Best LGBTQ
Songs of 2023 (so far) features music courtesy of Cub Sport, Janelle MonΓ‘e, Miley Cyrus, Omar Apollo, and Sam Smith.
AAh, itβs June 2023 (when this is being published ) and you know what that means! Itβs PRIDE month
! LOVE IS LOVE, baby! At The Musical Hype, the goal is activism against hate, inclusivity, open-mindedness, progressivism, and appreciating and respecting vast differences through musical endeavors. There are so many awesome LGBTQ+ musicians grinding in the game. Some are signed to a major label while others are independent. Either way, these talented artists work incredibly hard to gain an audience, and should be commended.
Best LGBTQ
Songs of 2023 (so far) highlights 22 gems from LGBTQ+ artists. There are omissions and for that, I apologize in advance. However, hopefully, among these 22 songs you find some terrific additions to your playlist whether youβre a member of the community, and ally, or a big olβ music enthusiast.
Best LGBTQ
Songs of 2023 (so far) features music courtesy of
Cub Sport,
Janelle MonΓ‘e,
Miley Cyrus,
Omar Apollo, and
Sam Smith among others. So, without further ado, letβs dive into these epic LGBTQ+ gems!
1. Sam Smith, Koffee & Jessie Reyez, βGimmeβ
Gloria β’
Capitol β’
2023β―
βGimme, gimme what I want, what I want.β Woo! It is not hard to deduce whatβ―
β―Sam Smith,β―
Koffee, andβ―
β―Jessie Reyezβ―wantβ―onβ―
β―βGimmeββ―ββ―relax, itβs just sex! βGimmeβ marks the third single from Smithβs fourth studio album,β―
β―Gloria. βGimmeβ is a ball of fun β infectious from an initial listen. β―It begins with Reyez repetitive and utterly simplistic chorus, which is a VIBE and a half β NO CAP! Throw in an infectious beat that totally slaps (production courtesy of Smith,β―
β― Jimmy Napes,β―StarGate, andβ―Anjuβ―Blaxx) and βGimmeβ is on fi-ya!β―β―
While Reyez arguably gets the best part of the song, Smith and Koffee shine too. Smith continues to open up about themself song after song, album after album. Admittedly a sexual person, they reveal the cards in the first verse and pre-chorus. β―βSo,β―nutβ―before you come over,β they assert, adding, βYour eyes on my dun, dun-dun-dun / I need you closer.β Day-um, Sam! As for the pre-chorus, βVoyeurs are watching us / Giving me such a rush / When Iβm crazy and drunk on love / Give me what I wantβ¦β Koffee brings the reggae energy on this tropical, reggae-tinged joint, which means we get the patois. β―βMi rock yuh body, oohβ―suhβ―go rock yuh body fi mi / Come over yah so may mi push yuh body to the limit.β Yup, itβs giving good sex, ladies and gents!β―Clearly, on βGimme,β theβ―
β―Academy and Grammy-award winning nonbinary singer/songwriter is embracing his sexual side. We know Smith can slay a ballad, but it is also cool to hear him switch things up and open up. β―β― β―β―
Appears in :β―β―
- Awesome Songs: January 2023
- 13 Big Mood, Surefire Vibe Songs (2023)β―
- Gimme: 3 to 5 BOPS No. 37 (2023)
2. Miley Cyrus, βFlowersβ
Endless Summer Vacation β’
Endless Summer Vacation β’
Smiley Miley, Inc. / Columbia β’
2023
βYeah, I can love me better than you can.β Oh snap
,
Miley Cyrus! The groovy single
βFlowersβ commences her eighth studio album,
Endless Summer Vacation. On this pop gem, Cyrus sings about loving herself post-relationship. βWe were right βtil we werenβt,β she asserts in the first verse, continuing, βBuilt a home and watched it burn.β That is an accurate, poetic way to cap off an ended union.β― The second verse has a similar tenor: βNo remorse, no regret / I forgive every word you said.ββ― The centerpiece is the chorus where she is better off alone, at least, for now: βI can buy myself flowers / Write my name in the sand /β¦ I can hold my own hand / Yeah, I can love me better than you can.β Besides entertaining, emotional, and relatable lyrics, the music is lit too, thanks to production by
οΈ Kid Harpoon and Tyler Johnson. Despite her love troubles (Liam Hemsworth definitely appears to be the big culprit here), Cyrus makes sweet lemonade out of sour lemons on
βFlowersβ.β― Her voice is amazing, the songwriting memorable, and the sound β quite an ear-catching vibe.β―
β―
Appears in :
3. Omar Apollo, β3 Boysβ
β3 Boysβ β’
Warner β’
2023β―
βI should take your advice and find someone new / So I could have two.β That number is significant on
β3 Boysβ, the first single of 2023 by
Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter,
Omar Apollo.β― On β3 Boys,β Apollo continues to be open about sexuality, something that has always made me respect him.β― He adds a different wrinkle on β3 Boys,β drifting from monogamous territory to polyamorous territoryβ¦ to a degree.β― The thing is, even though the boy that Apollo digs (likely an ex) encourages bringing another into the fold, Apollo isnβt a fan of the idea. βSeems like everything I do take me further from you,β he asserts in the pre-chorus.β― So, itβs a play between monogamy, polyamory, and unrequited love. Woo!β―β― β―
The centerpiece is the chorus, where he soulfully expresses his issues with polyamory/still being in love with someone heβs not with anymore.β― He only wants one boyfriend (himself and the boy he loves) and doesnβt want three in the mix.β― βThree boys would work if I wasnβt so tethered to you,β he sings, continuing, βWhat should I do? / I canβt even choose / Iβm tethered to you.β I find this anti-polyamorous stance quite relatable, as many others will, whether itβs an open heterosexual or homosexual relationship.β― Also, unrequited love affects everyone too, regardless of sexual preferences. Apollo brings up relevant points about being dedicated to the ONE he loves.β― He sings well, superbly bringing the lyrics of this co-write with
Mustafa, Nathan Phillips, and Sir Dylan (who also produces) to life. It is easy to continue to be in love with Omar Apollo
β¦ him and his music, of course!
β3 Boysβ is another wonderful addition to his growing collection of bopsβ―β―
Appears in :β―β―
- Awesome Songs: February 2023β―
- Monogamy: 3 to 5 BOPS No. 20 (2023)β―
- BOY, These Songs Are About You (2023)β―
4. Janelle MonΓ‘e, βLipstick Loverβ
The Age of Pleasure β’
Wondaland Productions LLC / Bad Boy β’
2023
βI seen it from the back, and Iβm excited.β WOO! βBaby, Iβm obsessed, get me undressed / I wanna feel your lips on mine.β Double WOO!
Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter
Janelle MonΓ‘e delivers those sexy, sensual vibes on single,
βLipstick Loverβ. Produced by
Nate βRocketβ Wonder, βLipstick Loverβ appears on MonΓ‘eβs 2023 album,
The Age of Pleasure. βLipstick Loverβ can best be described as reggae-tinged pop/R&B record. Given the style and the laid-back groove, it is tailor made for those sexy vibes MonΓ‘e delivers.β― Her vocals are strong
as always, with plenty of expression and nuance.β― In addition to her personality-filled lead vocals, the harmonized vocal moments also deserve a shout out. One of the best examples of this is during the pre-chorus: ββCause for your love, Iβll take my time / Just wanna feel your hips on mine.β S-E-X-Y to the nth degree! The pre-chorus leads sensationally into the chorus where MonΓ‘e touts her lipstick lover β duh! βI really got a thing for my lipstick lover, lover, lover, lover, lover.β She doesnβt specify who that lover is, but, clearly, the sex is electric (βHope itβs something nasty, we can try itβ). βLipstick Loverβ gives MonΓ‘e another winner in her fine musical catalog.β―β―
β―β―
Appears in :
5. Jake Shears, βToo Much Musicβ
Last Man Dancing β’
Boys Keep Swinging / Mute Artists Ltd. β’
2023
βThere can never been too much music.β Amen,
Jake Shears (Jake Sellards), you handsome
, talented man, you! After releasing his debut solo album,
Jake Shears, in 2018, the
Scissor Sisters front man is back with his sophomore album,
Last Man Dancing, in 2023. Leading the charge is the infectious promo single,
βToo Much Musicβ which is #GIVING, PERIOD! The production (
Ryland Blackminton and Vaughn Oliver) is exuberant and spirited, perfectly suiting the voice and personality of Jake Shears.β― That beat instantly makes you want to get that disco finger up and hit the dance floor.β― Shears wrote βToo Much Musicβ alongside Blackminton, Oliver, and
Dominic Thomas.β― There are plenty of fun, noteworthy lyrics such as, βOh, I feel the sweetest salvation / Flowing through this heart of mine / I see the blooms of a budding spring / Your love, it makes me get up and sing.β Awe-inspiring! Basically, Shears informs us, weβve arrived, baby β Let the music take control!β―β―
β―
Appears in :
6. Kesha, βEat The Acidβ
Gag Order β’
Kemosabe β’
2023
βYou donβt wanna be changed like it changed me.β Remember that lyric, folks β it is a crucial, recurring line from
