loud"), the pain of family disownment, experiences with housing insecurity, and the continuous journey towards self-acceptance and representation. 

Ultimately, Mel offers a powerful message of compassion, empathy, and the importance of challenging stigma, all while creating music that invites joy and celebration.

• [00:02:36] Mel Lennon on his musical style: He describes his music as pop, aiming for an inclusive feel that's open to everyone.
• [00:03:18] The origin of his name "Mel Lennon": Mel explains how his name humorously references his identity in performance spaces and his desire to move beyond racial caricatures.
• [00:04:01] On being the "only": Mel shares the experience of being the only Black person in a room and draws parallels to how queer individuals can feel "othered" in heteronormative spaces.
• [00:05:15] Education on race: He discusses the problematic expectation that minorities should educate the majority about racism and systemic issues.
• [00:08:22] Religion, empathy, and self-hate: Mel reflects on his religious upbringing, which instilled a sense of morality and empathy but also led to self-hatred due to homophobic teachings.
• [00:09:28] Hypermasculinity in queer spaces: Mel addresses the fetishisation of Blackness and the pressure for Black queer men to conform to hypermasculine ideals, even within the LGBTQ+ community.
• [00:12:32] Conviction over confidence: His drive to create music stems more from a deep-seated conviction than from confidence alone.
• [00:14:09] The purpose of being an "out loud" artist: Mel aims to make others, especially those feeling isolated, know they are not alone and that it's okay to be themselves.
• [00:15:51] Loneliness and trauma: He opens up about enduring loneliness.
• [00:18:18] Housing insecurity: Mel shares his personal experiences with homelessness after dropping out of college and how New York's resources eventually helped him find stability.
• [00:20:44] Black queer youth as "the culture": He emphasises the immense cultural influence of Black queer youth and the importance of ensuring their visibility and voices are at the forefront.
• [00:25:01] Joyful music with serious messages: Inspired by artists like Missy Elliott, Mel explains his approach to embedding social commentary and serious themes within celebratory and danceable music.
• [00:29:27] Mel's message to the world: He advocates for leading with compassion and empathy, stopping stigma, investing in facts, and embracing love for things that don't cause harm.
• [00:31:56] Upcoming Music: Mel announces his third EP, "Think less, feel More," is anticipated for New York City Pride.
• [00:32:56] Gateway Track "Freaky": Mel identifies "Freaky" as the song that best represents his sound—a hip-hop base with a fun, flirty pop exterior and lyrics exploring hypersexuality and self-acceptance.

Mel Lennon is a self-taught rapper, singer, songwriter, and producer, born in Germany and now a vibrant part of New York City's music scene. Known by handles like @thatgaypopstar or @MelLennonPop, he crafts genre-bending pop and hip-hop that authentically delve into queer experiences. His debut EP, "Overthinking Out Loud," garnered two top 40 singles on the LGBTQIA urban charts. Discover his music on all major streaming platforms and connect with him via his Linktree: linktr.ee/MelLennonPop.

• "Why I'm No Longer Talking to White People About Race" by Reni Eddo-Lodge. (Note: This book was not immediately found via search at Gay's The Word or Clapham Books. It is available from major retailers and the author's website: renieddolodge.co.uk)
• Kendrick Lamar
• Lil Nas X
• Missy Elliott: "Get Ur Freak On"
• Gateway Track: "Freaky" (Find on Mel Lennon's YouTube channel: MelLennonPop on YouTube or via streaming platforms: Song Whip - Freaky)
• Listen on Apple Music: Mel Lennon on Apple Music
• General social media handle: @thatgaypopstar (on most platforms except X)

Read deep dives into our queer lives at the blog HERE.

Check out the official podcast playlist on Spotify. 

Follow the podcast on:

• Instagram
• TikTok
• Facebook

See producer and presenter Dan Hall’s other work HERE (subtitled version HERE).

Listen to other episode at the homepage.

This episode offers a deeply personal conversation with Jaime and Alan Aurelia, the core members of the New York-based band Not From Concentrate. They share the journey of their unique "scrum" sound—a fusion of ska, punk, and grunge—and the even more profound journey of their relationship. You'll hear about Jaime's experience coming out as a transgender man and how this pivotal change rippled through their marriage, their music, and their lives.

Alan speaks with remarkable openness about the initial pain and confusion, and the path towards a renewed understanding and deeper love for Jaime. Together, they explore themes of identity, the complexities of visibility for trans individuals (particularly the scarcity of gay trans male representation in media), and the strength found in unwavering commitment. It's a story about evolution, resilience, and the courage to live authentically, both as individuals and as a couple.

