PREMIERE: Pearl Does Country Supports His Trans Siblings on "Y'all Means All"
PREMIERE: Pearl Does Country stands in support of his trans siblings on his latest song -- the bouncy and hopeful "Y'all Means All."
Pearl Does Country doesn't shy away from the tough fights. Growing up queer in Cornwall – not to mention making country music in the UK – isn't the daunting uphill climb some musicians would see. Instead, as he explains below, Pearl knows his music is meant for spreading love and hope – just as "Y'all Means All," out tomorrow, is a song in support of the trans community. Proceeds from his "Y'all Means All" merch (pictured above) will go to Mermaids, a UK organization that supports trans people. (And boy do they need all the help they can get right now.) Read below to learn more about Pearl's commitment to queer country, and an exclusive premiere of "Y'all Means All." You can pre-save the song here.
What did you want to say with "Y'all Means All"?
"Y'all Means All" is about inclusivity. It is a bold statement that country music – and the world – should be a safe, welcoming space for everyone, no matter their gender identity, sexuality, or background. I wrote this song specifically as a love letter to my trans siblings.
How do you feel your queer identity ties into your performance style or music?
I write about what I'm passionate about and what matters to me, and my queer identity is a huge part of that. It naturally weaves into my music and performance style because I want to be honest and celebrate who I am and the community I am a part of. I hope that by being true to myself, it resonates with people – especially those who might not often see themselves represented in country music.
How have you healed or grown your relationship to country music?
There's often a disconnect between country music and the LFBTQ+ community – some people in the queer community feel excluded from the genre, and some within country music held outdated views on queerness. But I've have always loved country; I'm hoping that being part of both words, I can help bridge that gap.
My debut single "Just Like Me" shares my story of growing up in the Cornish countryside and coming out as a gay boy, and my second single "Boots On My Floor" explores the more mature side of queer life. Through honest storytelling and classic country sounds, I'm working to show that there's space in country for all of us.
How are you using your platform to support marginalized people?
Even as a brand-new independent artist, I'm committed to using my platform for good. My upcoming single "Y'all Means All" is all about inclusion, and to support that message, I have released Y'all Means All merchandise – 50% of profits made until July 28th will be donated to Mermaids UK, a charity that supports transgender youth and their families.
I believe music can be a tool for change, and I'll always look for ways to uplift and support marginalised voices through what I do. Merchandise can be purchased via my shop.
Is there a professional “bucket list” item you would love to check off?
One of my biggest bucket list goals is to go on tour and share my music with a wider audience. There's something really special about connecting with people in person – especially when a song you've written has resonated with them. I'd love to experience that energy, that exchange of love, from the other side of the stage. I know how much it means to me as an audience member when an artist sees me and celebrates me, and I hope to give that same feeling to others through my performances.
Pre-save "Y'all Means All" here.