βEat The Acidβ, the first of two promo singles from
Gag Order, the fifth studio album by
Grammy-nominated pop singer/songwriter,
Kesha. Take one listen to βEat The Acidβ and it is clear that Kesha opts for a different direction β one that is incredibly refreshing. The production is a key part of the change of direction. This dark pop record thrives off its minimalism. Drums are absent
! βEat The Acidβ is hypnotic and intense. Kesha produces alongside
Rick Rubin, Stuart Crichton, and Jason Lader. The keys and synth work is utterly stupendous, carrying the rhythm and propelling the intensity.β― Vocally, she sounds elite, never over singing, exhibiting poise.β― She is never forced to over sing given the tunefulness of the melody β utterly infectious.β― Thematically, she experiences a spiritual awakening, recollecting her momβs advice not to βeat the acidβ (aka LSD), and connecting with God.β― The third verse truly stands out: βI searched for answers all my life / Dead in the dark, I saw a light / I am the one that Iβve been fighting the whole time / Hate has no place in the divine.ββ― The Kesha who graces
βEat The Acidβ is starkly different than the Kesha of the past and that shows evolution.
Appears in :
7. Jxckson, βRADIO SILENCEβ
THE DEEP END (EP) β’
Jxckson Music β’
2023β―
Jxckson is a prime example of a musician who grows better with time and exhibits innovative spirit β willing to try new things.β― His experimental spirit pays major dividends on
βRADIO SILENCEβ, an EPIC single from his EP,
THE DEEP END.β― Jxckson characterizes βRADIO SILENCEβ as being βexperimental in the sense of effects used to highlight the song and Iβm not necessarily known for slow songs.β What makes βRADIO SILENCEβ so great are the vocals, vocals effects, production (
Boy Sim) and the production effects, and how the theme and backdrop work in tandem with one another.β― Once again, Jxckson has done the day-um thang!β―β―What is neat about βRADIO SILENCEβ is the equal importance of voices and music.β― Yes, the voice β the singing β is the centerpiece, but the music has an elevated role too.β― βRADIO SILENCEβ commences with a warm yet slightly unsetting intro, prefacing the musical and thematic experience to come.β― Early on, the bouncy bass line is among many ear-catching happenings.β― Of course, the tune that Jxckson sings, with a unique vocal effect, mind you, is simple but absolutely beautiful. He sings with ease, barely breaking a sweat, while retaining his playful brand of vocals. Even so, we also hear this riskiness from Jxckson given the slower tempo and embracing even more emotional vocals.β― The chorus is by far the crowning achievement, with its robust sounds, and a brilliant, intentional βdistancingβ contrast between lead and backing vocals.β―Notably, during the second verse, the music is more developed with additional cues and rhythm adding to the epic musical excellence that is
βRADIO SILENCEβ
.β―β― β―β―
Appears in :
8. Ryan Beatty, βRibbonsββ―
Calico β’
Warner Music UK β’
2023β―
Reflective piano is one of many glorious production touches on
βRibbonsβ, the first
Ryan Beatty single of 2023, appearing on his third studio LP,
Calico.β― Focusing on the production (Beatty and
Ethan Gruska), in addition to reflective piano, βRibbonsβ features more ear catching keys, as well as strings.β― In fact, nearly the final minute-and-a-half of the song is instrumental.β― Ultimately, the backdrop is one of the big selling points of βRibbons.β Of course, the best touch regarding βRibbonsβ are the vocals by Beatty.β― He has a gorgeous tone and excels at balladry. Another pro for is the vocal production, which has consistently amplified his solo music.β― A tuneful melody bodes well as Beatty sings about the plight of love/ fleeting love (βIt took all of California / To remind you while you came / β¦ Ribbons running down your face / βCause youβve never known love like thatβ).β― Things grow more depressing in the second verse, where Beatty asserts, βAnd suddenly youβre older / Spinning the turnstile over and over / Whoβs gonna hold you while you sleep? Well, / Itβs brave to be nothing to no one at all.β Thought-provoking for sureβ¦ and sad
. Ultimately,
βRibbonsβ is well written, authentically performed, and thoughtfully produced. Ryan Beatty is a vibe and βRibbonsβ is a vibe, too.β―
β―
