Tag: Leland

Exclusive: Rita Ora Credits The Gay Community For Feeling Accepted: ‘Everything I Do is With Them in Mind’

Pop sensation Rita Ora is set to captivate audiences once again, returning to her musical roots with a new single and an electrifying performance at WorldPride 2025 in Washington, DC. The event, scheduled for June 6, will see Ora debut her new track ‘Heat’, co-written with acclaimed songwriter Leland, marking a significant moment in her ongoing celebration of the LGBTQ+ community.

A Personal and Creative Revival

In an exclusive interview with Gayety, Ora shared insights into her creative journey, revealing that her new music reflects a return to her authentic self. “I’ve just gone back to my roots,” she explained. “I just went back to being sexy and being fun and not giving a shit.” This shift comes after a period of introspection and personal growth, including her marriage to filmmaker Taika Waititi. Ora describes her upcoming album as a “personal letter” to her fans, emphasizing themes of freedom, joy, and self-expression. “I just have so less [sic] f*** to give that it feels like the music just feels free,” she added.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by RITA ORA (@ritaora)

WorldPride 2025: A Milestone Moment

Performing at WorldPride represents a significant milestone in Ora’s career. She recalled her first Pride experience in 2012 in London, describing it as an “incredible eye-opener” that solidified her sense of belonging within the LGBTQ+ community. “It was unbelievable,” Ora said. “It was an incredible eye-opener for me in just where I knew I always belonged.” Since then, she has consistently supported LGBTQ+ causes, participating in numerous Pride events and fundraisers.

Ora’s upcoming performance at WorldPride is particularly special, as she will debut her new single alongside Leland, who also contributed to the track’s writing. “When Leland called me and asked me about doing this and he helped write my single that I’m performing on June the 6th, it was like, ‘Are you actually kidding me? Thank you for asking me. How could I not do this?’” Ora exclaimed. This collaboration underscores her commitment to creating music that resonates with her fans and celebrates the LGBTQ+ community.

The LGBTQ+ Community: A Source of Inspiration and Support

Throughout her career, Ora has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and has expressed deep gratitude for the community’s unwavering support. “The LGBTQ+ community has had my back since the beginning,” she stated. “Everything I do is with them in mind.” She credits the community with providing a sense of safety and acceptance, particularly during challenging times. “There’s been moments of insecurity where I feel like, ‘Oh, that’s okay because I’m not on my own,’” Ora reflected.

Her connection with the LGBTQ+ community is not just professional but deeply personal. “I’m surrounded by the gays, like my best friends, even my publicist that’s right here, right now, everyone I work with,” she shared. “It is like everywhere I live and breathe.” This close-knit support system has been instrumental in shaping her identity and artistic expression.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by RITA ORA (@ritaora)

As Ora prepares for her WorldPride performance, she is also gearing up for her upcomign performance marking a return to live performances that she describes as her “favorite part” of being an artist. “Getting to perform live is my favorite part,” she said. “The tour is the only reason I put music out.” This tour will feature her new music, including the upcoming single, and is expected to further solidify her status as a pop icon committed to celebrating love, freedom, and inclusivity.

Be sure to buy tickets at www.worldpride25.com and don’t miss Rita Ora peforming her new single “Heat.”

May 29, 2025
Demi Lovato, Jennifer Coolidge, Julia Fox and More Make a Splash at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta Grand Opening

Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant LGBTQ+ scene reached a new pinnacle with the grand opening of The Tryst, the world’s first gay luxury hotel brand. Located in the heart of the city’s Zona Romántica, The Tryst is the brainchild of entrepreneur Tristan Schukraft, often dubbed the “CEO of Everything Gay” for his extensive ventures in the LGBTQ+ community.

Tristan Schukraft attends the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. (Photo by Presley Ann/Getty Images for Tryst Hotels)

A Night to Remember

The grand opening on Friday night was nothing short of spectacular. The festivities commenced with a Red Carpet Opening Night Party, hosted by the charismatic Matt Rogers.

Plastique Tiara and her fiance attend the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. (Photo by Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for Tryst Hotels)

Demi Lovato attends the opening night party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. (Photo by Presley Ann/Getty Images for Tryst Hotels)

The event reached a fever pitch when actress Jennifer Coolidge made a surprise appearance, sending the crowd into a frenzy. Adding to the star-studded evening, singer Demi Lovato graced the event, further elevating its glamour. The night culminated with a breathtaking rooftop fireworks display over the Puerto Vallarta sky, embodying the hotel’s ethos of luxury and celebration.

Sam Asghari and Brooke Irvine attend the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. (Photo by Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for Tryst Hotels)

The energy continued as Leland and friends took over the DJ booth, providing a soundtrack as glittery as the guest list.Icons and influencers from across the LGBTQ+ spectrum and beyond turned out, including Antoni Porowski, Wendy Guevara, TS Madison, Kate del Castillo, Julia Fox, Laverne Cox, Chrishell Stause, Sonja Morgan, Zane Phillips, and many more. From drag royalty like Violet Chachki and Plastique Tiara to fashion icons, music legends, and social media stars, the night was a who’s who of queer excellence.

