Gayety

Category: Music

At Gayety, we celebrate the rich tapestry of LGBTQ+ music by spotlighting both iconic and emerging queer artists. Our coverage includes in-depth profiles of openly gay musicians, festivals, performances, and more.

  • Agnes Turns Confidence Into Currency With Bold New Track ‘MILK’

    Agnes Turns Confidence Into Currency With Bold New Track ‘MILK’

    Swedish pop powerhouse Agnes is back, and she’s churning out more than just music. With the release of her latest single “MILK,” the disco diva blends glam, grit, and glitter into a chant that’s equal parts camp and confidence. The result? A genre-bending anthem about turning life’s raw ingredients into your own personal masterpiece.

    From Car Ride to Confidence Chant

    It all started with a drive. Agnes found herself behind the wheel when inspiration struck in the form of a spontaneous mantra:

    “I turn milk into butter and butter into money, and with the money honey I create the life that I like.”

    The phrase became the beating heart of “MILK,” a track that started off punk and eventually morphed into something more dancefloor-ready. “My inspiration for the song was one of The Hives’ old songs,” Agnes explained. “I was playing with the idea, what if I was their sister? What would the song sound like then?”

    The answer? A glittering disco banger with attitude, soul, and just a dash of rebellion. “At first the song had a much more punky feeling,” she said, “but it didn’t feel quite right. So we made it more disco in the production and then, there it was.”

    A Soundtrack for Self-Expression

    Agnes describes “MILK” as a declaration of individuality. It’s a love letter to your quirks, a high-five to your weirdness, and a reminder that confidence is your greatest currency.

    “It’s about having the confidence in knowing who you are and what you want. Speaking your own truth,” she said. “Use that, be that, and create a life that supports that.”

    That message comes wrapped in a retro-pop shimmer, but the heart of the song is all about authenticity and empowerment, a message that resonates deeply with her LGBTQ+ fans.

    @agnesofficial1

    PRE-SAVE FOR LIVING THE MILKY WAY

    ♬ MILK – Agnes

    A Thank You to the Queer Community

    Agnes is no stranger to queer adoration. Her music has long served as a sanctuary for LGBTQ+ listeners, and she doesn’t take that connection lightly.

    “You make me wanna push myself creatively,” she said. “When it comes to my music and creating this world… I really do feel the love and the support, and it means the world to me.”

    Her gratitude extends beyond the studio. With live shows on the horizon, Agnes says she’s ready to celebrate and dance with her fans in person: “You don’t understand how much I’m looking forward to playing live, meeting you, celebrating, singing and dancing together.”

    The Dream Team Behind “MILK”

    Agnes teamed up with some of Sweden’s best-known hitmakers for “MILK,” including Vincent Pontare (Madonna, Avicii), Hannah Wilson (Tove Lo, The Chainsmokers), Kerstin Ljungström, and Frans Bryngel (The Weeknd, Salvatore Ganacci). The result is a track that’s slick, spunky, and sonically rich—just like Agnes herself.

    From “Release Me” to Reinvention

    Agnes rose to global fame at just 16, and over two decades later, she continues to evolve. Her 2021 album Magic Still Exists earned four Swedish Grammy nominations, including a win for Composer of the Year. The album drew praise from The Guardian, Billboard, Pitchfork, and NME, cementing her place as a chameleonic artist who refuses to be boxed in.

    With “MILK,” Agnes shows no signs of slowing down. It’s playful, it’s punkish, it’s disco-fabulous, and most of all, it’s unmistakably her.

  • Jamie Hannah Is Going Viral for Turning Pop Hits Into Italian Arias And It’s Stunning

    Jamie Hannah Is Going Viral for Turning Pop Hits Into Italian Arias And It’s Stunning

    British singer-songwriter and vocal powerhouse Jamie Hannah is reintroducing himself to the world, this time through soaring Italian arias. The classically trained countertenor has found viral success by fusing opera with pop, transforming hits like “Can’t Help Falling in Love” and “Like a Prayer” into emotional, cinematic experiences. His Italian Aria series has captivated millions across social media, bringing in over 10 million views and more than 200,000 new followers in just eight months.

    The Viral Aria Moment

    The magic started with a reinterpretation of Miley Cyrus’ “Wrecking Ball”—sung in Italian, no less—which racked up a million TikTok views in just 48 hours. Hannah followed it up with Whitney Houston’s iconic “I Will Always Love You” (originally penned by Dolly Parton), reimagined as a wedding gift for a friend. The response? Another 1.5 million views.

