Gay Music: In the Key of Q
Dan Hall
Music-loving gay podcast featuring insightful and inspiring conversations with Queer musicians.
Roderick Woodruff: Harmonies, Heartbreaks, and Homelands
In this episode of "In the Key of Q," host Dan Hall interviews the talented queer musician Roderick Woodruff. Roderick, a Brooklyn-based singer with roots in Detroit, shares his journey of self-discovery and artistic expression. He recounts his childhood in a musical, church-going family in Detroit, his experiences of homophobia, and his eventual rejection of the music world after a confrontation with a high school music teacher. This rejection led him to acting, and later, to embracing his iden
Tophy Dye: Remixed, revealed and recovered
Discover “In the Key of Q”: A Celebration of Queer Music and Stories.Join host Dan Hall on “In the Key of Q,” a podcast celebrating LGBTQ+ artists and stories from around the globe. Tune in for queer music, charts, and diverse voices, and join the conversation using the hashtag #queermusic.This week, welcomes singer-songwriter and pianist Tophy Dye. A self-taught musician from Leeds, Tophy released his debut album “Skeletons” in 2021, exploring themes of love, identity, and self-acceptance. With
Lorrakon: Oversexed, overstrung and over there
London, UK. In the Key of Q is a music podcast, gaining popularity with its diverse content and engaging discussions. Hosted by Dan Hall, this week’s show features Lorrakon, a queer, non-binary, self-described “oversexed atheist” who discusses their experience growing up in Los Angeles and the stereotypes and misconceptions associated with the city and its people.During the conversation, Lorrakon shared their views on identifying as “straight-acting” and reflects on their journey as a Queer chil
Max Lawrence: Melbourne, Suburbia and dogs speaking Latin
This week, presenter Dan Hall meets with Melbourne-born Australian non-binary singer-songwriter, Max Lawrence. Lawrence talks about their musical background and how they began writing songs at 16. The episode explores Lawrence’s creative journey as well as their personal journey of gender expression, rejection and acceptance in the suburbs of Melbourne.They discuss in adulthood the freedom of expressing themselves through clothing and the challenges faced by gender non-conforming people due
Conleth Kane: Bombs, Bummers and Beautiful Things
Welcome to the latest episode of In the Key of Q, a podcast that shines a light on the LGBTQ+ community and their stories.In this episode, Conleth Kane talks to Dan Hall about his journey growing up gay in working-class Northern Ireland during the Troubles. He shares his personal struggles with violence and bombings in his hometown and the challenges he faced when seeking acceptance within the anti-gay right-wing Democratic Unionist Party.Conleth also discusses a mysterious cancellation on a BBC
Bright Light Bright Light: Mining, Madonna and Margaret Thatcher
This week, presenter Dan Hall meets with artist, producer, composer and DJ Bright Light Bright Light. Although living now in New York, he was brought up in Neath in Wales. And since rising to fame has toured and recorded with some of the best names in Pop history, including Cher, Sir Elton John, Erasure and Scissor Sisters.In the episode he talks about the isolation and suffocation growing up in picturesque Wales, despite its beauty. How the Conservative government had abandoned the coal-mining
Jxckson: Texas, Loss and Courage
Dan Hall hosts “In the Key of Q,” a show that features queer music, chat, and stories from around the world. The show’s guest, Jxckson, is a pop artist from Austin, Texas.Jxckson, a Black and LGBTQ+ musician, talks about his experience of growing up and realising that race and sexuality have an impact, and now he proudly identifies as a Black artist. In his music, he aims to provide a sense of belonging to his listeners and promote confidence and self-love whilst also dealing with themes of loss
Queers Revisited - Part 2: Bell’s Palsy, Heartstopper and Sleazy Vauxhall
This week, presenter Dan Hall catches-up with four previous guests and hears their latest tunes. Returning to the microphone are Paul Andrews, Nick Vaan, Vincent DiGeronimo and TIN.Paul talks about the challenges of developing Bell’s Palsy and his movement towards a more beat-driven sound. Nick discusses his upcoming new album, ‘Magnificent Obsession’ and how post-pandemic he is reconnecting with his lost creative self. Vincent drops a special voicemail revealing he was voted Number 1 in the Bea
Queers Revisited - Part 1: Comedowns, self-belief and getting horny
This week, presenter Dan Hall catches-up with four previous guests and hears their latest tunes. Returning to the microphone are Billy Mick, Venn Smyth, Cory Stewart and Carrington Kelso.Billy talks about his imminent new album, and his development of a one-man cabaret show for the international cruise ship market. Cory discusses his brilliant community-focused Queerantine initiative as well as his cross-Atlantic collaboration with producer Edward Russell from the ‘Inside the Groove’ podcast.Ven
Don+: Hip Hop, Islam and The Golden Girls
In the Key of Q is a weekly podcast featuring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music.Don+ is an independent artist and writer who has been writing and making music since 2013. He gained recognition with his first EP Raw Rhythm and Words (Apple / Spotify), which debuted in the top 40 on the iTunes RnB charts.He grew up in a house surrounded by music, from Luther Vandross to gospel and learned to make peace with the homophobia in some of
Taylor Gray: Bullies, Addiction & Black AF
Taylor Gray is this week’s guest. He is an R&B artist based in Los Angeles and curator of the popular playlist "Flavor Waves" on Apple Music and Spotify, which has garnered the attention of artists such as Victoria Monét and Ro James. (1:22) Highlight - Gray talks about his childhood musical influences, growing up in a house playing neverending Prince, Chaka Kahn, Michael Jackson, Toni Braxton, Anita Baker and Luther Vandross. And of course the wonderful Miss Whitney Houston.(15:23) Hig
Billy Mick: Cocaine, Toxic Masculinity & Dinner Theatre
