The much-anticipated Barbie soundtrack was a clear favorite among the LGBTQ community from the moment of its announcement. Then, once the list of artists involved was released, it became obvious that not only was this CD going to be adored by gay listeners, but that it may have been made for specifically that purpose.
Now, just hours after the full-length’s release, it has become even more of a must-hear for the LGBTQ community, especially for lesbians everywhere, thanks to the surprise inclusion of two previously unannounced tracks on the deluxe edition of the set.
Among the surprise additions is a heartwarming duet by the immensely talented and openly lesbian singer-songwriter Brandi Carlile. She chose to cover a song that holds significant meaning within the lesbian community: the Indigo Girls’ iconic track, “Closer to Fine.” Adding an extra layer of depth and emotion to this rendition is the presence of none other than her wife, Catherine Carlile, as they join their voices in harmony.
The couple’s version of “Closer to Fine” has been added to the Barbie soundtrack on the Best Weekend Ever Edition, making it a special treat for fans and a reason for some to keep streaming the just-released album. Also new to the project is a cover of Matchbox 20’s “Push” by none other than the star of the Barbie movie, Ryan Gosling.
The Barbie album has been generating excitement for months, gradually releasing hit singles from a diverse array of artists. With contributions from Dua Lipa, Billie Eilish, Nicki Minaj, and the latest offering from Sam Smith, the soundtrack has managed to embed itself in pop culture, even long before the CD arrived in full.
Brandi and Catherine’s love story is one that has spanned over a decade. They tied the knot in 2012 after their relationship began in 2009, and they are now raising two daughters together. At the 2023 Grammy Awards, their daughters had the honor of introducing Brandi before her soul-stirring performance in an incredibly sweet moment.
The Grammy-nominated musician’s latest might not have the makings of a chart-topper, but it deserves to be heard all summer in gay clubs.
July 15, 2024
Kesha is back.
Sorry, let me be more clear: Ke$ha is back.
The dance-pop singer has returned with her new single “Joyride,” officially kicking off a new chapter of her career. The tune is her first since being released from her contract with Dr. Luke, the man who helped propel her to super-stardom, but who Kesha also accused of sexual assault.
“Joyride” is an anthemic EDM track that can only be described as a banger. It begins with an odd accordion loop, which almost makes it seem like Kesha is leaning into polka. Don’t worry, that’s not the case, and her use of the instrument on the poppy cut somehow works brilliantly.
According to polling data recently released by Gallup, a razor-thin majority of Americans continue to believe changing one’s gender is morally wrong.
The same data, from Gallup’s annual Values and Beliefs poll, conducted in May, show a substantial majority of Americans are opposed to bans on gender-affirming care for minors.
While this polling is relatively in line with data from since 2021, the independent Trans Legislation Tracker shows a clear increase in anti-Trans legislation starting in 2020, with 85 bills, versus 32 in 2019 and 155 in 2021.
"I need more Stevie Wonder documentaries," says Brittany Howard, repeating, as if singing a refrain, "I need more Stevie Wonder biographies. I need more about Stevie Wonder's life, you know what I'm saying? Because yes, he's an icon, but still, the younger generation really needs to know more about who Stevie Wonder is and how long he's been good. He's been exceptional since he was a child. Some of the stuff he's doing with his music, to this day, is still ahead of his time. Still! It's incredible. And it teaches me so much every time I listen to it."
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