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Jessye DeSilva — “Proud and Lonely”
The most frustrating thing about gender dysphoria is that it doesn’t need to exist, actually. In many ways, it is a social condition created by a society that only accepts the gender binary. And as tough as the emotions that come up with it are, the increased magnification of transphobia is only making that feeling of misalignment with one’s body worse. Jessye DeSilva has had enough, and they make that clear on “Dysphoria.” With Jake Blount and Marshall Biever rounding out their strident lyrics, Jessye comes out swinging on this new song.
Joel Brogon — “Underneath the Trees”
Texas singer Joel Brogon‘s new song “Underneath the Trees” hits where it hurts. Brogon’s songwriting is direct and his production is minimal, which only drives his storytelling home. “Underneath the Trees” captures the sweet romance of young love and discovery — and the tragedy that seemed almost inevitable from the start when one has to keep their love hidden.
Melody Walker & Mercy Bell — “Jesus Was a Drag Queen”
When two of the best songwriters in Nashville team up, you better brace yourself. Melody Walker and Mercy Bell penned this song right after Tennessee passed its (now unconstitutional!) drag ban. The lyrics are designed to trigger any far-right snowflake, but they’re delivered with a tender smile. Walker and Bell guide us through this country crooner with aplomb, knowing that they’re ont he right side of history.
Derek Webb — “Boys Will Be Girls” (ft. Flamy Grant)
Wikipedia tells me that Derek Webb is a renowned Christian music singer-songwriter, most famous for his band Caedmon’s Call. But here on “Boys Will Be Girls,” he teams up with Flamy Grant, a drag queen whose own brilliant music focuses on her time in the church. “Boys Will Be Girls” is a meditative pop odyssey that calls out the hypocrisy of a faith that avows love and acceptance.
Adeem the Artist — “I C U”
I can’t help but feeling a little bit mad at Adeem the Artist when they sucker punch me with a song like this. Adeem is known for their uproarious shows, so when they slow things down and dig even deeper, it matters. On “I C U,” Adeem the Artist delivers the healing message we all need to hear. The question is, will the people who really need it even listen?
Listen to this playlist on Spotify!
Thanks to Elliott for making a parallel list on Apple Music!
Listen to the parallel list on Tidal.
Missed a week? Thomas Inskeep is generously keeping an archive of all music featured on this Spotify playlist.