In the Key of Q is a weekly podcast featuring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music.Billy Mick released his first single in 2019. He's performed at Pride and Gay Days events. And in America's pandemic lockdown continued to release songs and music videos. The autobiographical studio album Just Be came out in 2020, followed up by the long-player Levelling Up.Billy speaks openly in this episode about the challenges of growing up in a hou
Levi Kreis: Church, Chems and Tony Awards
In the Key of Q is a weekly podcast featuring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music.Levi Kreis is a multi-award winner. Having gathered himself awards from Critic's Circle, Out Music, and most excitingly, the Tony's. Born in Oliver Springs, Tennessee his music features a fusion of styles influenced by gospel, country, bluegrass, and even rockabilly.He says of his career, "I've always believed that our mess is our ministry. I may be mo
SonicFluxx: NASA, Synths and Mental Illness
In the Key of Q is a weekly podcast featuring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music.Sonicfluxx was born and raised in Florida in the United States. And in January 2020, his first single Nothing Will Ever Be the Same debuted at number two in the UK's LGBTQ charts. Quickly following this success was the release of his debut EP, Nostalgia.His premier performance on stage was at only one-month-old playing Jesus - a tough opening act to fo
Xantheartist: Kanye, Military & Self-Defence
In the Key of Q is a weekly podcast featuring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music.Xantheartist counts an impressive hundred thousand streams on Spotify. He's only three years into his music career, but has already secured a number one record with his cover Hapsburg Lippp. Before transitioning to a man, he served in the US military and went on to make a considerable name for himself on the drag king circuit.He grew up in a household
Matthew and the Keys: Potter, Madonna and Silenced BIPOC
In the Key of Q is a weekly podcast featuring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music.This week's guest is from Edmonton, Alberta in Canada. His music combines personal experiences, passion, and is inspired by artists as varied as Vanessa Carlton, John Mayer and Metric. He is an educator, a model, and an actor. He's sung since the age of two and has written songs since he was 12.Despite being a shy kid, Matthew couldn't stop his love of
Dead Method: Femme, Feelings and Welsh Resilience
In the Key of Q is a weekly podcast featuring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music.Lloyd Best performing as Dead Method is an alternative pop artist based in Cardiff, Wales. They started a solo career in 2018 and they've gone on to support 65 Days of Static and Public Service Broadcasting. In 2020, their debut album Queer Genesis was released, an exploration of queer culture and identity.The sceptre of Section 28 hung over his upbrin
Gentleman Reg: Nomad, Underground & Military Brat
In the Key of Q is a weekly podcast featuring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music.Gentleman Reg hails from Toronto in Canada. He's a singer songwriter, drag artist, DJ and makeup artist. He has released seven full-length albums with various bands, including Light Fires, and Regina Gently. A former member of the group Hidden Cameras, Reg has also sung is also sung with Broken Social Scene and Owen Pallett.Intriguingly he also had a c
A-Natural: Homelessness, Rape and Conversations with God
In the Key of Q is a weekly podcast featuring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music.A-Natural founded Natural City Music recording label and has himself won two international independent music awards. He's opened for T-Pain and has written and produced for multiple major artists. In 2020 he released the album, 'Kwame', a seminal autobiographical piece in 12 tracks.Gospel church music has been hugely influential on A-Natural with the c
Benjamin Stewart: Gender, Soundscapes & Lucid Dreams
In the Key of Q is a weekly podcast featuring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music.Benjamin Stewart has been making music for over 10 years and has written and recorded since the age of 12. They define as non-binary. Living an authentic life in America's Mississippi state. In November 2021 they released the album 'Spaces', a dystopian electronic eight-track instrumental work.Benjamin is constantly inspired by the everyday, accidental
Brandon James Gwinn: Broadway, Tumbleweed and Tori Spelling
In the Key of Q is a weekly podcast featuring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music.This week's guest is Brandon James Gwinn, a Live Nation touring artist and Billboard number one indie music producer. He won the Richard Rogers award for musical theater writing. Previous winners include such illustrious alumni as Rent's Jonathan Larson. His most recent album Bullit is a rock delight with glorious splashes of Hedwick, Scissor Sisters,
QBoy: Bullies, HIV & Victoria Wood
In the Key of Q is a weekly podcast featuring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music.This week's guest is QBoy. Born Marcos Brito he is a DJ, music artist, producer, rapper, and dancer. He was raised in Basildon, Essex and La Gomera, Canary Islands, being of half-British, half-Gomeran descent. He has five independent releases under his belt, he has helped lead the way for diversity and inclusion withi
Feed Takeover! The Song Surfing Podcast
In the Key of Q is a weekly podcast featuring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music.This week we're taken over by the Song Surfing podcast! It's a music discovery podcast showcasing the best indie music from around the world! Hear an eclectic mix of music spanning many genres and discover your next favorite artist.In the Key of Q is a weekly podcast featuring inspiring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories,
Paul Andrews - Revisited
In the Key of Q is a weekly podcast featuring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music.Featuring new material made public for the first time, LGBTQ singer Paul Andrews discusses his five favourite songs plus the one track that he'd chosen as a gateway song into his catalogue.Series 2 of In the Key of Q is scheduled to appear on 15 March 2022. Please click here for more information regarding the delay.Additional MaterialPaul on Twitter, F
A Message about Series 2
A message from presenter and producer Dan Hall about series 2.