• [00:00:55] Introducing Not From Concentrate: Dan introduces the band and their "scrum" genre, a mix of ska, punk, and grunge.
• [00:02:18] Jaime Joining the Band: Jaime recounts joining the band, initially unfamiliar with ska, and learning the genre.
• [00:03:10] How Jaime and Alan Met: Alan and Jaime share the story of meeting at a college radio station.
• [00:04:07] Dating in a Band: The challenges and eventual success of their relationship starting within the band.
• [00:05:44] What is a Bass Diva?: Alan explains his protectiveness over his bass guitar.
• [00:07:23] The Misuse of "Woke": Discussion on how the term "woke" is often used to mask prejudice against queer people and people of colour.
• [00:07:41] Jaime's Transition: Jaime speaks about coming out as transgender and the beginning of his transition journey around the time of COVID.
• [00:08:53] Lack of Trans Representation: Jaime highlights the lack of visibility for gay trans men in media, which initially caused him confusion about his own identity. Dan mentions a report showing zero gay trans characters on British TV in a recent year.
• [00:12:34] Alan's Perspective on Jaime's Transition: Alan describes his emotional experience, comparing it to "watching your wife die" while working to fall in love with the same person anew. He discusses the conflict and the eventual reaffirmation of his love.
• [00:15:11] Navigating Transition with Scarce Resources: Jaime talks about the lack of resources for trans men, especially those transitioning later in life, and the negative predictions he received about his marriage.
• [00:18:18] Love and Growing Up: The conversation turns to the depth of their love and how they've navigated profound changes together, ultimately strengthening their bond.
• [00:21:21] Queer Culture and Music Genres: Dan and Alan discuss the narrow range of music genres often dominating queer cultural spaces and the importance of diversity in queer artistic expression.
• [00:22:26] Not From Concentrate's Audience: Alan describes their audience as ska lovers with an increasing number of queer people attending their shows. He emphasises that not all LGBTQ+ people want only dance or pop music.
• [00:25:32] A Moment of Recognition: Alan shares an anecdote about someone observing their affectionate interaction as a gay couple, making him feel seen.
• [00:26:23] The Desire for Normalcy: Discussion about the queer community's desire for acceptance and normalcy rather than dominance.
• [00:30:14] Alan's Two Minutes to the World: Alan speaks about the power of music as an equalizer and a positive force.
• [00:32:19] Gateway Song - "Clark Kent": Alan introduces "Clark Kent" as their gateway song, explaining its meaning about coming out and its impact on listeners.

Jaime and Alan Aurelia are the driving force behind the New York-based "scrum" (ska/punk/grunge) band, Not From Concentrate. Formed in 2008, they craft a unique sound drawing from influences like The Specials and Sublime whilst navigating life's profound changes together. You can find their music, including the track "Clark Kent," on their YouTube channel.

• Not From Concentrate YouTube: 
• The Specials: https://thespecials.com
• Sublime: https://www.sublimelbc.com
• No Doubt: https://nodoubt.com
• Led Zeppelin: https://www.ledzeppelin.com
• The Doors: https://thedoors.com
• Elton John: https://www.eltonjohn.com
• Pansy Division: http://www.pansydivision.com

Songs Mentioned:

• Not From Concentrate: "Clark Kent" (Official Music Video)
• Elton John: "Saturday Night's Alright (For Fighting)" (Remastered 2014)

Media/Reports Mentioned:

• GLAAD "Where We Are on TV" Report: (Provides analysis of LGBTQ+ representation on television) https://glaad.org/whereweareontv23/ (This is the 2023-2024 report, relevant to the discussion on trans characters on TV).

Books Mentioned:

No specific books were recommended for purchase in this episode. For queer literature, consider visiting:

• Gay's The Word: https://gaystheword.co.uk

• Read deep dives into our queer lives at the blog HE RE.
• Check out the official podcast playlist on Spotify.
• Follow the podcast on:
• Instagram
• TikTok
• Facebook
• See producer and presenter Dan Hall’s other work HERE (subtitled version HERE).
• Listen to other episodes at the homepage.

In this candid episode, Polish electronic pop artist Tomek Zdyb shares his journey of growing up gay in a deeply religious and conservative Poland. He discusses how the absence of LGBTQ+ terminology and representation left him navigating his identity through pornography rather than healthy education, leading to struggles with sex addiction that would take years to overcome.

Tomek opens up about his teenage isolation, identity crisis after falling in love with a woman despite knowing he was attracted to men, and his eventual path to self-acceptance. Music became his salvation – transforming from a late-discovered passion into therapeutic self-expression and a platform to break taboos. Through his "Untold Stories" project and willingness to address uncomfortable subjects, Tomek creates space for others facing similar struggles while challenging the toxic education he received growing up.

• [00:02:37] Religious and Social Climate in Poland: Tomek describes growing up in a country heavily influenced by religion with strong conservative attitudes toward homosexuality.
• [00:04:47] Lack of Queer Vocabulary: He explains how the absence of terminology for gay identity created confusion, forcing him to learn about homosexuality through pornography rather than education.
• [00:06:50] Identity Crisis: Tomek shares his experience of falling in love with a woman despite knowing he was attracted to men, creating an identity crisis that took years to resolve.
• [00:12:34] Global Safety Concerns: A powerful discussion about whether there are truly safe places for LGBTQ+ people, with references to Poland's LGBT-free zones and the current climate in America.
• [00:15:17] Sex Addiction Journey: Tomek candidly discusses his struggles with pornography addiction, how it impacted his life, and the importance of talking about sex addiction as a legitimate issue.
• [00:20:18] Music as Therapy: He explains how music became not just a passion but a therapeutic outlet that helped him emerge from a dark, lonely period in his life.
• [00:22:26] Teenage Isolation: Tomek describes his teenage years marked by severe isolation, having quit dance due to bullying and separating himself entirely from the world.
• [00:24:51] Finding Community: The turning point came when he changed schools and found supportive community through Amnesty International, showing the vital importance of accepting spaces.
• [00:29:02] Rejection of Labels: In his two-minute speech, Tomek emphasizes his desire to live without being defined solely by his sexuality, questioning why sexual identity is blamed for societal problems.

Tomek Zdyb is a Polish singer-songwriter crafting electronic pop that challenges taboos and embraces authenticity. A chemist by education and corporate employee by profession, Tomek describes himself as "an artist and dancer by heart and soul." His music transforms personal struggles into powerful art, combining diverse vocal styles and genres to create a distinctive sound that educates and inspires.

• Read deep dives into our queer lives at the blog HERE.
• Check out the official podcast playlist on Spotify.
• Follow the podcast on: Instagram, TikTok, Facebook
• See producer and presenter Dan Hall's other work HERE (subtitled version HERE).
• Listen to other episodes at the homepage.