    @justjamiehannah

    I hope the Queen of Pop would like it @madonna #italian #classicalmusic #pop #madonna #likeaprayer

    ♬ original sound – Jamie Hannah

    But it was his lush renditions of “Can’t Help Falling in Love” (2.7M views on Instagram, 1.6M on TikTok), “Like a Prayer” (2M IG, 800K TikTok), and “Hallelujah” (1.8M IG, 1.2M TikTok) that really cemented his place as the internet’s newest operatic obsession.

    Five Octaves and a Lot of Feelings

    Hannah’s five-octave range isn’t just impressive, it’s deeply moving. His comment sections are filled with messages from fans expressing how his voice has brought them peace during illness, comforted them through depression, or simply made them cry for the first time in years.

    “Your voice evokes feeling in me, joy, awe, tears,” one fan wrote. “It breathes life into my heart.”

    For Hannah, this emotional connection is what matters most. “I hoped to show myself as a versatile vocalist,” he says. “I still write and release my own music, but this project let me lean into something really personal.”

    @justjamiehannah

    I wonder what @Miley Cyrus would think? #wreckingball #mileycyrus #classical #orchestra

    ♬ original sound – Jamie Hannah

    An Opera Pop Star in the Making

    Originally trained at the Royal College of Music, Hannah sings fluently in Italian, French, Russian, and German. He’s performed everywhere from the Royal Albert Hall to opera houses in Shanghai. He even brought music to nursing homes during lockdown, performing in car parks for residents.

    Now based in California, the singer continues to write, arrange, and produce his own work while collaborating with other creatives. In April 2025, he performed selections from his viral series, including “Vide Cor Meum” from Hannibal, with the Czech National Symphony Orchestra at the Prague Composer Summit.

    His inspirations range from Handel to Freddie Mercury to Adele, and his music reflects that mash-up of grandeur and heartache, theatricality and tenderness.

    What’s Next? A Full Album, of Course

    Due to overwhelming demand, Hannah has confirmed a full-length album is in the works, set for release in Spring 2026. While he hasn’t revealed the full tracklist yet, fans can expect more sweeping, operatic takes on beloved pop songs, all infused with Hannah’s signature touch.

    “I’ve always dreamt of lending my voice to a movie soundtrack,” he says. “One day, I hope the stars align.”

    Until then, we’ll be happily crying in Italian to whatever Jamie Hannah posts next.

  • FINNEAS and Ashe Channel ’70s Nostalgia in New Track ‘The Hudson’

    FINNEAS and Ashe Channel ’70s Nostalgia in New Track ‘The Hudson’

    The Favors are keeping the dream alive. Today, the duo made up of longtime collaborators FINNEAS and Ashe unveiled their second single “The Hudson,” a cinematic follow-up to their debut track “The Little Mess You Made.” Both tracks will appear on The Dream, the duo’s first full-length album together, out September 19 via Darkroom Records.

    A Love Letter to New York—and Heartbreak

    Set to soft piano and layered harmonies, “The Hudson” captures the warm ache of a love slipping away. Ashe opens the song with poetic vulnerability: “The trees were bare and naked, and so were we—two old strangers sharing really personal things.” The lyrics evoke fleeting intimacy, while FINNEAS joins on the chorus: “All I’ve ever known is gone. I’ve got nothing but you to lose.”

    The track swells with retro-tinged percussion, emotional guitar riffs, and harmonies that feel lifted from a lost Laurel Canyon demo tape. It’s a timeless sound that reflects their self-described “era-agnostic” approach to music.

    The Favors press photo featuring FINNEAS and Ashe

    In a statement, FINNEAS explains the song’s structure as almost theatrical: “Part of the band identity involves these characters who are singing about an experience to each other. It’s a musical theater design, and it rarely happens in pop. You can picture two individuals in an apartment overlooking The Hudson singing about the same thing.”

    A Visual Story in Black and White

    Directed by Alex Lockett, the official music video leans into the song’s emotional tension and vintage aesthetic. It’s a moody, filmic visual full of grainy textures, black-and-white vignettes, and soft-focus color shots of Ashe and FINNEAS by the water.