Catch-Up with Ty McKinnie
In the Key of Q is a weekly podcast featuring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music.Just one week until the launch of Season 2 with QBoy! But until then pull up a chair and listen in on TyMcKinnie and I talking gentrification, COVID and dating, not dating, dating, not dating, definitely not dating, but sort of dating... :-)Additional MaterialHear Ty's original episode here!Ty guests on the pod's two Black Queer America specials: Part
Jsky - Revisited
Featuring new material made public for the first time, LGBTQ singer Jsky discusses his five favourite songs plus the one track that he'd chosen as a gateway song into his catalogue.Series 2 of In the Key of Q will begin on 1 March 2022.Links:Episode transcription.Jsky’s choices: Deniece Williams, Pavarotti, Jocelyn Brown, Larry HeardJsky’s homepage.Jsky’s blog.Jsky on Twitter, Insta, Facebook and YouTube.Jsky’s podcast.In the Key of Q composer Paul Leonidou’s online home.Please subscribe to the
Wuhryn Dumas - Revisited
Featuring new material made public for the first time, LGBTQ singer Wuhryn Dumas discusses his five favourite songs plus the one track that he'd chosen as a gateway song into his catalogue.Series 2 of In the Key of Q will begin on 1 March 2022.Links:Transcript.Wuhryn’s homepage.Wuhryn on: Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, SoundCloud, Amazon Music, Tidal, Napster.Wuhryn’s choices: Beyonce, Michael Jackson, Prince, Wuhryn Dumas, Solange.Wuhryn’s gateway track: 2U.In the Key of Q composer Paul Leonido
Brendan Maclean - Revisited
Featuring new material made public for the first time, LGBTQ singer Brendan Maclean discusses his five favourite songs plus the one track that he'd chosen as a gateway song into his catalogue.Series 2 of In the Key of Q will begin on 1 March 2022.Links:Show transcript.Brendan at Bandcamp, Facebook, Twitter, Spotify, YouTube.Brendan on Patreon.Brendan’s choices: Rufus Wainwright, Moloko, Frank Ocean, Years and Years.Other references: Common People (Pulp), Champagne Charlie (“Champagne!”), Ode To
SADBOY - Revisited
Featuring new material made public for the first time, Hip-Hop artist SADBOY discusses his five favourite songs plus the one track that he'd chosen as a gateway song into his catalogue.Series 2 of In the Key of Q will begin on 1 March 2022.Links:SADBOY‘s forever home online.Episode transctiption.SADBOY's artist choices: Tinashe, Robyn, Lykke Li, Daft Punk.SADBOY's chosen gateway track, AM To PM. In the Key of Q composer Paul Leonidou’s online home.Please subscribe to the podcast, rate and review
Blake Mundel - Revisited
Featuring new material made public for the first time, LGBTQ singer Blake Mundel (aka Courier) discusses his five favourite songs plus the one track that he'd chosen as a gateway song into his catalogue.Series 2 of In the Key of Q will begin on 1 March 2022.Links:Blake’s forever home online.Show transcript.Blake (as Courier) and his video in which “a black man can go out for a jog and make it home”.Inspirational gay NFL players at Casino.org.Blake's chosen artists: Beyonce, Paul Simon, Sufjan, J
Furillostar - new music!
