Joesef, “Borderline” | LGBTQ Bopz 🌈🎶

In the 2^nd edition of LGBTQ Bopz 🌈🎶 (2023), we highlight the song, “Borderline” performed by Scottish soul-pop singer, Joesef.

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 2^nd edition of LGBTQ Bopz 🌈🎶 (2023), we highlight 🎵 “Borderline” performed by 🎙 Joesef.

“The edge of an argument stings on the tip of my tongue (You have something to say?) / Don’t you want me like you used to?” Ah, those pesky matters of the heart are always fuel for the fire for a marvelous song.  Adding a little extra kick in the case of 🎵 “Borderline” is the fact that it hails from a self-identified queer, soul-pop artist, 🎙 Joesef. A brilliant ascending talent, the Scottish musician released his debut album, 💿 Permanent Damage, on January 13, 2023.

Examining “Borderline” from any angle speaks to how complicated love and relationships are. Furthermore, it highlights perception, reality, and, per Joesef (via Dork), ‘knowing you’ll 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.’ I would argue “Borderline” is even more complicated from a queer angle, where the dating pool is smaller and finding a partner is more challenging. “‘Cause you were so hard to find,” Joesef sings in the pre-chorus, adding, “I want you all the time.” Joesef clearly is struggling with this relationship which appears to be running its course:

“I’m stressed out, they don’t understand me

But you said you do

How do you feel? Can I help you?

I don’t answer, but I know that I should

But I’m glad that you stayed till the morning

Like you said you would.”

Even though the issues seem plenteous, there is clearly desire for success, despite imperfections, mistakes, and shortcomings. Of course, the centerpiece is the chorus which as absolutely beautiful. “Remember what you love me for / Even when I’m on the floor,” he sings, continuing, “Hope is hard to find / In between the things I’ve said / A version of me in your head / But I could never toe the borderline.” In addition to brilliant songwriting and an expressive vocal performance, the production (Joesef and 🎛️ Barney Lister) keeps things simple and intimate – perfect for this incredibly reflective, conversational joint.

🎙 Joesef • 💿 Permanent Damage • 🏷 Bold Cut / AWAL Recordings Ltd • 🗓 2023

Joesef, “Borderline”: LGBTQ Bopz 🌈🎶 No. 2 (2023) [📷: Brent Faulkner/ The Musical Hype; Bold Cut / AWAL Recordings Ltd; Anna Shvets, Monstera, Polina Tankilevitch, RODNAE Productions, Spencer Cooper, Uriel Mont via Pexels; Jim, Kurious via Pixabay; Hugo Herrera on Unsplash]