In this engaging episode, host Dan welcomes Roderick Woodruff, a Brooklyn-based singer, songwriter, and performer whose music caught Dan's attention on Spotify. Born in Detroit with a churchy background, Roderick shares his journey from choir boy to Off-Broadway performer, discussing his authentic exploration of queerness, creativity, and how he transformed personal struggles into artistic expression through his recently released album "In Between."

Key Topics:

• Roderick's musical background and Detroit roots
• His journey from choir singer to actor to songwriter
• Writing music during COVID isolation in Brooklyn
• Religious trauma and finding queer empowerment
• The creation of his Off-Broadway show "A Boys Room"
• Embracing authenticity and gender expression
• The importance of dedicated queer spaces
• The inspiration behind his album "In Between"
• Artistic aspirations and influences like Elton John

Episode Timeline:

• 00:00:17 - Introduction to Roderick Woodruff and his musical discovery
• 00:02:44 - Roderick's background in Detroit and early musical influences
• 00:04:00 - Shift from music to acting after high school experiences
• 00:05:05 - Moving to New York, COVID isolation, and songwriting process
• 00:06:58 - Religious trauma and confronting homophobia in church
• 00:10:22 - Discussion of "A Boys Room" Off-Broadway show
• 00:12:19 - Musical theatre inspirations and Elton John influence
• 00:15:41 - Roderick's queer journey and experiences with bullying
• 00:17:31 - Family conflicts and therapy over his sexuality
• 00:19:27 - New York's influence on his gender expression and identity
• 00:20:42 - Conversation about toxic masculinity and effeminacy
• 00:22:38 - The importance of dedicated queer spaces and community
• 00:24:22 - Message to his younger self about trust and authenticity
• 00:25:55 - Gateway track recommendations from his catalog

Resources Mentioned:

• Roderick Woodruff's album: "In Between" (released January 30th, 2024)
• Roderick's Off-Broadway show: "A Boys Room" (Ars Nova theatre, NYC)
• Mosaic Theatre of Detroit (where Roderick performed in his youth)
• Southern Methodist University (where Roderick studied acting)
• Edinburgh Fringe Festival (mentioned regarding a play workshop)

Guest Information:

Roderick Woodruff is a Brooklyn-based singer, songwriter, and performer born in Detroit, Michigan. Coming from a family of singers with a churchy background, he trained as an actor at Southern Methodist University before embracing music composition. His Off-Broadway show "A Boys Room" recently debuted with Ars Nova theatre in New York City, and his latest album "In Between" was released in January 2024. His musical style combines theatrical vocals with contemporary pop sensibilities, drawing inspiration from artists like Elton John.

Connect & Support:

• Listen to Roderick Woodruff on all major streaming platforms
• Follow Roderick on social media: @itsrickynasty across all platforms
• Subscribe to In the Key of Q on your favorite podcast platform
• Leave a five-star rating to help others discover the show

Spotify playlist can be found HERE.

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