    From “Moral of the Story” to The Dream

    Fans of Ashe and FINNEAS will remember their breakout hit “Moral of the Story” in 2019, and 2021’s fan-favorite duet “Till Forever Falls Apart.” Now, they’ve fully embraced their shared artistic vision as The Favors.

    Their upcoming album, The Dream, was co-written and recorded between Nashville (Ashe’s home) and Los Angeles (where FINNEAS lives). The project pays homage to the Laurel Canyon sound with nods to Carole King, Simon & Garfunkel, and Fleetwood Mac, all through a 2025 lens.

    “This is the way every artist dreams of making an album,” Ashe shares. “People don’t sing together anymore when they’re recording, but it was so romantic and fun.”

    “It’s a true ‘long-play album’ in its real intended meaning,” FINNEAS adds. “Hopefully, you can have friends over, cook a meal, and play this on vinyl front-to-back.”

    Ashe sums it up perfectly: “I want you to feel simultaneously warm, fuzzy, and heartbroken at the same time.”

  • Kim Petras Teases New Banger ‘Freak It’ at Balenciaga’s Wild Couture After-Party

    Kim Petras Teases New Banger ‘Freak It’ at Balenciaga’s Wild Couture After-Party

    Pop princess Kim Petras is officially in her “main character at the rave” era. The Grammy winner caused a frenzy online after debuting a snippet of her unreleased song “Freak It” at the Balenciaga Couture after-party in Paris, and the internet is already begging for the full version.

    Hosted in the intimate salon on Avenue George V, the celebration marked a symbolic final bow for designer Demna’s tenure at Balenciaga. Naturally, the guest list was stacked: Naomi Campbell and Margo XS hit the decks, and The Cobrasnake was on hand to document the haze of fashion, sweat, and cigarette smoke. But it was Kim who stole the spotlight, not with a runway walk, but with a surprise banger that had the crowd, and fans online, going feral.

    Pop icon Kim Petras surprised fans with a snippet of her unreleased single “Freak It” at Balenciaga’s after-party, hinting at a bold new era of club-ready anthems.
    Photo: The Cobrasnake/Nylon Magazine

    Welcome to the Freak Show

    While spinning tracks and working the mic, Kim dropped an exclusive preview of “Freak It,” a sultry, bass-heavy cut that hints at a return to the unapologetic, body-moving sound that helped make her a queer icon. The snippet doesn’t give away much lyrically, but the thumping beat, distorted synths, and provocative energy had the party crowd visibly shook, and phones flying up to capture the moment.

    In true Petras fashion, it was sexy, chaotic, and totally euphoric. The kind of song you hear once and already picture on the setlist of a sweaty Pride performance or blasting from a Fire Island cabana.

    Fans React: “We Need It Yesterday”

    After clips of “Freak It” began circulating on social media, fans wasted no time sounding off:

    “I need it! Song of the summer!!” one user tweeted.
    “Release Freak It before I lose my mind,” wrote another, alongside a clip from the party.
    “Between ‘Polo’ and this? She’s cooking!!” commented a fan on TikTok.

    Many noted that the new snippet, combined with her just-released single “Polo,” signals a bold new chapter for Petras, one defined by cheeky club bangers, glitchy pop production, and full-throttle queer energy.

    The “Polo” Era Is Just Getting Started

    “Polo,” Petras’ most recent single, dropped ahead of her latest Pride performances and served as a sonic reset for the artist. “It makes me feel cute and like a bitch!” she said, explaining the track’s playful but confident energy. Created alongside collaborators Margo XS, Nightfeelings, and atlgrandma, the song is layered with distorted synths and a flirty hook that begs to be danced to.

    If this Balenciaga after-party moment was any indication, the new era of Kim Petras is hot, unfiltered, and built for the club. We’re more than ready to freak out.

  • Conan Gray’s ‘Vodka Cranberry’ Is a Queer Heartbreak Anthem Wrapped in Cinematic Romance

    Conan Gray’s ‘Vodka Cranberry’ Is a Queer Heartbreak Anthem Wrapped in Cinematic Romance

    Conan Gray is serving heartbreak with a splash of queer longing in his brand-new single, “Vodka Cranberry.”

    Released today via Republic Records and Universal Music Canada, the track marks the second single from his upcoming album Wishbone, out August 15. Teaming up once again with acclaimed producer Dan Nigro, Gray crafts a delicate and devastating portrait of love lost, with vocals that drip with sorrow and songwriting sharp enough to cut glass.

