Can We Get Behind Our LGBT Musicians, Too?

There are particular thoughts that occur when someone brings up the topic of gay music. For some, it is all about those artists who motivate us to gyrate on dancefloors, while others appreciate the songwriting and social consciousness of some of these musicians. The 70s and 80s brought us a huge variety of amazing gay artists like Sylvester, Michael Stipe, Pet Shop Boys, Boy George, Elton John, Freddie Mercury, Melissa Etheridge, Rob Halford, Indigo Girls, and Village People into the mainstream. Modern pioneers like Fischerspooner, Scissor Sisters, Steve Grand, Martin Sorrondeguy and Cazwell have built on the legacy of these queer artists and gained commercial success. These performers have married their musical talents with an openness of their sexuality in a primarily straight industry.

Colorado is fortunate to have a collection of gay musical artists that have entertained our community. Performers like Hotel Radio, GSTV, Damien Dane, Coles Whalen, Sarah & the Meanies, Probe 7, Zack Fay, and Sarah Slaton have provided many opportunities to see live performances and have released many songs and albums.  The huge monthly alternative dance night Ominous is co-produced by Sante Suffoletta, Tina Berger (Slave1), and out-and-proud DJ Ritual. It creates an environment where all sexual orientations and gender expressions are welcomed to enjoy an evening of music, dancing, art, and performances. Our local community is full of creative diversity and often shows that they are not afraid to be honest about their sexuality.

An unexpected ally in gay rights will be playing live in Denver on April Fool’s Day.  Leather Strip is one of the most popular bands in industrial music with creator and frontman Claus Larsen proudly being an openly gay man. He has been with his partner for 23 years, got married in Denmark in 1998, and they perform live on stage together. His career is not without brushes with discrimination. They have experienced a fair amount of homophobia from some members of the music community including fans and DJs, but is has not stopped them from continuing to put out extremely popular albums and touring the world. Although not identifying himself as a gay activist, Claus continues to be open about his sexuality through messages in his music and public persona.

The Denver-based synthpop band Probe 7, comprised of two gay musicians, Brent Heinze (me!) and Seth Moons, is one of the opening acts for the Leather Strip show. We will be releasing our new album and music video that night at the Oriental Theater with other performances by Ludovico Technique and Voicecoil. The release party starts promptly at 9pm. Pre-sale tickets may be purchased at OminousDenver.com.

It is important to encourage our community to search out gay artists who have the courage to live a life out loud and create art in a variety of forms. Support performers that let the rest of the world know that gay people already exist in the entertainment they already enjoy.