As he was recovering from a life-shaking breakup, out singer/songwriter Kisos penned (in real time) his upcoming EP, sweet nothings, featuring one track for each of the 5 stages of grief.
The lead single, “Happily Ever After,” is a bouncy electro-pop bop with the handsome artist deep in denial, using delusion as poisoned motivation to better himself and survive the pain of seeing his ex with someone new.
In an interview with Billboard, Kisos revealed that many of the sets and props for his new video are the actual locations of his heartbreak. The bed in the video, for example, belongs to a different ex-boyfriend (and now friend) of his, where he spent days dealing with the breakup the song talks about. “It’s also where I literally/figuratively beat myself up over the ex after him, running to John (his friend and former boyfriend) for comfort when I couldn’t sleep alone,” he says
Making the video as authentic as possible was important to the singer; he says that he used real objects from his life as props in order to create a relatable experience for his audience. “I’m not kidding when I say I wanted to make the most honest visual, even if it’s embarrassing!” he says. “I’ll show the vulnerable parts of myself if it helps others feel less alone or ashamed.”
Jeremiah Lloyd Harmon, the gay son of a Maryland pastor, scored last night as he performed in front of his parents for the first time on his journey with American Idol.
With coaching from none other than Queen frontman Adam Lambert, Harmon offered a emotional, stripped down version of “Who Wants To Live Forever,” which resulted in a standing ovation from the audience, the judges, and most importantly, his parents.
He sang an original song he’d written, titled “Almost Heaven,” which questioned if there is a place for him in heaven. The song choice put the tension with his family center stage.
Last night’s song choice of “Who Wants To Live Forever,” famously sung by openly bisexual rocker Freddie Mercury, made it clear Harmon wanted to send a message with his parents in attendance.
But, while many are referring to the 26-year-old’s family ‘shunning him,’ he recently told Out that portrayal of his family dynamic wasn’t quite accurate.
“I’ve never said that my parents have rejected me, or don’t accept me as me, their son,” he shared with Out. “And that in combination with my parents not being able to make it to the first couple performances and [not being] featured on the show yet, you know, it’s easy for people to take that and run with it … in reality, they’re just trying to integrate this experience and they’re processing it in their own way.”
Judge Katy Perry, who is also a ‘pastor’s kid,’ has championed Harmon from day one. After his haunting performance which showed off his effortless high notes, she had only praise.
“Jeremiah, you really embodied the spirit of Freddie Mercury with that performance,” said Perry. “It was so beautiful seeing you perform in front of your parents for the first time, and it’s so wonderful to see your journey.”
“And to see your parents come out here, and support you, and accept you, and know it’s a “come as you are” situation,” she continued. “God bless you.”
Luke Bryan remarked on Harmon’s ability to “take us on a complete journey.”
“That was a journey that built and built and built, and you just took it to the next level,” Bryan gushed. “I loved every second of it.”
And elder statesman Lionel Richie chimed in, “There’s something you just can’t teach – the ability to draw people in.”
“The dynamics of your voice, you’ve got a band that sounds like that much power coming behind you, and you take the band to the next level,” said Richie. “That means you’re doing something powerful.”
“Your voice is something to be reckoned with,” he finished, adding, “I’m very proud of you and keep up the good work. The best time to do it is in front of your parents.’
Stay tuned, folks, because Harmon made it to the Top 6 now.
Could we have our first openly gay American Idol?
Jeremiah’s parents gave him a standing ovation attending their first AI episode
Out singer/songwriter Parker Matthews debuts his latest single and music video, “Running From Me.”
I’ve been listening (and watching) the talented musician since he proved he’s definitely no “Hit and Run” last May, and he’s had me “Feelin’ Right” ever since.
In each release, Matthews consistently brings top-shelf production, pop-synth goodness and a hooky chorus with smooth vocal delivery.
“Pop music just might have found its next star in Parker Matthews” – The Musical Hype
“Matthews’ confidence in his sexuality glows onscreen” – Pop Dust
I chatted with the handsome singer about “Running From Me,” the power of confidence and the importance of vibe in a recording session.
The Randy Report: After bouncy upbeat bops like “Hit and Run” and the liquid-sexy “Feelin’ Right,” your new single “Running From Me” is a dance floor banger. Do you plan on switching it up or is just this how the music comes?
Parker Matthews: I think I’ve grown a lot as an artist and had a great time exploring the different sides of who I am, and what I want to write.
This record was a very defining one for me, not only because it’s the first of some amazing new material I have on the way, but also because I wanted to instill a sense on confidence in the listener.
I wrote this record based off a personal story of mine, but I want the listener to realize that they hold the power and the confidence to do whatever they want because with that mentality, nobody’s gonna be running from them.
TRR: You dance in the new music video – is this the first time fans see you bust a move other than some party bouncing in “Hit and Run?”
PM: It was so great! I grew up dancing, and to be able to be on camera doing that was absolutely thrilling. My team and I brought in some incredible dance talent and I will definitely be bringing that vibe onto future records/ videos as well.