Zane Phillips attends the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. (Photo by Presley Ann/Getty Images for Tryst Hotels)

The Tryst Experience

The Tryst is more than just a hotel; it’s a sanctuary where guests can be their best selves—even on their worst behavior.Designed by the renowned Estudio Esterlina, known for their acclaimed work at Four Seasons Tamarindo, the hotel boasts 55 elegantly designed rooms that blend minimalist elegance with Mexican flair.

Tristan Schukraft and Chris Diamond attend the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. (Photo by Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for Tryst Hotels)

Each room offers a private balcony, ultra-soft bedding, intimate mood lighting, Egyptian cotton towels, Grown Alchemist toiletries, and a mini bar stocked with favorites. The hotel also features a rooftop pool and bar, providing panoramic views of the city and the Pacific Ocean.

Ts Madison attends the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. (Photo by Presley Ann/Getty Images for Tryst Hotels)

Beyond luxurious accommodations, The Tryst offers a vibrant social scene. Weekly events include the “wettest drag brunch in the world,” hosted by Pelayo in the hotel’s Courtyard, featuring a rotating lineup of drag queens, bottomless mimosas, and an international brunch menu . The rooftop pool and 8th-floor cocktail lounge, Ocho, transform into the ultimate party destination, featuring world-famous DJs, signature cocktails, and iconic Tryst gogo dancers.

Colton Haynes attends the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. (Photo by Presley Ann/Getty Images for Tryst Hotels)

Expanding Horizons

The Tryst is part of Schukraft’s broader vision to create a global network of luxury gay boutique hotels. Following the success of the Puerto Vallarta location, Schukraft plans to open additional Tryst hotels in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Fire Island, New York, in 2025. These properties aim to offer upscale, inclusive experiences for guests seeking high-end accommodations with a vibrant, social atmosphere.

VINCINT attends the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. (Photo by Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for Tryst Hotels)

A Commitment to Community

Schukraft’s ventures extend beyond hospitality. He is also the founder of MISTR, a telehealth platform offering discreet, free online access to PrEP and long-term HIV care for the LGBTQ+ community. Additionally, he has acquired iconic LGBTQ+ venues such as The Abbey in West Hollywood, Circo Nightclub in San Juan, and The Blue Whale on Fire Island, aiming to preserve and revitalize these cultural landmarks.

Melvin Alexander, Tristan Schukraft and Demi Lovato attend the opening night party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. (Photo by Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for Tryst Hotels)

Looking Ahead

As The Tryst Puerto Vallarta continues to welcome guests, the celebration doesn’t stop. Upcoming events include a drag brunch and pool party on Saturday, promising more unforgettable experiences. With its blend of luxury, inclusivity, and vibrant social scenes, The Tryst is set to become a cornerstone of Puerto Vallarta’s LGBTQ+ community and a model for gay luxury travel worldwide.

For more information and to make reservations, visit Tryst Hotels.

April 26, 2025
Troye Sivan Celebrates Queer Music Representation at the 2025 Grammys

At the 2025 Grammy Awards, Troye Sivan expressed his pride in the growing visibility of queer artists and their music. In an interview ahead of the ceremony, the Australian singer shared his excitement about the increasing recognition of queer music, emphasizing that, this year more than ever, queer music is being celebrated as just music, period.

“I think this year, more than ever at the Grammys, I feel like you can see that queer music is just music, period,” Sivan said. “And we are so well-represented this year, and it makes me very, very proud and very excited. I’m very excited for everyone who’s nominated.”

This year’s Grammys saw a significant increase in representation for LGBTQ+ artists, with many queer musicians receiving nominations and accolades. Sivan, who has become one of the most prominent openly gay artists in mainstream music, praised the growing acceptance and recognition of queer voices in an industry that has often marginalized them.

Leland Reflects on Queer Representation in Music

Leland, a frequent collaborator with Sivan and a successful producer in his own right, also shared his thoughts on the importance of queer visibility in the music industry. He pointed to the event as an inspiring moment for both established artists and newcomers, especially young queer musicians.

“Tonight, yeah, it’s just a wonderful celebration. I’m excited to be supporting our friends that it feels like we’ve come up with for a long time,” Leland said. “And that really should be an inspiration to younger queer artists and musicians because you are absolutely capable of anything. You just have to persevere.”

Performers such as Chappell Roan, Doechii, Troye Sivan, Billie Eilish, Willow, Clairo, Kaytranada, Kehlani, and Anitta have all received multiple nominations, with Roan and Eilish both up for some of the biggest awards of the night: Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Album of the Year.

The emphasis on queer talent at the Grammys this year marks a significant shift in the industry, as artists from across the LGBTQ+ spectrum continue to break barriers and gain recognition.

The 2025 Grammys promise to be a landmark night for queer artists, as their music and performances take center stage. With nominees like Chappell Roan, Doechii, and Troye Sivan leading the charge, queer representation at the Grammys has never been stronger. As the music industry continues to embrace diversity and inclusivity, the 2025 Grammys will serve as a powerful reminder of how far queer artists have come and the immense talent they bring to the world of music.

February 2, 2025