In this bonus mini-episode, Flint-based alumni Furillostar introduces his new single, DWNLD which drops today. And as ever, a London shout-out to Mamma Star!Episode transcription here.FURILLOSTAR’s linktree can be found here.His full Key of Q interview can be found here. In The Key of Q publishes every Tuesday (‘Quesday’) and is available at inthekeyofq.com, on Apple, Spotify, Google, Stitcher, Gaana, TuneIn, Overcast, PlayerFM, Deezer, Saavn and most other podcast platforms. Its social media ho
Aruan - Revisited
Featuring new material made public for the first time, pop singer Aruan discusses his five favourite songs plus the one track that he'd chosen as a gateway song into his catalogue.Series 2 of In the Key of Q will begin on 1 March 2022.Support the podcast at our Patreon page for as little as £3 per month.Transcript here.Aruan’s band Furiku on Spotify and Apple Music.Aruan on Spotify and Apple Music.Aruan's chosen artists: Prince, David Bowie, Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, MadonnaAruan's gateway
Ty McKinnie - Revisited
Featuring new material made public for the first time, singer Ty McKinnie discusses his five favourite songs plus the one track that he'd chosen as a gateway song into his catalogue.Series 2 of In the Key of Q will begin on 1 March 2022.Links:Ty’s forever home online.Transcription here.Me. Him. Us. A sexual health awareness project for gay and bisexual men from Black, South Asian and other ethnic minority communities.Ty's chosen artists: Brandy, Tori Kelly, Whitney Houston, Nat King Cole, Beyonc
Matt Fishel - Revisited
Featuring new material made public for the first time, pop rock singer Matt Fishel discusses his five favourite songs plus the one track that he'd chosen as a gateway song into his catalogue.Series 2 of In the Key of Q will begin on 1 March 2022.Transcription is available here.Matt’s forever home.Matt on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.Matt's chosen artists: Madonna, Manic Street Preachers, Prince, Pet Shop Boys, SealMatt's gateway song, Radio Friendly Pop Song. In the Key of Q composer
2021 Christmas Special (Act 1)
This week, presenter Dan Hall welcomes back a Santa sack of guests, each with an exclusive musical treat for listeners. The singing festive elves are: Ty McKinnie (ep 2), Aruan Duval (ep 3), Paul Andrews (ep 9), The IZM (ep 10), Vincent DiGeronimo (ep 11), Matthew Presidente (ep 22), TIN (ep 25), Tommy Atkins (ep 31), Venn Smyth (ep 32), Mr Slade (ep 35) plus special guests London performers Derek and Orla presenting their Christmas single. Useful links: Support the pod at Patreon and
2021 Christmas Special (Act 2)
This week, presenter Dan Hall welcomes back a Santa sack of guests, each with an exclusive musical treat for listeners. The singing festive elves are: Ty McKinnie (ep 2), Aruan (ep 3), Paul Andrews (ep 9), The IZM (ep 10), Vincent DiGeronimo (ep 11), Matthew Presidente (ep 22), TIN (ep 25), Tommy Atkins (ep 31), Venn Smyth (ep 32), Mr Slade (ep 35) plus special guests London performers Derek and Orla presenting their Christmas single. Useful links: Support the pod at Patreon and gain a
Paul Leonidou
‘What have you got to be depressed about?’ is like saying, ‘What have you got to have a cold about?’In this episode, Paul discusses his Greek Cypriot roots, his battles with depression and suicidal thoughts, and his own journey into authenticity.Useful links:Support the pod at Patreon and gain access to exclusive interviews with every guest.Let’s chat about #QueerMusic on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.Paul’s homepage can be found here.Alumni Andy Pisanu is mentioned, and his episode can be fou
Aris Ziagos
‘Hang tight, because things will change and you are inspiring someone by being you and not being afraid to be you. And that is contagious.’In this episode Aris discusses the pain and inspiration behind grief which has been woven throughout his life, be it through the loss of his mother, his friend Ari Gold amongst others. He reveals the importance of being authentic as an artist, and the importance of empathy.Useful links:Support the pod at Patreon and gain access to exclusive interviews with ev
Ethereal and the Elevated
‘If we could all just be aware about each other’s mental health and not look down on each then we could actually learn to get on with each other.’In this episode bandmates Ethereal and Ant O'Donnell. duo whose music is inspired by the best of Anthony and the Johnsons, London Grammar and Portishead. In the episode they discuss the disrespect shown to trans identities, the Marvel vs DC comic wars and Veganism.Useful links: Support the pod at Patreon and gain access to exclusive interviews wit
Oli Spleen
‘After I got the diagnosis I start having lots of unprotected sex because I thought, “Well why did I even bother to be careful if I still managed to have this?”. In retrospect, I should have just enjoyed it.'Oli Spleen comes this week from the ever-sunny seaside shores of Brighton in England. His first album was released in 2013. Titled ‘Fag Machine’ it was a Velvet Underground-tinged take on Queer life. His most recent album is 2020’s ‘Night Sweats and Fever Dreams’ and is a complex and moving
Mr Slade
‘In our attempt to be accepted by mainstream media we’ve exchanged leather parties for quiche partiers and BBQs with neighbours.’Mr Slade’s sound features tinges of Grunge mixed with the British 80s Goth scene, a splattering of Punk’s guitar fury and a smidge of Pop. He discusses how an empowering Arts High School saved him from the familiar classroom Queer experience of isolation. He talks about the compromises Queer culture has made to be accepted into the mainstream, and also the homophobia,
Kieran Lewis (aka "Sevenths")
‘When we come out we free ourselves of the shackles of having to perform.’This week, Dan’s guest on In the Key of Q is British producer and singer Kieran Lewis, performing under the name Sevenths.His first EP was published in 2018. Titled “08/08” it introduced audiences to his mid-tempo synth-pop and catchy hooks. Most recently he has released ‘The Other Side’, a higher-tempo track drawing influences from early 1990s dancefloor bops.Kieran talks about growing up in a poor household in the North
Tramel
‘I think DaBaby is not understanding that the world is changing. And what I will say is that he has to have more of a higher standard of quality when it comes to dealing with people.’Tramel is the star of the popular reality YouTube series G-Status. In 2020 he released the critically-acclaimed EP, ‘Six Page Letter’ and this year two follow-up singles, ‘Favourite’ and ‘Popped Off’. He discusses his time on the show, and how honest conversations got him into hot water. He also chats about being ou
Venn Smyth
Musician Venn Smyth discusses synth pop, Scotish identity and ideas for a new Queer community.Links:Venn's website.Venn on Insta.Venn on FB.Venn on Twitter.Paul Leonidou (theme composer) website.In the Key of Q website.