    “Vodka Cranberry” isn’t just a song, it’s a slow burn of emotion that builds until it bursts, capturing the ache of a breakup that refuses to fully break.

    A Love Story Told in Film Grain

    The song’s emotional weight is amplified by a cinematic music video that continues the story introduced in “This Song.” Directed by Danica Kleinknecht (Mk.gee) and shot on Kodak 35mm film in Gray’s home state of Texas, the video co-stars Girl Meets World actor Corey Fogelmanis in a quietly powerful queer romance.

    Gray plays one-half of a couple, Wilson and Brandon, embarking on a road trip across the American Southwest. From gas station snack runs to playful lake swims and intimate tent cuddles, the video paints a dreamy, Brokeback Mountain-esque picture of two boys in love beneath endless skies.

    But as the trip unfolds, the tension simmers. In a dimly lit dive bar, Conan’s character reaches for his partner’s hand, only to be met with silence and retreat. The music swells as we watch a montage of their happiest moments together, including a tender kiss in the lake. Then, in a gut-punch of a twist, the video flashes forward. As Gray’s character sleeps, his lover quietly slips away, eyes full of regret and tears. The keys jingle, the door opens, and just like that, he’s gone.

    Fans Are Feeling It…Hard

    Conan’s fans wasted no time flooding social media with emotional reactions.

    “album of the year already…” one user posted on X.

    Another wrote, “this mv completely destroyed me. i love you conan gray.”

    Many praised the video’s authenticity, emotional resonance, and commitment to telling queer stories with tenderness and truth. And yes, a few admitted they’ve already added “Vodka Cranberry” to their “cry in the shower” playlists.

    Wishbone on the Horizon

    With Wishbone on the way this August, Gray seems to be leaning even further into cinematic storytelling, emotional vulnerability, and lush queer imagery. If “Vodka Cranberry” is any indication, the full album is shaping up to be both a sonic and visual heartbreaker—in the best way possible.

  • Demi Lovato Drops Surprise TikTok Teaser and Fans Are Losing It

    Demi Lovato Drops Surprise TikTok Teaser and Fans Are Losing It

    Demi Lovato just hit post on a TikTok that’s setting the internet ablaze. On July 10, the singer and actress shared a cryptic music teaser with a haunting new sound, and her fans are not okay. The teaser marks a thrilling kickoff to what appears to be her next music era, and the response has been nothing short of explosive.

    @ddlovato

    it feels so right

    ♬ original sound – Demi Lovato

    A Mysterious TikTok With a Lot to Say

    The 15-second teaser, posted to Lovato’s TikTok, features moody visuals and a cinematic new track that no one had heard before. Set against the backdrop of her bold new black-dress photoshoot (also now her only Instagram post), the snippet sent fans into detective mode. The clip is emotionally charged, with layered synths, an aching vocal line, and a sense of mystery that screams: something big is coming.

    Lovato, 32, captioned the teaser: “i’m not so sure, i’ve ever felt like this before”—echoing the same line from her recent Instagram post. The cryptic repetition, along with the sudden purge of her entire feed, suggests a carefully crafted rollout for a new project.

     
     
     
     
     
    View this post on Instagram
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

    A post shared by Demi Lovato (@ddlovato)

    Fans Are Spiraling (And Rightfully So)

    Within minutes of the teaser drop, fans flooded TikTok and X with emotional reactions. Comments like “ITS HAPPENING EVERYBODY STAY CALM” and “SHE’S COMING BACK Y’ALL” filled the thread.

    Photo: TikTok (@ddlovato)

    Some pointed out similarities to past pop girl rebrands, while others speculated this could be a pivot to a darker, more vulnerable sound.

    The Clues Keep Piling Up

    The TikTok teaser wasn’t the only surprise. Lovato also changed her Spotify profile photo and wiped her social media clean. Her official website is currently down, and she’s removed all external links from her Linktree.

    Adding fuel to the fire, she resurfaced a tweet from June 2016 that read: “F–k this.. I’m back b—–s. And I’m coming back more honest than ever.” Paired with the emotional tone of the teaser, fans suspect her new material could dive deeper into personal storytelling than ever before.