Appears in :β―β―
9. Just Shy, βSilhouetteβ
βSilhouetteβ β’
John Rowley β’
2023β―
βIβm gonna take my top off on the dancefloor / No Iβm not gonna drop off at the front door.β WOO! Question: Do you need a pop-house banger in your life? If the answer is YES β and it should totally be a HELL YES β then look no further than
βSilhouetteβ, the latest bop by the handsome, talented Australian pop artist,
Just Shy (John Rowley). Rowley brings the electricity once more on βSilhouetteβ characterizing the record as an emboldening, alluring and sexy aid to a big queer night out. Woo-hoo, it is TOTALLY giving that energy
(βThat particular joy I feel when boy meets a boyβ)! βSilhouetteβ is engaging from the onset, commencing with a slick, rhythmic bass synth and, of course, Just Shy.β― Rowley serves up a playful brand of vocals that are colorful and expressive.β― He has plenty of confidence and personality β #SASSY β not to mention a beautiful tone. I love the fact that he embraces queer vibes.β― He calls the single βa manifesto for how confident and free I want to feel when Iβm out.β #BIG MOOD! Melodically, it is tuneful from the onset.β― Of course, the most tuneful moment comes by way of the chorus, which absolutely slays.β― Accentuating those memorable, utterly fierce lyrics are decadent horn lines. Just Shy penned this bop, while
Dion Shaw produced it, superbly I might add. βI hope this track can embolden people to embrace their full selves when theyβre on a dancefloor.β
βSilhouetteβ exudes confidence; there is NO way you can listen to it and not dance.β―β―
β―
Appears in :
10. Mathew V, βMy Boyβ
Anything Goes β’
604 Records β’
2023β―β―β―
Mathew V (Mathew Van Vooght) confirms that jazz is NOT boring on his playful, sassy, tongue in cheek jazzy single,
βMy Boyβ.β― βMy Boyβ graces his 2023 jazz LP,
Anything Goes. While this original penned and produced by Van Vooght and
Ben Dunnill channels the past β a Marilyn Monroe-inspired record β it sounds quite refreshing in 2023. First and foremost, Mathew V sounds utterly sublime.β― He possesses a versatile instrument and has proven his ability to sing any and everything.β― Beyond that, being backed by a jazz combo is absolutely sick!β― The string bass! The piano! The light, traditional swinging groove on the drums! EPIC! However, letβs address what separates Van Vooghtβs single from the jazz of the past β heβs unapologetically GAY
! Clearly, Van Vooght characterizes about what his boy embodies and who he is NOT! Itβs cute, honest, and incredibly authentic.β―
β―
Appears in :β―β―
11. Kisos, βBite Your Tongueβ
βBite Your Tongueβ β’
Miller Place β’
2023
βIn my world everythingβs fine / Donβt understand why you are terrified.β
βAnd those kids at the border line / Ship βem back theyβll be alright / Follow the rules that justify,β pop singer/songwriter
Kisos continues singing on his single,
βBite Your Tongueβ. You should be mad as hell listening and reading the lyrics β that is the intent of the songwriting. Sadly, there are people in the world who have strong, incredibly insensitive opinions about those who are marginalized.β― Describing his marvelous single, Kisos states it is βa heavy, eerie track dragging everyone who is passive and unfeeling in the face of genocide of marginalized peoples.β WOO!
β―
βNow you leave us bleeding βcause you bite your tongue.β The theme is arguably the crowning achievement of βBite Your Tongue.β Saying nothing, aka being passive, is not acceptable, and honestly, plays in the role continued marginalization.β― Deep stuff that not enough artists tackle in all honesty. Of course, beyond the awesome songwriting, the voice, music, and production are all selling points. From the start, βBite Your Tongueβ is locked-in with the rhythmic guitar accompaniment, a driving force throughout the track.β― Furthermore, additional music cues and production touches (synths and such) make this socially conscious anthem even better.β― Vocally, Kisos has a fabulous instrument on his hands. His performance feels authentic with beautiful, expressive vocals that cry foul to these passive folks.β― Also, the harmonized vocals are worth shouting out.β― ALSO, what about the tune? There are some great melodic moments, executed by Kisosβ pipes stupendously.β― All told, he skwirted out a gem β a call to action bop ββ― with
βBite Your Tongueβ.