Tommy Atkins
‘Not even independently were there Queer Country artists singing openly Queer lyrics. When you look at the charts on mainstream radio and there isn’t a single openly Queer person on there, something’s going on.’Tommy Akins is a British singer songwriter singing beautiful and surprisingly authentic songs in the Country Music genre. His debut album ‘Truth Be Told’ has just been released, and his previous single releases have hit number one chart positions across the world. He talks about perf
Cory Stewart
‘People don’t get that Queer music is all genres. For some reason we’re all expected to be George Michael.’Cory is a graduate of the Royal Conservatory of Music vocal programme. Canadian-born he has been a songwriter and student of music since the age of seven and has toured and performed in several countries around the world including Canada, Germany, the Netherlands and Austria. Cory is a great advocate of Queer Indie musicians, hosting the monthly online event ‘Queer Music Social’, an online
Daniel Versus the World
‘There’s enough boring straight people making boring straight people music, isn’t there? You look at the charts and it’s still Ed-fucking-Sheeran.’Daniel Vs the World released in 2016 his album ‘Remember Who You Are’ which features the records ‘Thank You’ and ‘5 By 5’ alongside ten other catchy tracks.In this episode he talks about the challenges growing up when you’re the have-nots and your schoolmates are the haves. He discusses his passion for strong female artists, and shares exclusively wit
Joey Salinas
‘It shouldn’t come down to heteronormative or gay. It should just come down to human interactions and relationships.’Joey hails from Northern Virginia in the United States and is the oldest of four children. His music entertains a myriad of genres include dance, R&B, rock, Latin fusion, and electro beats. Whilst his material is mainstream, he never strays from his core intersectional identity as a gay man of Latin descent.In this episode he talks about growing up in the multicultural regions
Ryan Cassata
‘Why would you choose hate over love? It’s so much easier to be kind and to love people. So why wouldn’t you just chose that?’This week’s guest discusses how one tiny guitar led him to becoming an award-winning sing-songwriter. Ryan talks about being one of the first trans youths to come out on American national television, and how his Faith has been an integral part of the love he feels both to the outside world and most importantly, to himself.Useful links:Support the pod at Patreon and gain a
Andrew M Pisanu ("Memory Flowers")
‘The Sega Mega Drive and masturbating they took the back seat. Suddenly this piano was the most amazing thing I’d ever experienced and I just couldn’t keep off it.’This week Dan is joined by Essex-born musician Andrew M Flowers. His first notable work was a 2011 composition for the Brockley Jack Theatre and he has since scored and sound designed a plethora of stage and commercial compositions. In 2014 he won the Waterloo Film Festival Score Competition, and has somehow also found the time to mak
TIN
‘I didn’t understand why no-one was hard! I was like, we’re in a darkroom isn’t that the point?!’This week’s guest hails from Brisbane in Australia but has made South London his home. In this episode, he chats about Queer attitudes towards Asian men, and the racism and fetishisation that grows from it. And more importantly, he talks sex-positive – LOTS OF IT!Useful links:TIN’s pages at Spotify, Apple Music and YouTube.British Asian LGBTI at Consortium.‘Don’t Say His Name’ reviewed at Scene and D
Daddy Dawg
‘Not only are you not supposed to be gay, and you’re somehow choosing this horrible life, well guess what now if you’re going to have sex you’re probably going to die.’’This week’s guest is a star on America’s Queer Country Music scene. His horny sex-positive songs are filled with all the sexy traditional Country tropes but with a cocksure man-on-man spin. In this episode, Daddy discusses beating depression and the isolation faced when there is an absolute lack of Queer visibility in media. He s
Dhorin Fireheart
‘It’s not boiled down to the people you have sex with, but with everything around you; the way that you express yourself through clothing, or music…’Dhorin has been releasing music for a number of years, including several singles and the 2021 EP, ‘Viking Rave Comp I’. His most recent single is the 2021 release ‘Olof’ and he intriguingly describes his sound as ‘Techno Viking Pop’. This week’s episode truly has a unique sexy Viking vibe!He has genuine passion for his country’s Folk history. He dis
In the Key of Q - 30 second spot trailer
Enjoy volume 1 of our artist-curated playlist by clicking here.The podcast itself can be found by clicking here.