TRR: Your lyrics tend to express confidence in yourself. Are you as confident in real life? PM: You know, it’s interesting… When I’m being the artist side of me as ‘Parker Matthews’ on a shoot or on stage, I am super outgoing and confident. However, when I’m just with my friends, or out for the night, I’m pretty quiet and always kinda stay in the background.
Somebody told me that you’re trying to own me
But I’m never lonely cause ain’t nobody running from me
And don’t say you know how to win over me now
You know that I don’t don’t bow cause ain’t nobody running from me
TR: At this point, do you have a “process” in writing/recording? Or is every project approached differently?
PM: Every record has a general outline of being written and recorded the same way, but at the same time, it’s always a little different. A lot of the time, when writing, I’ll start with the chorus, and build from there.
However, for “Running From Me,” I actually started with the very first line of the record, ‘You make me feel like everybody’s watching me…’ and I sat down and went from there.
When it comes to recording, I am all about the VIBE. Depending on what studio I’m in, I make sure all the candles are lit and we’re going in on that session. Having a good vibe during a recording session really translates to the record, in my opinion.
TRR: Who are you listening to today? Who’s at the top of your playlist?
PM: I’m listening to a little bit of everything right now. If the record speaks to me, I’ll get down with it for sure.
I love pop and dance music, but I also love a good power ballad, much like the record I have coming next (hint hint, wink wink). Thank you and the LGBTQ community for you amazing support!
You can follow Parker Matthews on Instagram here, Facebook here and check out his official website here.
“Running From Me“ is now available on iTunes and all digital download sites.
And you can check out my podcast interview with Parker by clicking the play button below.
• Paleontologist Francesc Gascó is giving you serious beard and biceps (above).
• Democratic presidential hopeful Mayor Pete Buttigieg told CNN today he doesn’t have a problem with Vice President Mike Pence having religious beliefs, but added, “My problem is when those religious beliefs are used as an excuse to harm other people.”
Michele Bachmann has never seen “a more biblical president” than Trump: “We will, in all likelihood, never see a more godly, biblical president again in our lifetimes.” pic.twitter.com/xnqCZRaq5f
• Out Canadian singer-songwriter Mathew V has released the music video for his latest single, “Catching Feelings.” Directed by Gabriel Adelman, the video follows Mathew V through an extraterrestrial adventure set to an extremely danceable track.
“‘Catching Feelings’ can be counted as one of the first evocatively sun-soaked jams of 2019. Toned, smoothed out & soulful.” – EQ Music
His debut album, The Fifth, was released in the spring of 2018 and charted in both Canada and the US. The album earned critical acclaim from press outlets such as Nylon and Billboard, marking Mathew as an artist to watch.
His catalogue is now approaching 10 million online streams. Hit play below.
American Idol went live last night as the Top 14 look to the public’s votes to continue in the competition.
The show will reveal Monday night which contestants will go on to the Top 10. America’s votes will determine 7 of those spots, while the judges will choose 3 contestants to continue.
Out singer/songwriter Jeremiah Lloyd Harmon knocked another song out of the park continuing his string of solid performances.
As I’ve previously reported, his story as the openly gay son of a pastor in Maryland has already touched viewers. Following his progress, we’ve learned his family didn’t exact embrace his coming out three years ago.
But that drama was nowhere in sight last night as the 26-year-old sat down at the piano to sing.
Putting his effortless high notes front and center, Harmon delivered a passionate, gospel-tinged version of Elton John’s classic, “We All Fall in Love Sometimes.”
The judges were falling over themselves to praise the young singer from Maryland.
American Idol judges Lionel Richie, Katy Perry & Luke Bryan
“You just took an Elton John song, you went past Freddy Mercury, and you ‘Jeremiah-ed’ the whole thing,” said Lionel Richie.
Comparing Harmon to the two queer pop icons, Richie added, “There are notes that Elton can’t do; then there are notes that Freddie Mercury can’t do; and you went to a Z flat somewhere up there past Pluto and Mars. It was amazing. And your voice is amazing, and your career is going to be amazing.”
Katy Perry, who is also a ‘PK’ (pastor’s kid), has been a staunch supporter of Harmon’s from day one.
“I’m a mess,” she confessed, clearly shook. “I’m just so proud.”
“You’re such a gift,” she continued, effusive with praise. “ You’re a light to the world. Your story is everything, and your talent supersedes all.”
“The whole time I’m watching that I’m like I’m not worthy to be sitting here watching,” added Luke Bryan — points were made. “I just see Jeremiah Lloyd Harmon on this big billboard.”
The judges loved his performance, but we’ll have to see how the voting viewers respond.
What do you think, readers? Is Jeremiah Lloyd Harmon the next American Idol?
Growing up in New Orleans, Louisiana, Rilan knew he wasn’t like the other kids as he spent his time acting, singing, dancing and listening to 70s glam rock and 80s synth pop artists like David Bowie, Prince and Boy George.