Appears in :
12. GRANT KNOCHE, βINTRUSIVE THOUGHTSβ
βINTRUSIVE THOUGHTSβ β’
GRANT KNOCHE β’
2023
Question: βWould you give into intrusive thoughts?β Hmm, that is a legitimate question! Intrusive thoughts are something else, after all!
βINTRUSIVE THOUGHTSβ is really something else in the hands of Dallas, Texas-bred/LA based artist/producer/songwriter,
GRANT KNOCHE.β― The bisexual musician excels vocally on this two-minutes and change pop joint.β― Furthermore, his songwriting, alongside
Gavin Hudner and Jades Goudreault, impresses too. βI could be a domino / Fallinβ right into you,β he sings in the first verse, adding, βNo one ainβt gotta know / Mama donβt raise no fool.β Ooh-la-la!β―β― β―
It doesnβt take too long for this handsome, talented young man to get utterly sexual! Honestly, the lyrics end up living to the cover art β a toned mid-riff
, jeans, already unbuttoned, being unzipped
. βTug on my shirt now I canβt speak / Lips on my neck so I canβt breathe / Ring the alarm, itβs a crime scene.β Indeed, indeed, Mr. Knoche.β― For good measure, how about a heaping dose of βPut your hands on my body like you know me /β¦ All night, break off in one night / Youβre all mine.β Yes, more like YAASS, itβs giving naughtiness! But as Knoche, all of 20 years young says best himself, βWhatβs the point of living if you canβt let loose a little bit every now & then.ββ―
Appears in :
13. Mad Tsai, βin my headβ
βin my headβ β’
Mad Tsai β’
2023
βI know itβs selfish to wish that youβre hurting / Just to prove that it was worth the / Pain and the joy that you put me throughβ¦β
Mad Tsai is the sugar honey iced tea.β― The bisexual pop singer/songwriter has a knack for making satisfying bops. Love is often a theme in these bops, and single
βin my headβ is no different.β― What is different is that Tsai opts for balladry.β―He penned βIn my headβ alongside
Jeremy Zuckerman.β― Fittingly, it features amorous production (Tsai and
Drew Polovick).β― Some of the ear candy includes dramatic strings and a wall of sound during the bridge. As far as those matters of the heart, Tsai has his heart broken. Ugh, how could anyone break this handsome manβs heart? Given the love pain, he sings authentically and expressively with a gorgeous tone. βBroke my heart, said our love was like movies / Iβm not the one that youβre choosing / God, why do I always love alone?β he sings in the first verse. Heβs been left and he laments his luck when it comes to love. βBut in this life, Iβm not complete / You found someone I canβt compete,β he sings, adding, βSo, guess Iβm stuck with loving you inside my head / βCause in another world weβd be again.β This is incredibly relatable, which is one of the reasons why
βin my headβ, as well as Mad Tsai as artist, is so lovable.