    A New Era in the Making

    Lovato’s last album of original material was 2022’s HOLY FVCK, followed by REVAMPED, where she reimagined past hits with a gritty rock edge. But this latest tease feels like a new genre altogether, perhaps something cinematic, confessional, and rooted in healing.

    The TikTok teaser may have been short, but it’s loud and clear: Demi Lovato is about to enter a whole new phase of artistry.

    And if this is just the beginning, fans better buckle up.

     

  • Reneé Rapp Dishes Out Some Bold Advice for Dealing With Homophobic Parents

    Reneé Rapp Dishes Out Some Bold Advice for Dealing With Homophobic Parents

    Mean Girls star Reneé Rapp is doubling down on her reputation as a queer icon – and this time with suggestions that are equal parts hilarious and devilishly subversive.

    The Broadway alum and Saturday Night Live musical guest famously came out as a lesbian during her 2024 SNL appearance, after initially identifying as bisexual publicly.

    On Wednesday (July 9), a TikTok fan account reshared a clip from one of Rapp’s recent livestream Q&As. In it, she responds to a viewer’s question – believed to be, “How do I convince my homophobic mom to come to your show?”

    Her reply? Pure queer gold: “I don’t know if I want her there, I’ve got to be honest. I feel like you should just run.”

    Rapp pauses for effect, then continues: “But if you’re trying to open up the doors and you want it to be ‘it’s us altogether’ and not ‘us versus them’, that I respect, and you absolutely can bring her.”

    Then she ascends to peak comedic drama: “I’m not sure she’ll like it, I’m not sure she’ll leave being a changed woman, but you could try sedating her and maybe dragging her against her will, perhaps.”

    @reneeismotherr

    I’ll try sedating and knocking them out cold and let you all know how it goes #reneerapp #wlw #livestream #live

    ♬ original sound – reneeismotherr

    As if giving the performance of the century, she adds: “Knocking her out cold, and then she wakes up in the middle of GA (general admission) at one of my shows, and she’s surrounded by a bunch of gay people, that might help.”

    From Bisexual to Lesbian – and Beyond

    Rapp’s path to living openly began when she first publicly identified as bisexual. But as her music career and public profile evolved—sparked in part by her dazzling performance and candid coming-out moment on SNL – she found joy in finally labeling herself exactly as she felt.

    That clarity wasn’t always easy. Rapp has spoken openly about wading through internalized homophobia and the family expectations that can weigh heavily on queer kids. Now, she’s spinning those experiences into community-building humor – and, in some cases, mildly outrageous hypotheticals involving narcoleptic parental units.

    Queer Counsel with a Side of Sass

    Rapp’s guidance may not make for a typical conflict-avoidance strategy.

    And besides, she’s right: Sometimes immersion is the best teacher. She quipped, “Surrounded by a bunch of gay people… that might help.”

    The Cost of Queer Joy and The Power of Laughter

    Rapp’s Q&A response carries a subtext deeply rooted in queer survival: humor can be radical. When the stakes include parental disapproval or rejection, comedy cuts tension – but also sets boundaries. Her satirical suggestion essentially says: If you want to bring her, go ahead—but only if you’re ready for the full queer experience.

  • Frankie Grande Announces Hotel Rock Bottom (Deluxe) Featuring Ariana Grande, Salina Estitties, and Big Freedia

    Frankie Grande Announces Hotel Rock Bottom (Deluxe) Featuring Ariana Grande, Salina Estitties, and Big Freedia

    Broadway actor and LGBTQ+ advocate Frankie Grande announced a lineup of artists of his debut album, Hotel Rock Bottom (Deluxe). The expanded edition features fresh tracks and punchy collaborations—most notably a heartfelt remix with sister, global superstar Ariana Grande. “Hotel Rock Bottom (Deluxe) will be out TONIGHT at midnight ET! So honored to be joined by @bigfreedia, @estitties, @officialdetoxmusic, @felixjaehn, and my sister @arianagrande 💫” Frankie posted on Instagram.

    The accompanying lyric video for the Ariana remix will debut on YouTube in tandem with the album release. Grande expressed raw emotion and gratitude in the post, crediting his supporters: “I’m BEYOND emotional, and I’m so grateful to everyone who helped me along this journey…and allowed me to spread the love and light that has guided me through this beautiful life in sobriety.”

