PODCAST

Gay Music: In the Key of Q

Dan Hall

Music-loving gay podcast. The best bi and gay music from around the world featuring insightful and inspiring conversations with Queer musicians. Episodes drop weekly and are 30-40 minutes in length, celebrating LGBTQ identity, tunes and stories. Presented by Dan Hall (producer, BBC’s Freddie Mercury: The Final Act) and produced by Pup Media.
Play Trailer
In the Key of Q - 30 second spot trailer
In the Key of Q - 30 second spot trailer
21-08-2021
30 seconds
Billy Mick: Cocaine, Toxic Masculinity & Dinner Theatre
Billy Mick: Cocaine, Toxic Masculinity & Dinner Theatre
Welcome to https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) the weekly podcast where I chat with inspiring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music. Billy Mick released his first single in 2019. He's performed at Pride and Gay Days events. And in America's pandemic lockdown continued to release songs and music videos. The autobiographical studio album Just Be came out in 2020, followed up by the long-player Levelling Up. Billy speaks openly in this episode about the challenges of growing up in a household with a father who was both a drug dealer and a bullying influence on the family home. Eventually, Billy escapes into adulthood and performing dinner theatre and on the stages of https://www.universalorlando.co.uk/ (Universal's theme park) in Florida. A surprise HIV diagnosis eventually leads to hospitalisation and a near-death coma. But emerging from this crisis point Billy's life begins all over again and he goes on to produce some amazing tunes. He is passionate about the queer community, embracing the ethos of https://www.manchesterpride.com/ (Manchester Pride) in the UK. Here he witnessed what he describes as a true community where sub-groups did not disappear into their own silos, and instead mixed and enjoyed each other's strength and power. It’s how he feels out community should be. Additional MaterialBilly on https://open.spotify.com/artist/6LtraNbhR9byW6bSGipSKf?si=uXMnRXnqRlKNQ9ad1jIbhw (Spotify), https://music.apple.com/us/artist/billy-mick/1471376212 (Apple Music), https://billymick.bandcamp.com/ (Bandcamp), https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnDhp85VTy9LqPc5KsxsLng?view_as=subscriber (YouTube), https://soundcloud.com/billy-mick?ref=clipboard (Soundcloud) Billyon https://mobile.twitter.com/billymickmusic1 (Twitter), https://www.facebook.com/BillyMickMusic/ (Facebook), https://www.instagram.com/billymickmusic/?hl=en (Instagram) Billy's https://www.billymick.com (homepage) If you enjoyed this episode why not take a listen to https://player.captivate.fm/episode/ec383aa8-411e-4764-b886-678efe2052c2 (Daddy Dawg). https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) is a weekly 30-40 minute podcast publishing every Tuesday. I’m your host Dan Hall, and in each episode, I chat candidly with a gay/bi musician about their life and music.  Access exclusive interview content and support the production of this podcast by heading over to https://www.patreon.com/inthekeyofq (Petreon) and making a small donation. Enjoy the music of previous guests by listening to https://linktr.ee/inthekeyofq (these playlists) with tracks selected by the artists themselves. CreditsThe podcast can be reached on email and on social media at https://twitter.com/inthekeyofq (Twitter), https://www.instagram.com/inthekeyofq/ (Instagram) and https://www.facebook.com/InTheKeyOfQ (Facebook). The podcast’s forever home can be found https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (here). Theme tune is by https://www.unstoppablemonsters.com/ (Paul Leonidou). Press & PR by Paul Smith. Many thanks to Kaj and Moray for their continued support. https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) is presented and produced by Dan Hall and made at Pup Media. Dan has recently produced the landmark BBC film, "Freddie Mercury: The Final Act" (dir. James Rogan) and is the producer of the podcast series https://btdtshow.com/ (Been There Done That). For audio or video production inquiries Dan can be reached here or at https://www.thetalentmanager.com/talent/156474/dan-hall (Talent Manager.) Would you like to appear on the show? Or have an artist you'd like to recommend, please tell them to get in touch via email.