The IZM (republished)
‘I was so scared to say “he”, “him”. I was making reference to pussy that I’ve never even been involved with. So it was like, I can’t keep doing this anymore.’IZM writes deeply personal beats striking at themes of self-acceptance, sexual rejection and toxic masculinity.In the episode he challenges the homophobia he perceives within Black American culture; his recovery from sexual trauma and abuse; and the challenges of coming out as one of Hip Hop’s first openly gay performers. His intelligence
Matthew Presidente
‘There’s something fun about performance. There’s something fun about being a character. And when you can marry that with some personal songs, a bit aggression, and a bit of an edge, it’s just such a wonderful way to get that out of your system.”This week, Dan’s guest on In the Key of Q is Canadian singer-songwriter MATTHEW PRESIDENTE (pronounced “President-ay”).Matthew Presidente hails from Vancouver in Canada. He isn’t restrained by style, crossing all sorts of genre. He has thus far released
Neyon
‘I don’t like labelling myself, or labelling anything. That’s why I use the term Queer because it’s widely used. You can use it in so many ways.’This week’s episode heads to the European mainland and the German capital city of Berlin. Neyon has been releasing singles since 2019 including ‘Disco Punk’, ‘Top Dog’ and the 2021 single ‘Glammed Up’. His sound is fused with 1980s retro pads and a dash of Soft Cell sleaze.In this episode Neyon talks about growing up in the small South German town of He
JR Price
‘If you can’t be witty or funny without tearing someone down, then you’re not funny.’JR writes light, catchy pop as showcased in his first album the 2021 release, ‘Daydream’. But beneath the catchy melodies and Britney-inspired production are tales of body shame, Queer toxicity and growing up poor in the American South.JR is a trailblazer in the Queer community, battling against the body fascism which is such a strong part of its culture. He discusses the importance of seeing beauty in everyone
JR Price
‘If you can’t be witty or funny without tearing someone down, then you’re not funny.’
JR writes light, catchy pop as showcased in his first album the 2021 release, ‘Daydream’. But beneath the catchy melodies and Britney-inspired production are tales of body shame, Queer toxicity and growing up poor in the American South.
JR is a trailblazer in the Queer community, battling against the body fascism which is such a strong part of its culture. He discusses the importance of seeing beauty in everyon
Aish Divine
‘I was angry. I was sad… and I was suicidal. Music saved me.’HELP FOR PEOPLE WITH SUICIDAL THOUGHTSAish writes intelligent and personal pop with echoes of his Indian heritage woven within the beats, production and lyrics.In the episode he mulls the concepts of mother and motherland, having himself a complex relationship with both. From the gruelling summers of India, the violent homophobia of New Delhi to the beauty of the Himalayas he is left with a deeply conflict relationship with ‘home’. He
Aish Divine
‘I was angry. I was sad… and I was suicidal. Music saved me.’
https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/feelings-symptoms-behaviours/behaviours/help-for-suicidal-thoughts/ (HELP FOR PEOPLE WITH SUICIDAL THOUGHTS)
Aish writes intelligent and personal pop with echoes of his Indian heritage woven within the beats, production and lyrics.
