Today, I’m excited to have the incredibly talented Mark Byers with me in studio. Mark is a dynamic force in the music industry, known for his work on RuPaul's Drag Race, as well as his contributions to Good Mythical Morning and The Farewell.

As a Los Angeles-based songwriter and producer, Mark has been creating captivating pop songs for artists, drag queens, and TV/film productions for over a decade. His expertise and flair for music have not only entertained audiences but also significantly impacted the music scene. He has worked with artists from our Ohio legend Nina West, to everybody’s Mama RuPaul, to Neil Patrick Harris and more. I am so excited to talk to him, so in a minute, get ready to give a big Left of Str8 Show welcome to the handsome and talented Mr. Mark Byers.

Summary

Mark Byers, a songwriter and producer, discusses his career in the music industry, including his work with drag queens, television shows, and movies. He shares his experiences working on projects such as RuPaul's Drag Race, The Farewell, and Rough Night. Mark also talks about his process for creating music and the intersection of music and activism. He highlights the importance of staying inspired and finding unique ways to express oneself through music. In this episode, Scott interviews Mark Byers, a composer and songwriter. They discuss Mark's projects and his website and social media handles. The conversation then transitions into a segment called Five Questions, where Scott asks Mark a series of fun and creative questions. They discuss topics such as superhero scores, musical titles, diva moments, switching lives, and holiday song makeovers.

Takeaways

• Mark Byers has worked with drag queens, television shows, and movies in the music industry.

• He finds inspiration by staying informed about current music trends while also focusing on his own unique style.

• Mark believes in the power of music to convey messages and evoke emotions, whether it's through activism or creating fun and entertaining songs.

• Collaboration with artists and being able to transmit their message effectively is a rewarding part of his work.

• Mark has had memorable moments working with RuPaul, drag queens, and other talented individuals in the industry. Mark Byers is a talented composer and songwriter.

• The Five Questions segment is a fun and creative way to engage with guests.

• Superhero scores and musical titles are important aspects of composing.

• Diva moments can happen in any industry, including the entertainment industry.

• Switching lives with someone you've worked with can provide unique experiences.

• Holiday songs can be revamped and given a new style.

Chapters

00:00Introduction

02:25Interview with Mark Byers

03:08Creating Mashups

04:24Growing Up in Cincinnati

06:22Musical Childhood

07:37Coming Out

09:34Finding LGBTQ Tribe

10:28Education at University of Cincinnati and Berklee School of Music

13:08Career as a Songwriter and Producer

19:00Working in the Entertainment Industry

20:45Working on "Rough Night"

21:59Working on "Drag Me to Dinner"

23:29Working with Rhett and Link

25:10Working on "The Farewell"

28:37Working with RuPaul and World of Wonder

29:22Working with Drag Queens

32:18Intersection of Music and Activism

38:13Memorable Moments and Projects

42:04Staying Inspired in the Music Industry

43:18Upcoming Projects

45:29Closing Remarks