3d ago
35 mins
Levi Kreis: Church, Chems and Tony Awards
Levi Kreis: Church, Chems and Tony Awards
Welcome to https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) the weekly podcast where I chat with inspiring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music. Levi Kreis is a multi-award winner. Having gathered himself awards from https://criticscircle.org.uk/ (Critic's Circle), Out Music, and most excitingly, the https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mHrFrqB48wk (Tony's). Born in https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ba9mWXtGU4g (Oliver Springs), Tennessee his music features a fusion of styles influenced by gospel, country, bluegrass, and even rockabilly. He says of his career, "I've always believed that our mess is our ministry. I may be more candid than the next guy about my obstacles and struggles. I am not interested in painting a perfect picture for the world to see not when people all around me need to know how to turn their pain into personal power. The driving force behind all that I do is narrow and define. I want to heal." Even as a kid Levi had an eye for business. When offered a dollar to sing in the church for God, he suggests off the bat that given two he'd sing for Jesus as well! His deep relationship with the church and his amazing voice he was offered a lucrative gospel record contract. The contract vanished when he was outed by a betrayal within the church. Maybe it wasn't a bad thing as from the age of eight it taught him that his queerness was "detestable in the eye of god". Falling into a domestically abusive relationship, Levi's mother works out that his violent "flatmate" is actually his lover. Whilst she appears to rescue him from harm's way, she resolves the 'rescue' with a promise that his devilish homosexual ways will lead to https://www.aidsmap.com/about-hiv (an AIDS diagnosis and death). In search of community Kreis falls into the artificial comfort of https://www.aidsmap.com/news/feb-2013/crystal-meth-and-london-gay-men-examining-evidence (crystal meth), and as his addiction grows he somehow manages to win a Tony Award in 2010. Eventually breaking free from addiction he makes beautiful peace with his mistakes, his demons and wrong turns. "The truth is every pain brings you to power. Every mess is your voice to the world, and we need your voice." He is a true believer in the nature of things; the pattern of life. His career has since continued to grow including https://soundcloud.com/enrichedrecords/rich-b-vs-levi-kreis-ft-qboy-2 (a duet with alumni QBoy) and a lead role in the US touring production of https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=INqi7_7PlCs (Hadestown). Additional Material Levi on https://open.spotify.com/artist/3MxSB2qv4d11PSgSVCSzJG?si=ELkPwRSwRSGTc5yLZFVn1w&nd=1 (Spotify), https://music.apple.com/us/artist/levi-kreis/128687046 (Apple Music), https://tidal.com/browse/artist/4954512 (Tidal), https://levikreis.bandcamp.com/ (Bandcamp), https://www.youtube.com/levikreis (YouTube) Levi on Twitter, https://www.facebook.com/LeviKreis/ (Facebook), https://www.instagram.com/levikreis/ (Instagram) Levi homepage Domestic abuse help from https://galop.org.uk/get-help/helplines/ (GALOP) the LGBT+ anti-abuse charity. Help with chemsex addiction from the pioneering team at https://www.dean.st/chems/ (56 Dean Street). QBoy's episode of https://player.captivate.fm/episode/5948fa4c-5c52-450e-812a-f0df5b941927 (In the Key of Q). If you enjoyed this episode why not take a listen to https://player.captivate.fm/episode/4a7602d9-9e5d-4fd9-9c61-fe43b98196c1 (Oli Spleen). https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) is a weekly 30-40 minute podcast publishing every Tuesday. I’m your host Dan Hall, and in each episode, I chat candidly with a gay/bi musician about their life and music.  Access exclusive interview content and support the production of this podcast by heading over to https://www.patreon.com/inthekeyofq (Petreon) and making a small donation. Enjoy the music of previous guests by listening to https://linktr.ee/inthekeyofq (these...