    A Pride-Centric Release

    Hotel Rock Bottom (Deluxe) arrives in the aftermath of Pride Month and continues Frankie’s mission to weave queer identity, personal healing, and creative expression. The original album debuted during Pride and marked the culmination of his eight-year journey to sobriety.

    Reflecting on that personal transformation, Frankie told ITV News, “Had I tried to release an album while I was drinking and using, I probably would have never released it… I waited until my instrument was clean and pure, and I could tell the stories that I wanted to tell.”

    Now, with high-profile collaborators and deeply vulnerable lyrics, Grande has positioned the deluxe edition as both a celebration and an outpouring of authenticity.

    A Star-Studded Lineup

    Frankie collaborated with trailblazing musicians and LGBTQ+ icons on the deluxe album:

    • Ariana Grande, Oscar-nominated singer and world-renowned pop sensation

    • Big Freedia, Bounce legend and queer culture luminary

    • Salina Estitties, rising queer rapper who blends resilience and rhythm

    • Detox, celebrated drag star and activist

    • Felix Jaehn, EDM producer with international acclaim

    By blending vocal, rap, drag, and dance music styles, Grande bridges performance traditions and uplift collective queer voices.

    “It’s So Personal” — A Sibling Bond

    Frankie has called the remix with Ariana the emotional anchor of the deluxe album. “This song is so personal to me, and having her on it makes it even more meaningful,” he told fans. “Can’t wait for you to hear it!!”

    Their professional partnership stems from deep personal support: Ariana encouraged Frankie throughout his songwriting process, urging him to trust his instincts. “She’s been unbelievable throughout this process… I learned from her to trust your gut,” he explained, crediting his sister with key creative guidance.

    Ariana, busy preparing for her upcoming film adaptation of Wicked, also shares her brother’s enthusiasm. Their collaboration marks yet another high-profile moment in a series of sibling duets, including Ariana’s feature on Frankie’s earlier track Better Not Ride.

    From Broadway to Best-Seller

    Frankie Grande is no stranger to the spotlight. A Rock of Ages and Mamma Mia! veteran, he later expanded his platform via Big Brother and Big Brother: Reindeer Games. With 2.5 million Instagram followers and 1.5 million TikTok fans, Grande has translated high visibility into authentic storytelling.

    But Hotel Rock Bottom is his first long-form musical project—an eight-track album anchored by songs like Boys and Rhythm of Love. He debuted tracks live at London Pride, acknowledging the UK’s rich queer cultural scene. “It’s a beautiful place with so many people of different backgrounds,” he said. “The LGBTQ+ community has always been so accepted here, especially in music. I do think you have broken many queer artists here before the United States.”

    Sobriety as Creative Foundation

    Grande’s openness about sobriety is part of the album’s emotional resonance. His decision to wait until his instrument—his voice and soul—was healed allows the songs to feel honest and powerful. “I waited until my instrument was clean and pure,” Frankie told ITV News.

    “I could tell the stories that I wanted to tell.”

    Maintaining sobriety as a queer performer in the public eye can be isolating, but Frankie credits his community, music, and husband with keeping him grounded.

    Home, Family, and Queer Joy

    Frankie’s domestic life also reflects a narrative of queer joy. He married actor-influencer Hale Leon in May 2022 in a Star Wars-themed ceremony officiated by their mother, Joan Grande. The couple’s wedding—filled with cultural and personal symbolism—was a testament to their chosen family. “I’m married to the man of my dreams… our families have merged together so beautifully,” Frankie wrote in an Instagram post after the ceremony.

    In an era when LGBTQ+ celebrations can be surrounded by grief and loss, Frankie’s marriage stands as an enthusiastic embodiment of queer love and community.

    Next Steps: Live Shows and Visual Storytelling

    Following the deluxe album drop, Grande plans to release a series of behind-the-scenes videos, studio vlogs, and acoustic renditions of the deluxe remixes. A supporting tour is rumored—and eagerly anticipated by fans who have seen his rise from Broadway vocalist to queer pop pioneer.

    He’s also coordinating visual content for each collaborator’s track. That includes music videos, lyric creatives, and short behind-the-scenes documentaries spotlighting queer artistic processes.

    Cultural Impact and Legacy

    The release of Hotel Rock Bottom (Deluxe) comes at a critical moment in mainstream queer representation. As drag bans and anti-LGBTQ+ legislation proliferate worldwide, Frankie’s collaborative album is a reaffirmation of visibility and resilience.