β―
Appears in :
14. JORDY, βStory of a Boyββ―
Boy β’
300 Entertainment β’
2023β―
β―βThis is the story of a boy / Iβd adore him if I had a choice,β
JORDY asserts on
βStory of a Boyβ (
Boy, 2023) covering the 2000s
Nine Days classic,
βAbsolutely (Story of a Girl)β. According to MTV, the openly gay pop musician is the first person to be granted permission to cover the song!β― With the blessing of Nine Days front man,
John Hampson,β― JORDY transforms the βAbsolutely (Story of a Girl)β to fit who he is (βHe doesnβt know my name / But I could give much moreβ). βStory of a Boyβ is another awesome addition to the ever expanding queer music catalog.β― In his hands, the record is both reflective and longing. βMoved here from a small town / Fell in with the wrong crowd,β he sings in the first verse, adding, βI donβt blame him βcause most people suck / And leave you crushed.ββ― In the second, he frets about Hollywood and says of this guy, βAnd I watch him on the internet / Trying to be happy / He wouldnβt have to if he knew that he could have me.β JORDY keeps it queer, and who would have it any other way (βAnd he looks so good / Walking through that door / Oh, I wish I could / Be the ending that heβs looking forβ)? Itβs incredibly cool he took a 00s hit and reintroduced it to a new generation from a gay perspective.β―β―β―
β―
Appears in :β―β―
- JORDY, βStory of a Boyβ: LGBTQ Bopz
No. 6 (2023)β―
- Story: 3 to 5 BOPS No. 16 (2023)β―
- 11 Intriguing Songs With A Story to Tell (2023)β―
- BOY, These Songs Are About You (2023)β―
15. Jude York, βMr Porcelainβ
βMr. Porcelainβ β’
Yoyo Music β’
2023
βOh, heβs so attractive, could never be him / I think he might break if my hand touched his skin.β Ah, the sheer beauty of the boy, as well as songs about boys! Australian pop artist
Jude York impresses with his fantastic addition to the queer music collection,
βMr Porcelainβ.β― Essentially, York paints a picture of a man who is a perfect 10 β handsomeness exemplified to the nth degree.β― βIβve never been so close to such pretty things,β he continues singing in ode to this god in the pre-chorus.β― Not only does York desire this hunk, but he also seems simultaneously envious and perturbed by his perfection.β―β―The chorus on this gorgeous pop record is the crΓ¨me de la crΓ¨me, shedding light on this complicated god. βMr. Porcelain doll, Mr. Instagram scroll,β he begins, adding, βDoes it ever get lonely up there on the wall / To be looked at, but never to hold?β Thought provoking by all means.β― Honestly, as a society, gay, straight, or otherwise, it is hard for us NOT to objectify someone beautiful.β― At the same time, personally connecting with someone so beautiful beyond looking or perhaps an empty, superficial conversation, makes them unattainable.β― βHeβs so beautifully perfect on everyoneβs phone,β York sings, adding, βTo be looked at, knowing heβll never call.β Everyone has their own version of a
βMr Porcelainβ, sigh.β―β―β―
β―
Appears in :
16. Binoy, βBoyhoodβ
Boyhood β’
Binoy Zachariah β’
2023
βThis is boyhood, it donβt do a boy good / Break βem down young, build βem up rough and dumb.β Sigh, not everyone experiences happiness as a child, particularly when they are perceived to be different
.β― Being gay and not fitting societal expectations (eww, toxic masculinity) as young man sets you apart, something that
Binoy (Binoy Zachariah) captures superbly on his song,
βBoyhoodβ, which appears on his 2023 EP,
Boyhood. The handsome, Kenyan born and bred singer/songwriter, now based in LA, provides a tale of the war fought as a boy because of being gay, perceived to be too feminine, and generally, being unaccepted.β― While βBoyhoodβ features picturesque production and terrific vocals from Binoy, it is a troubling listen because it pisses you off this is the boyhood far too many LGBTQ+ youth experience.β―β―
β―
The punches are thrown from the onset: βBloody nose / Blood on my clothes / It leaves a mark / When they hit hard.β Ugh
! They hit, of course because βIβm the oddest of them all / Another day in seventh grade / Of getting punched for being gay / No matter how much you act straight.β Again, ugh
!β― In a perfect world, this boy should be able to be who he is without being bruised, bullied, and perhaps worse, psychologically damaged.β― Furthermore, things donβt improve at home, with βthe house burning downβ from dysfunction.β― Another lyric sure to piss off progressive souls who cry foul regarding homophobia: βDaddy, daddy on the phone / Saying son, be more manly / Less like mom / Be more proud of where youβre from / And the woman in me rages like a storm.β F#Β’K TOXIC MASCULINITY!!!