When the time came to begin his journey as an adult, Rilan chose to head to Los Angeles and pursue music rather than spend years studying in college.
Rilan thought he would find in the city of angels a community of artists looking to express their authentic selves.
It turns out that wasn’t what the young artist experienced in Hollywood.
(from the music video “Love Or Drugs”)
“Everyone pretends they’re flawless, famous, and filthy rich when in reality they’re broke, broken, and bitter, constantly looking for anything that will make them feel better,” Rilan laments. “Most of the time, that’s sex or drugs.”
Not one to mince words, the 24-year-old calls it like he sees it.
“Everyone I’ve dated in LA has been a user,” says Rilan. “A user of people, money, substances or all three. They are who ‘Love Or Drugs’ is about.”
“‘Love Or Drugs’ is a satire,” he explains. “It’s everything I’ve seen while going out and trying to fit in in the Los Angeles music scene. It’s everything that people do but don’t talk about. It’s ridiculous, it’s over the top, it’s bullshit, and that’s exactly what Hollywood is.”
The former GLEE cast member (he spent 2015 as a ‘Dalton Academy Warbler’) says the only way he knows how to deal with the fakery is to make fun of it.
With an all-star team that includes manager Randy Jackson (American Idol) and Lady Gaga’s choreographer Richy Jackson, Rilan envisioned the music video for “Love Or Drugs” as “an exaggeration of parties in LA.”
Calling the new song “a big F U to pop culture,” the young artist says he rejects what popular music has come to represent nowadays, “Money, sex, drugs, and superficiality.”
Proud of having “never been normal,” Rilan dedicates the new song to “all of the weird kids who showed up to the party and left early because it really wasn’t cool after all.”
Fans think the singer/dancer is pretty cool, though. His debut music video, “Chemical,” has garnered over 2.2 million views on YouTube.
Indie singer/songwriter Tom Goss shares his latest music video, “Wake Alive.”
Directed by Goss and acclaimed Baltimore-based artist Scott G. Brooks, the video literally visualizes the concept that we put ourselves in boxes.
And in doing so, find ourselves trapped in restrictive perceptions others have of us.
Says Goss, “Only by bursting out can we live the free, vibrant lives we’re meant to.”
From “Wake Alive:”
There’s no sense fighting who you are So release your ghosts and reveal your soul You find the time and means to tell your story Cause in the end it’s all that will live on
Do you put yourself in a box?
The energetic, upbeat pop track comes from Goss’s album, What Doesn’t Break, which was recorded during an emotionally turbulent year of transition after his cross-country move from Washington DC to Los Angeles.
But turbulence and tension can lead to artistic achievement as evidenced by What Doesn’t Break.
Reviewing the album, Killian Melloy of Edge Media Network, praised the collection:
“The ten tracks on Tom Goss’ new album “What Doesn’t Break” have a richer and more complex sound, while still being recognizably Goss in style — though in some cases, the new songs take darker lyrical turns, coupled with equally dark (though compelling) musical ideas.”
In addition, NewNowNext has called Goss’s music “dazzling,” and The Daily Beast says his work is “moving and beautifully composed.”
Check out the latest from Goss, “Wake Alive,” below.
Out singer/songwriter Matt Zarley’s new music video takes on Sara Bareilles’ masterwork, “She Used To Be Mine.”
As we all know, life is not neat, life is not a straight line.
The road may stretch out in front of us, but every now and then, we do glance at the rearview mirror:
He’s imperfect, but he tries He is good, but he lies He is hard on himself He is broken and won’t ask for help He is messy, but he’s kind He is lonely most of the time He is all of this mixed up and baked in a beautiful pie He is gone, but he used to be mine
Matt Zarley
Coming from this introspective viewpoint, Zarley finds himself weighing some past decisions.
Zarley writes:
Before I started recording, I spent several really wonderful years doing theatre in New York. When I first heard this song, it reminded me of those experiences and how close I hold them to my heart.
I miss them.
I think any of us can relate to this song and it’s message. I think most of us have regrets to an extent. I know there are times when I reflect on my life and think to myself that this is not where I envisioned myself. Not to say that I am not grateful for my life… cuz I am.
But, if I could go back and have a do-over, there are definitely some things I would change.
There are days when I really miss the guy I used to be…he used to be mine.
The guitar-driven approach to the track, with a lovely yet pensive viola at just the right time, makes a perfect frame for Zarley’s muscular vocals.
• The Massachusetts House of Representatives has passed a bill banning the practice of so-called ‘conversion therapy’ on minors. With full passage, Mass would become the 16th state (plus the District of Columbia) to ban conversion therapy for minors.
• Utah’s House of Representatives approved a bill that would give teeth to the state’s hate crime law – but only after making not only LGBTQ people but “political expression” protected by the law.
• Los Angeles-based electro-pop musician, Devin Tait, recently debuted his new music video, “By My Side,” from his album, Art Damage.
The video is an wistful homage to late 80s-era Halloween nights, and two young men who discover that there may be more to be found in removing your mask than in hiding who you are.