In the episode he mulls the concepts of mother and motherland, having himself a complex relationship with both. From the gruelling summers of India, the violent homophobia o
Carrington Kelso
‘It’s not a crime to not understand. But when that knowledge is presented to you, and you still refuse to grow from it, then we have an issue.’Carrington’s most recent release is ‘Baptize Me In TNT’ an acoustic collection of songs that showcase his smokey, gravelly voice to a tee. This has come on the back of his 2018 album, ‘Baptize Me’ featuring original studio versions of many of his tracks on ‘TNT’. He has just dropped the steamy single, ‘Come Over’.Carrington offers his thoughts on coming t
Tom Goss
‘I still face a lot of judgment from the gay community because I’m different. Because I like different things.’In this week’s episode, Tom talks about his experiences as a young man in a Catholic seminary, being a misfit within the Queer community, and the painful but rewarding honesty that comes from infidelity. He shares his love of authenticity within his music, his thoughts on Lady Gaga, and the importance of using his voice to spread the word about body positivity.In The Key of Q publishes
Nick Vaan
‘I’m making the music that I wanted to listen to growing up. And I think if nobody else like’s it, it’s there for me to enjoy.’This week’s guest hails from Chicago. In 2018 he released his first long-player, ‘Rituals’. And then in 2020 a five-track EP called ‘33’. Most recent is his 2021 single, ‘But a Dream’.In this episode, Nick discusses growing up in a trailer park and the challenges he faced growing up near the bottom of the socioeconomic ladder. He discusses the importance of Queer logical
Janette Mason & David McAlmont
‘David Bowie has it all: style, fashion, attitude, compassion.’This week, Dan’s guests on In the Key of Q are Jazz musician Janette Mason and singer-songwriter David McAlmont.A special episode this week celebrating the new EP, ‘Wall to Wall Bowie’. The five-track record contains amazing, fresh, Jazz-driven new interpretations of David Bowie classics including ‘The Jean Genie’, ‘Suffragette City’ and ‘Starman’. It has been created and arranged by Janette Mason, with David McAlmont and Sam Obernik
Rebel Will
‘I felt isolated. I also felt like I had to obey because it was better to obey and be in a space that I knew than to branch out and touch unchartered waters.”This episode contains references to suicide. Please click here for help and advice.Rebel Will hails from Toronto in Canada. He has a number of singles out including, ’Til the Sun Comes Down’, ‘Better’, and the 2021 release ‘Rocky’. Waiting in the wings ready for an Autumn release is the album, ‘Rebel Futurism’. He works for the LG
Emmet Michael
‘Even if you are living your truth, you still fear that people won’t accept you for it.’This episode contains references to suicide. Please click here for help and advice. In 2019 Emmet released his first EP, ‘I Feel Like I Just Woke Up’ and followed this up with the 2021 release, ‘I Hope You’re Home’. The title track of the album deals with his close friend whose own internal struggle ended in suicide.Emmet writes beautiful, soulful Folk-influenced songs. In the episode he speaks honestly about
FURILLOSTAR
‘There’s probably another little black boy somewhere in Flint, Michigan that feels unrepresented. He feels that he can’t really be himself because it’s not there. He can’t see it.’Please note this episode contains a discussion about a young person's murder. Support can be found by clicking here. In 2018 FURILLOSTAR released his first EP, ‘Pride’ and has since then released a series of catchy R&B singles and the 2020 6-track EP, ‘Flame’. Most recent is his 2021 release, ‘Vibe With You’ a duet
Black and Queer: Part 2
‘As hard as we work, nobody attacks us as Black, gay artists the way other Black, gay men do.’ (Sampson McCormick)In the Key of Q has so far published several episodes featuring American artists who identify as Black and Queer. These include Ty McKinnie (episode 2), SADBOY (episode 5), Wuhryn Dumas (episode 7) and The IZM (episode 10). There was a consistency of messaging coming out from these musicians about the unique (and often ignored) experience they encountered as Black, gay men living in
Black and Queer: Part 1
‘As hard as we work, nobody attacks us as Black, gay artists the way other Black, gay men do.’ (Sampson McCormick)In the Key of Q has so far published several episodes featuring American artists who identify as Black and Queer. These include Ty McKinnie (episode 2), SADBOY (episode 5), Wuhryn Dumas (episode 7) and The IZM (episode 10). There was a consistency of messaging coming out from these musicians about the unique (and often ignored) experience they encountered as Black, gay men living in
Vincent DiGeronimo
‘There was not a day that went by that I was not called fairy, queen, faggot. The typical slammed into lockers and all that stuff. Food thrown at me. People saying that they wanted to hit me with their trucks or their cars.’ Vincent has a beautiful lo-fi feel to his music, as can be heard across his two albums ‘Not Again’ (2009) and ‘Think. Strings. Machines.’ (2015). His 2020 single ‘1950’ is a thoughtful lament on his father and mid-twentieth century living in New York City.In the episode Vinc
The IZM
‘I was so scared to say “he”, “him”. I was making reference to pussy that I’ve never even been involved with. So it was like, I can’t keep doing this anymore.’ IZM writes deeply personal beats striking at themes of self-acceptance, sexual rejection and toxic masculinity.
In the episode he challenges the homophobia he perceives within Black American culture; his recovery from sexual trauma and abuse; and the challenges of coming out as one of Hip Hop’s first openly gay performers. His intelligen
The IZM
‘I was so scared to say “he”, “him”. I was making reference to pussy that I’ve never even been involved with. So it was like, I can’t keep doing this anymore.’ IZM writes deeply personal beats striking at themes of self-acceptance, sexual rejection and toxic masculinity.