βBoyhoodβ is a song that should make you angry regardless of sexuality. It has long been time for the world to move beyond stereotypes, toxic masculinity, bullying, and definitely HOMOPHOBIA.β― There is space for everyone in this world, and nobodyβs boyhood should be the war that Binoy sings about.β― A bop indeed, but also, this should be a wake-up call for many.β―
Appears in :
17. JSJ, βHoneyβ
βHoneyβ β’
JSJ β’
2023β―β―
According to the handsome, incredibly talented Canadian musician,
JSJ (Joshua SΓ€de James),
βHoneyβ is βby far the sexiest song Iβve ever written, from the vocals to the lyrics.β Ooh-wee! Itβs getting hot in here! From the intro of βHoney,β where the incredibly slick production work is unveiled, it is clear that this single is fueled by the sensual.β― Of the brief,β― but incredibly potent, sub-two-minute record, JSJ comments, βWhen I wrote βHoneyβ,β― I was in a long-distance relationship and missing my other half. I wanted it to feel like the song has the same message throughout; one of wanting someone else with you.β Mission accomplished, Joshua!β―β―
One of the biggest attractions of βHoneyβ are the vocals.β― JSJ is a beast β in the best way possible.β― His tone is to die for.β― His pipes are sexy, soulful, and sultry to the nth degree. He sings with incredible authenticity, easily convincing all who listen to buy what he is selling. Adding more fuel to his vocal fire are the top-notch ad-libs β the runs and the flawless, ripe falsetto. According to him, βThe vocals build the story of this song, which drips with sexual frustration.β The praise for this pop record goes beyond that sexually frustrated voice.β― The melody is incredibly tuneful and rhythmic; it sounds fresh. Also, the centerpiece of this short but sweet bop is none other than the chorus, where we all fall in love with Joshua SΓ€de James
.
βHoneyβ is an epic addition to the LGBTQ+
οΈβ
catalog.β― That said, if you are a music fan, specifically a pop enthusiast who loves to hear elite singing, βHoneyβ is a must-hear.β― Also, how about leaving you with more commentary from the artist himself: βThis song is a love letter to my exes and everything theyβve missed out on. Itβs time to show them what theyβre missing.β Absolutely, JSJ
!β―
Appears in :β―β―
18. Joesef, βBorderlineβ
Permanent Damage β’
Bold Cut / AWAL Recordings Ltd β’
2023
βThe edge of an argument stings on the tip of my tongue (You have something to say?) / Donβt you want me like you used to?β
βBorderlineβ, a standout from
Permanent Damage, the 2023 debut LP by queer, Scottish, soul-pop musician,
Joesef, speaks to how complicated relationships are. βBorderlineβ highlights perception, reality, and, per Joesef (via Dork), βknowing youβll never be able to be the version of yourself that someone who otherwise would have been perfect deserves, a right person, wrong time kind of song.β ββCause you were so hard to find,β he sings, adding, βI want you all the time.β Joe is struggling with this relationship which appears to be running its course. Even though the issues seem plenteous, there is desire for success, despite imperfections, mistakes, and shortcomings. The centerpiece is the absolutely beautiful chorus. βRemember what you love me for / Even when Iβm on the floor,β he sings, continuing, βHope is hard to find / In between the things Iβve said / A version of me in your head / But I could never toe the borderline.β Besides brilliant songwriting and expressive vocals, the production keeps things simple and intimate β perfect for this incredibly reflective, conversational joint.β―β―β―
Appears in :
19. Harry Strange, βgod damn shameβ
What a God Damn Shame (EP) β’
Harry Strange β’
2023
βWhat a god damn shame.β Wow! What a bold (and profane) statement,
Harry Strange. According to Strange, he makes music for βgays guys girls & all in between.β Cool! Focusing on the gay POV, he drops a surefire bop with
βgod damn shameβ. The two-and-a-half minute cut fittingly appears as the second track (and title track) on his four-song, 2023 EP,
What a God Damn Shame. If nothing else, Strange serves up plenty of relatable emotion, whether your straight as an arrow, or, queer AF.
βCut me down just a little bit / Come back round, say youβre missing it,β Strange sings following the first verse, adding, βBreak my heart / Yeah, you break my heart.β Ah, those pesky matters of the heart are what fuel this god damn shame he proceeds to sing about. More evidence arrives in the second verse, where Strange masterfully illustrates his partner (or former partnerβs) weaknesses:
βAll of the times I picked up the phone
To call you but youβre never home
You say that you see the best part of me
But youβre speechless when I ask you to speak.β
Damn! More like, god damn, of course. Strong language from Harry Strange but clearly, love, or the lack of love, will make you cuss something fierce. Beyond the lyrics, Strange sings well, while the production ( Jamie Clarke) and sound are #Winning. Also, shout out the EP cover art, which is, well, giving those gay vibes, too. All told, Strange might be singing about a god damn shame, but there is nothing shameful about
βgod damn shameβ as a song.
