Joe Daccache, F.A.G. | LGBTQ Bopz

In the 23^rd edition of LGBTQ Bopz (2023), we highlight the song, “F.A.G.” performed by Lebanese pop artist, Joe Daccache.  

Be prepared to #SLAY! LGBTQ Bopz embraces, highlights, and celebrates singles and tracks by LGBTQIA musicians or allies.  In this column, we provide background and insight into the respective musician(s), as well as analyze + go gaga over the decadent bops being served up.  Furthermore, when the music dictates deeper, more transcendent discussion, we ensure the point is articulated to the fullest.  All styles of music are welcome while the BOPZ can be classics or brand-spanking new. So, without further ado, in the 23^rd edition of LGBTQ Bopz (2023), we highlight “F.A.G.” performed by Joe Daccache.

via GIPHY

As a teacher, I am programmed to correct slurs, particularly the godawful, homophobic f-slur.  Just typing the word faggot is triggering. Hopefully, you have never been called or referred to by that terrible word; hopefully, you never will. But, if you have, likely you remember the incident as clear as day.  For me, it was during college, in the mid-aughts, when an ex-roommate assumed I was asleep, while on the phone with friends, referred to me by the word.  I will NEVER forget that – I’m a true Virgo .  I say that to say, it’s NEVER appropriate to refer to anyone by that term, plus, it just doesn’t sound good or nice. Sticks and stones may break my words, but words will never hurt me is the motto, but still, mean things bother you.  That leads into turning a negative situation, experienced by many gays, into something positive.  Back during Pride Month in 2021, Lebanese singer/songwriter Joe Daccache released the empowering “F.A.G.”. He DOES NOT utter the degrading f-slur, but rather uses the short slang as an acronym worth supporting: “Fabulous and Gay.”

The handsome Joe Daccache is onto something with “F.A.G.”.  His voice sounds utterly fantastic (slay King), particularly when he ascends into his upper register.  “F.A.G.” features picturesque production and rhythmic, tuneful melodies.  There’s sweetness despite the fact that it is clear that Daccache has experience his own share of homophobia. “Hey, don’t you know when you call me by that name / I don’t let it throw me ‘ Let the bullets rain,” he sings in the first verse, adding, “I’ve been through all this pain, but this is just how I was made.” Amen, Joe! In the brief second verse, Daccache asserts, “Unashamed of my creation / Turn it up, now go on to say it.” So many times, there is ample shame associated with being a member of the LGBTQ+ population, regardless which letter characterizes you. Gay Surinamese-bred musician XILLAN spoke of ridding of shame on “Oh Happy Day”.  Rather than cry and suffer, Daccache encourages us to be true to self: “I’m loving all this energy / I never felt so fucking free / I know that I’m fabulous and gay.” Don’t let anybody break you with their words, let alone their narrow-minded view of a world that is big enough for everybody! “F.A.G.” speaks volumes, and I’m sad my first experience with this gem was two years after its release. Better late than never!

Joe Daccache • “F.A.G.” • Joe Daccache • 2021

Joe Daccache, F.A.G.: LGBTQ Bopz No. 23 (2023) [: Brent Faulkner/ The Musical Hype; Joe Daccache; Anna Shvets, Monstera, Polina Tankilevitch, RODNAE Productions, Spencer Cooper, Uriel Mont via Pexels; Jim, Kurious via Pixabay; Hugo Herrera on Unsplash]