    By partnering with those like Big Freedia and Detox—queer icons known for outraged joy and political expression—Grande turns the album into an act of cultural defiance as much as celebration.

    Midnight ET: A Celebration Begins

    As the clock strikes midnight ET, Hotel Rock Bottom (Deluxe) will land on all major streaming platforms. Listeners can expect a 12-track feast of emotional stories, collaborative energy, and Pride-affirming beats.

    Grande’s invitation is open and clear. “Check in to the deluxe suite at the link in my bio 🛎️” he teased—signing off with queer exuberance and personal truth at the heart of his artistry.

  • Katseye Announces First-Ever ‘Beautiful Chaos’ Tour Across North America

    Katseye Announces First-Ever ‘Beautiful Chaos’ Tour Across North America

    Katseye, the breakout global girl group turning heads and topping charts, has officially announced their first-ever North American tour, sending fans into full celebration mode. Aptly titled the “Beautiful Chaos Tour,” the 12-city trek will kick off on November 15 in Minneapolis and wrap up with a grand finale in Mexico City on December 16.

    The tour is named after the group’s latest EP, Beautiful Chaos, which debuted at No. 4 on the Billboard 200, a rare feat for a rookie group in today’s competitive pop landscape. It’s an impressive milestone that solidifies Katseye’s growing global impact—musically and culturally.

    From Reality Show to Mainstream Powerhouse

    Katseye, made up of Daniela, Lara, Manon, Megan, Sophia, and Yoonchae, was formed through the HYBE x Geffen Records reality competition series The Debut: Dream Academy, which aired globally in 2023. Since then, the group has cultivated a massive fanbase with their high-energy performances, diverse cultural makeup, and empowering lyrics.

    While other girl groups have made splashes with viral hits, Katseye is building something deeper—a world of artistry that embraces chaos, beauty, and self-discovery. “‘Beautiful Chaos’ is the season we’re all in,” group member Sophia said in an interview with Variety. “It’s very much us, but it’s also us constantly evolving and finding ourselves. It’s a big transitional part of Katseye—discovering who we are and the different sides of us.”

    It’s that emotional honesty, mixed with next-level stage presence and fashion-forward visuals, that has earned Katseye a rapidly growing LGBTQ+ following. Their songs touch on themes of identity, freedom, transformation—and chaos, of course—all deeply resonant with queer audiences around the world.

    Tour Dates & Ticket Info

    The “Beautiful Chaos Tour” includes major cities in both the U.S. and Canada, as well as a highly anticipated stop in Mexico. From The Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York to YouTube Theater in Inglewood, fans will have a chance to witness the group’s dynamic performances in venues that match their meteoric rise.

    Here is the full list of tour dates:

    • Nov. 15 – Minneapolis, MN – The Armory

    • Nov. 18 – Toronto, ON – The Theatre at Great Canadian Toronto

    • Nov. 19 – Boston, MA – MGM Music Hall at Fenway

    • Nov. 22 – New York, NY – The Theater at Madison Square Garden

    • Nov. 24 – Washington, DC – The Anthem

    • Nov. 26 – Atlanta, GA – Coca-Cola Roxy

    • Nov. 29 – Sugar Land, TX – Smart Financial Centre

    • Nov. 30 – Irving, TX – The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory

    • Dec. 3 – Phoenix, AZ – Arizona Financial Theatre

    • Dec. 6 – San Francisco, CA – The Theater at Bill Graham Civic Auditorium

    • Dec. 9 – Seattle, WA – WAMU Theater

    • Dec. 12 – Inglewood, CA – YouTube Theater

    • Dec. 16 – Mexico City, MX – Teatro Metropólitan

    Tickets for the general public go on sale Thursday, July 11 at 10 a.m. local time. However, superfans will want to act early:

    • Weverse artist pre-sale opens Tuesday, July 9, exclusively for paid Weverse subscribers.

    • The Katseye.World artist pre-sale follows on Wednesday, July 10.

    • VIP packages will also be available, offering fans early access, exclusive merch, and premium viewing.

    Why This Tour Matters

    Katseye’s Beautiful Chaos EP is more than just a collection of bops—it’s a statement of purpose. With songs that explore confidence, heartbreak, liberation, and finding one’s place in a messy world, the EP has struck a nerve with a generation of fans who are navigating their own chaos with courage.