In the episode he challenges the homophobia he perceives within Black American culture; his recovery from sexual trauma and abuse; and the challenges of coming out as one of Hip Hop’s first openly gay performers. His intelligen
Paul Andrews
‘I want so much of gay life to be normalised. Where it’s just part of everyday living.’Paul writes and performs complex, beautifully produced records with a touch of maturity and even melancholy. His 2019 album Light and Dust is a testament to love, loss and living.Paul talks about his experiences writing and remixing for artists such as Madonna and Phyllis Hyman; he reveals how the murder of a friend inspired him back into music; his theories on reincarnation and his almost all-consuming love f
Jsky
‘People are allowed to make mistakes. I make mistakes every day. I think we just need to be more open to the idea of growing as people.’Jsky is known for his brilliantly inventive outfits, charismatic personality, and celebrity-filled address book. He fronted Channel Four’s controversial reality series Naked Beach and featured in the long-running series, First Dates. He has released two 6-track Eps, Reality in 2019, and this year’s Á La Mode.But don’t be fooled into thinking this singer is a typ
John Kehl - Song Surfing Podcast
You've heard the trailer in the episodes, now find out more about the Song Surfing Podcast from the presenter and producer, John Kehl. These are not paid ads! I think his is a great show and would be of interest to those who subscribe to IN THE KEY OF Q. I hope you think so too!In The Key of Q publishes every Tuesday (‘Quesday’) and is available at inthekeyofq.com, on Apple, Spotify, Google, Stitcher, Gaana, TuneIn, Overcast, PlayerFM, Deezer, Saavn and most other podcast platforms. Its social m
Wuhryn Dumas
“It is possible to be this entity, this identity, this fearless Black, Queer person.”Wuhryn Dumas was born in Atlanta, Georgia and makes beautifully positive music. His style is a blend of funkadelic Pop, R&B, House, Jazz and not to forget an undertone of Soul. His first six-track EP, ‘Glitter On Fire’ was released in 2020 after 2018’s premier single, ‘Chemistry’.Topics covered in the episode include the power of Androgynous identity; the unfortunate absence of joy in Urban Music and Hip Hop
Brendan Maclean
“Music is healing for queer people because we find codes and messages that are hidden within songs, and we hear ourselves in them. And we see that caught in other people’s eyes.” Sydney-based singer-songwriter joins Dan Hall to talk about growing up gay in the Christian suburbs of Australia, singer-songwriter John Grant, the power of performance and his complex relationship with his commercial hit single, House of Air.Links:Episode transcriptionBrendan’s Spotify playlist featuring his songs
SADBOY
“Drake really opened the door for Rap to get that vulnerability.”Hip Hop singer SADBOY shares with us his upbringing, his blinding work-ethic and of course his percussive and deeply atmospheric tunes.Links:Episode transcriptionSADBOY’s Spotify playlist featuring his songs from this episode and his five tracks to save from Armageddon.SADBOY‘s forever home online.Vox’s short on Afrofuturism.Alyssa Jerome’s short on Neo Soul.Destiny’s Child Lose My Breath.Felix Howard in Madonna’s Open Your Heart v
Blake Mundell
“So much of my journey with not just my sexuality, but my spirituality, has been returning to a childlike version of myself.”WARNING: THIS EPISODE CONTAINS REFERENCES TO SUICIDE.Blake Mundell speaks about his highly personal journey through Faith and the clash with his Queer identity.He discusses his fear of coming out as an NFL employee, a shame that drew him to attempt suicide, and the emergence of the empathetic musician we see today.Links:Episode transcriptionBlake’s Spotify playlist featuri
Aruan
“It was just as well he was pretty because he wasn't very smart!”WARNING: This episode contains a discussion about a real-life extreme violent event.Metropolitan Police – reporting hate crime.GALOP – the LGBT+ anti-violence charity.Childline – homophobic bullyingNHS - lesbian, gay, bisexual or trans (LGBTQ+) mental health support.Aruan talks about his accidental outing at school and his lifelong music love of David Bowie, Prince… and Bucks Fizz!Other subjects include the Russell T Davies HIV / A
Ty McKinnie
“Where’re the black people? Where are they?”Smooth crooner Ty McKinnie chats about being an impossibly happy kid growing up Gay and Black in America’s religious South.He discusses first boy-kisses, Queer shaming in the home and the invisibility of Black Queer artists in Queer spaces.Links:Episode transcription.Ty’s Spotify playlist featuring his songs from this episode and his five tracks to save from Armageddon.Ty’s forever home online.Me. Him. Us. A sexual health awareness project for gay and
Matt Fishel
Pop Rock singer Matt Fishel discusses British Queer Suburbia and his own upbringing in Nottingham which featured its fair share of bullying, sex, Nirvana and Prince.He shares his thoughts on the loss of his first boyfriend, Queer culture’s obsession with youth and the music industry’s insistence that he silence the Queer messaging in his music.Links:Episode Transcription.Matt's Spotify playlist featuring his songs from this episode and his five tracks to save from Armageddon.Matt’s forever home.
Exclusive Preview!
In the Key of Q is a new show launching on Tuesday 23 March 2021, where you can find conversations with international Queer musicians.Say hello to us at pod@inthekeyofq.com - it'll be great to hear from you!Dan Hall (Producer / Presenter)