Appears in :
20. Cub Sport, βKeep Me Safeβ
Jesus At The Gay Bar β’
Cub Sport β’
2023
βI could lose it all, whatever / I just wanna die in our heaven,β
Tim Nelson delivers with heavy pitch shifted vocals in the chorus of
βKeep Me Safe.β βKeep Me Safeβ is one of many highlights from
Jesus At The Gay Bar, the unapologetically titled, fifth album by
Cub Sport. Notably, Nelson opens up more on this single than previous tracks from Jesus At The Gay Bar.β― In the first verse, he confesses, βWent and got a girlfriend / Just to throw them off trackβ (heβs openly gay).β― Eventually, he stops pretending (βBroke up with my girlfriendβ) and even though there are losses for being true to self, βI donβt really feel that sad.β βI wrote βKeep Me Safeβ about a euphoric but complicated time,β Nelson tells Variance Magazine regarding the single, adding, βShedding some light on it now feels like Iβm validating my younger self and celebrating something I was so ashamed of at the time.β Being true to self, particularly embracing oneβs sexuality is hard, but hey, itβs worked out for Nelson and his husband, bandmate
Sam Netterfield!β―
21. Joaicon, βboyfriendβ
βboyfriendβ β’
IconzRecordz β’
2023
βCan you hold me? / Because Iβm fucking sick and tired of being lonely.β Yeah, I totally concur with you
Joaicon, sigh
.β― The Dominican Republic-bred musician continues, βTonight (yeah tonight) (tonight is the night) / You can press all my buttons.β Again, I concur, Joaicon. Clearly, like so many of us single, lonely souls in the world, Joaicon wants a
βboyfriendβ.β― And guess what? Itβs not just any boyfriend, this guy he desires is already takenβ¦ #SCANDALOUS! But guess what? βI donβt care if you have a boyfriend / Hold me (hold me tight) (so fucking tight) / Let me be your only one.β So, to be fair, Joaicon isnβt pushing for a polyamorous connect β he wants monogamy.β― Basically, heβs asking the hottie to leave his boyfriend and become his!β―β― β―
Joaicon sounds chill yet potent throughout the course of βboyfriend.β Heβs silky smooth, exhibiting ample swagger, particularly when he drops that Spanish in there! βHola bebΓ©, quiero tocar tu piel / Vente conmigo ahora y volvemoβ al amanecer erβ.β― Woo β itβs getting hot in here ! Is Joaicon desperate? Maybe, but love (and lust) makes you do crazy things.β― Donβt knock the man because, he constructs a lit fantasy we all envy: βWe can lose ourselves in this bed / My lips kissing your skin / My hands grabbing your hips / Oh, baby, youβll be mine.β To the nameless guy Joaicon addresses on
βboyfriendβ, you should totally take him up on his offer!β―β―
β―
Appears in :β―β―
22. Adam Lambert, βHolding Out for a Heroββ―β―
High Drama β’
More is More, LLC / BMG Rights Management (US) LLC β’
2023
βWhere have all the good men gone and where are all the gods?β That is a legitimate question
Adam Lambert asks on
βHolding Out for a Heroβ. Sigh, I wish I had the answer! He goes on to sing in the first verse, βWhereβs the streetwise Hercules to fight the rising odds?β Theβ―
Grammy-nominated pop artist was NOT the first to asks these burning questions, however, His cover of the 1984
Bonnie Tyler gem appears on his album of covers,
High Drama.
βHolding Out for a Heroβ suits Lambert perfectly. Big-voiced and theatrical to the nth degree, Adam makes this hit sound like an original. Given his prodigious vocal skills, it is unsurprising that he can transform a song originally sung by the opposite sex and make it work perfectly for him.β― Of course, given the fact that he is openly gay , it also works seamlessly that his love interest is male (βItβs gonna take a Superman to sweep me off my feetβ). As intriguing as the verses are, it is the anthemic chorus where Adam shines his brightest. Besides the singing, the production (
Andrew Wells and Charley Bagnall) successfully reintroduces βHolding Out for a Heroβ for the 21st century.β― The synths sizzles, while the beat hits hard.
βHolding Out for a Heroβ does not sound like an anachronism in 2023.β―β―β―
Appears in :β―β―
- Adam Lambert, βHolding Out for a Heroβ: Covers No. 6 (2023)β―
- 15 Songs That Require You to HOLD On (2023)β―
- 13 Totally Heroic Hero Songs (2023)β―β―
- Bonnie Tyler vs. Adam Lambert: Head 2 Head
οΈ No. 11 (2023)
4 Comments
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