    As a group formed from six different cultural backgrounds and languages, Katseye represents the future of pop: inclusive, genre-blending, and unapologetically global. Their sound weaves together elements of K-pop, R&B, EDM, and experimental pop, while their lyrics often touch on self-empowerment and inner strength.

    For LGBTQ+ fans especially, the group’s bold aesthetics and emphasis on self-expression are deeply affirming.

    What to Expect from the Tour

    If Katseye’s past live performances are anything to go by, the “Beautiful Chaos Tour” promises an electrifying blend of choreography, storytelling, and visuals. Each member brings something unique to the table—Daniela’s soaring vocals, Lara’s fierce presence, Manon’s elegance, Megan’s sharp moves, Sophia’s emotional delivery, and Yoonchae’s magnetic charm.

    Expect dramatic lighting, stylized wardrobe changes, and performances that feel more like high-fashion theater than standard pop fare. The tour is expected to include the entirety of Beautiful Chaos as well as unreleased surprises and a few revamped fan-favorite tracks from their debut singles.

    Katseye’s LGBTQ+ Legacy in the Making

    As the music industry continues to evolve, Katseye stands out not just for their talent, but for their authenticity. Their connection with queer fans has been organic—built not on marketing strategy, but on shared emotion, freedom of expression, and mutual respect.

  • Frankie Grande Announces Remix of ‘Hotel Rock Bottom’ Featuring Ariana Grande

    Frankie Grande Announces Remix of ‘Hotel Rock Bottom’ Featuring Ariana Grande

    Frankie Grande is celebrating Pride – and his personal evolution – with a major family collaboration. The multi-talented performer just announced that the remix of his emotional track “Hotel Rock Bottom” will feature none other than his sister, pop icon and Oscar nominee Ariana Grande.

    Taking to Instagram, Frankie shared the exciting news: “The Hotel Rock Bottom remix featuring my sister Ariana Grande will be out on Friday on my deluxe 🥹💗

    This song is so personal to me, and having her on it makes it even more meaningful. Can’t wait for you to hear it!!”

    The track will be featured on the deluxe edition of his debut album Hotel Rock Bottom, released in honor of Pride month. The album is deeply inspired by Frankie’s journey to sobriety—he marked eight years sober this year. “Had I tried to release an album while I was drinking and using, I probably would have never released it,” he told ITV News. “I’m grateful that I took my time and waited until my instrument was clean and pure, and I could tell the stories that I wanted to tell.”

    The 42-year-old Broadway alum and social media personality – who has more than 2.5 million followers across Instagram and TikTok – is known for his roles in Rock of Ages, Mamma Mia!, and his reality TV stints on Big Brother and Big Brother: Reindeer Games. But Hotel Rock Bottom marks a new chapter for Frankie, one driven by creative authenticity and queer pride.

    He recently celebrated the album’s release at London Pride, sharing how much the city and its LGBTQ+ community have meant to him: “It’s a beautiful place with so many people of different backgrounds,” he said. “The LGBTQ+ community has always been so accepted here, especially in music. I do think you have broken many queer artists here before the United States.”

    Frankie also spoke candidly about the role his family has played in supporting both his sobriety and his identity: “I’m so blessed that I have such an amazingly accepting family who has allowed me to be my authentic self and supported me through some of the difficulties of being a public figure who is out, loud, and proud!”

    When asked what advice Ariana gave him while working on the album, Frankie said she encouraged him to trust his instincts. “She’s been unbelievable throughout this process… I learned from her to trust your gut, and it will lead you on the path that you are supposed to go down.”

    Ariana, who is currently starring in the film adaptation of Wicked, has long shared a close bond with Frankie. Their collaboration on “Hotel Rock Bottom” is expected to blend their shared passion for storytelling with a powerful, heartfelt sound.

    Frankie’s husband of three years, actor and influencer Hale Leon, has also been a steadfast source of support throughout the creative journey. The couple was married in a Star Wars-themed ceremony in 2022, officiated by Frankie’s mom, Joan Grande. “I’m married to the man of my dreams,” Frankie wrote on Instagram after the wedding. “Our families have merged together so beautifully, and we are well on our way to happily ever after.”

    Hotel Rock Bottom (Deluxe) drops this Friday, with the Ariana Grande remix as its centerpiece. The original album and singles like “Boys” and “Rhythm of Love” are streaming now.