16-05-2022
46 mins
SonicFluxx: NASA, Synths and Mental Illness
SonicFluxx: NASA, Synths and Mental Illness
Welcome to https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) the weekly podcast where I chat with inspiring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music. Sonicfluxx was born and raised in Florida in the United States. And in January 2020, his first single https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=guYvYLmA9gk (Nothing Will Ever Be the Same) debuted at number two in the https://lgbtqmusicchart.uk/ (UK's LGBTQ charts). Quickly following this success was the release of his debut EP, Nostalgia. His premier performance on stage was at only one-month-old playing Jesus - a tough opening act to follow! Growing up in https://www.melbourneflorida.org/ (Melbourne, Florida) just a stone's throw from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-83aWpiRt28 (Cocoa Beach) and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JYSQzITMQoc (NASA's) HQ he grew up seeing launch after launch into space. This was a town where people didn't dream of becoming doctors or lawyers, they aspired to the stars. The https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ccX4SEv-Hl8 (1980s sound) is hugely appealing to Sonicfluxx, even through he was only a nipper during its reign. The simpler synth sounds appeal to him more than today's complex, multi-layered some might say over-produced tracks. He speaks candidly in the episode about his music helps him manage https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DQC2eRUilUM (depression) and https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/ (mental illness), and how very important it is for queer people to see themselves reflected back in art forms. As with many of us, he cites Russell T Davies' https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xK9fkf7N33g (Queer As Folk) as a fixed point in time of seared identity. Sonicfluxx's https://www.sonicfluxx.com/store (stylish merch store) has also launched, and lucky listeners of this podcast get a 20% discount when entering the discount code INTHEKEYOFQ. This deal does not expire and can be used again and again! Shipping is free worldwide. Additional MaterialSonicFluxx on https://open.spotify.com/artist/2tyeVPOF8H42CpeBQW2cUB?si=ABxDd8zPR7qTU-9A-Ix4mg&nd=1 (Spotify), https://www.bandsintown.com/a/14855144 (Bandsintown), https://music.apple.com/us/artist/sonicfluxx/1493253843 (Apple Music), https://www.youtube.com/c/SonicFluxx (YouTube), https://tidal.com/browse/artist/9403128 (TIDAL) SonicFluxx on https://twitter.com/sonicfluxx (Twitter), https://www.facebook.com/sonicfluxx (Facebook), https://www.instagram.com/sonicfluxxofficial/ (Instagram) SonicFluxx homepage SonicFluxx https://www.sonicfluxx.com/store (merch) (remember to use discount code INTHEKEYOFQ). If you enjoyed this episode why not take a listen to https://player.captivate.fm/episode/9e6bff81-0cd4-4766-87d3-457761be6121 (Neyon). https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) is a weekly 30-40 minute podcast publishing every Tuesday. I’m your host Dan Hall, and in each episode, I chat candidly with a gay/bi musician about their life and music.  Access exclusive interview content and support the production of this podcast by heading over to https://www.patreon.com/inthekeyofq (Petreon) and making a small donation. Enjoy the music of previous guests by listening to https://linktr.ee/inthekeyofq (these playlists) with tracks selected by the artists themselves. CreditsThe podcast can be reached on email and on social media at https://twitter.com/inthekeyofq (Twitter), https://www.instagram.com/inthekeyofq/ (Instagram) and https://www.facebook.com/InTheKeyOfQ (Facebook). The podcast’s forever home can be found https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (here). Theme tune is by https://www.unstoppablemonsters.com/ (Paul Leonidou). Press & PR by Paul Smith. Many thanks to Kaj and Moray for their continued support. https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) is presented and produced by Dan Hall and made at Pup Media. Dan has recently produced the landmark BBC film, "Freddie Mercury: The Final Act" (dir....
09-05-2022
35 mins
Xantheartist: Kanye, Military & Self-Defence
Xantheartist: Kanye, Military & Self-Defence
Welcome to https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) the weekly podcast where I chat with inspiring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music. Xantheartist counts an impressive hundred thousand streams on Spotify. He's only three years into his music career, but has already secured a number one record with his cover https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4k8YciWlzpc (Hapsburg Lippp). Before transitioning to a man, he served in the https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xk6YJiVsxUE (US military) and went on to make a considerable name for himself on the https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CldnNvIDj6M (drag king circuit). He grew up in a household with https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nirvana_(band) (Nirvana), https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phil_Collins (Phil Collins), https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Edition (New Edition) and https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luther_Vandross (Luther Vandross) pumping from the family hifi. The home was of military stock, and during his childhood his father was deployed in the https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QmwYNS97EbE (first Iraq war). The strict household and challenges around gender identity dropped https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_n9qegR7C4 (PTSD) on Xan, which is being worked through today with counseling. Accidental encounters showed Xan that he was an excellent performer, both as a rapper and drag king. He increasingly felt the drag king persona was closer to his genuine identity and went onto transition, female-to-male. He speaks eloquently about the https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9iKHjl5xAaA (importance to avoid mis-gendering), and the hurt this can cause. He speaks passionately about the importance of https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aSe4tY6nVCM (self-denfence for the LGBTQ community) and especially within the https://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=qpoc (QPOC) community. 'You can walk with your head high and confidently knowing that you can defend yourself against anything. ' Additional MaterialXantheartist on https://open.spotify.com/artist/6orEk0B4jR6HnZlpmQXNN1 (Spotify), https://music.apple.com/gb/artist/xantheartist/1489560585 (Apple Music), https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8ZqvX8YwfmqnDwbo9P6-tw (YouTube) Xantheartist on https://twitter.com/xantheartist (Twitter), https://www.facebook.com/Xantheartist/ (Facebook), https://www.instagram.com/xantheartist/ (Instagram), https://www.tiktok.com/@xantheartist (TikTok) Xantheartist https://aaothebrand.bigcartel.com/?utm_medium=social&utm_source=linktree&utm_campaign=xantheartist+merch (merch) Xantheartist https://linktr.ee/Xantheartist (homepage) If you enjoyed this episode why not take a listen to https://player.captivate.fm/episode/50141916-5c20-46d1-83b9-f4009555df25 (Ryan Cassata). https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) is a weekly 30-40 minute podcast publishing every Tuesday. I’m your host Dan Hall, and in each episode, I chat candidly with a gay/bi musician about their life and music.  Access exclusive interview content and support the production of this podcast by heading over to https://www.patreon.com/inthekeyofq (Petreon) and making a small donation. Enjoy the music of previous guests by listening to https://linktr.ee/inthekeyofq (these playlists) with tracks selected by the artists themselves. CreditsThe podcast can be reached on email and on social media at https://twitter.com/inthekeyofq (Twitter), https://www.instagram.com/inthekeyofq/ (Instagram) and https://www.facebook.com/InTheKeyOfQ (Facebook). The podcast’s forever home can be found https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (here). Theme tune is by https://www.unstoppablemonsters.com/ (Paul Leonidou). Press & PR by Paul Smith. Many thanks to Kaj and Moray for their continued support. https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) is presented and produced by Dan Hall and made at Pup Media. Dan has recently produced the landmark BBC film, "Freddie Mercury: The Final Act" (dir. James...
02-05-2022
40 mins
Matthew and the Keys: Potter, Madonna and Silenced BIPOC
Matthew and the Keys: Potter, Madonna and Silenced BIPOC
Welcome to https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) the weekly podcast where I chat with inspiring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music. This week's guest is from https://exploreedmonton.com/ (Edmonton, Alberta in Canada). His music combines personal experiences, passion, and is inspired by artists as varied as https://vanessacarlton.com/ (Vanessa Carlton), http://johnmayer.com/ (John Mayer) and https://www.ilovemetric.com/ (Metric). He is an educator, a model, and an actor. He's sung since the age of two and has written songs since he was 12. Despite being a shy kid, Matthew couldn't stop his love of the https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nNa2Fr6CA0E (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles) from escaping out. And he'd tell anyone who'd listen about https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leonardo_(Teenage_Mutant_Ninja_Turtles) (Leonardo), https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raphael_(Teenage_Mutant_Ninja_Turtles) (Raphael), https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Donatello_(Teenage_Mutant_Ninja_Turtles) (Donatello) and https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michelangelo_(Teenage_Mutant_Ninja_Turtles) (Michelangelo) - those heroes in a half shell. And of course, he'd run around the house singing the theme. His home was beautifully musical with Soul, Hip Hop, Rap and R&B blending with the tunes of Abba's https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sj_9CiNkkn4 (Waterloo), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQsjAbZDx-4 (Fernando) and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cvChjHcABPA (SOS). As an adult, he is frustrated how the gay community can be bad at looking after its own. And how we can often be blind to the silencing of https://www.cbsnews.com/news/bipoc-meaning-where-does-it-come-from-2020-04-02/ (BIPOC) of LGBTQ voices. He out and proud music most definitely moves towards that, even more so with the release of his new album https://matthewandthekeys.bandcamp.com/ (Victory) (Produced by https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brett_Reed (Brett Reed)). Additional MaterialMatthew on https://open.spotify.com/artist/4mk9UWr2VGXGH6Qch19GJY?si=JRe-pOwjRy-GUVSyS_QDIw (Spotify), https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/matthew-and-the-keys/1575113264 (Apple Music), https://matthewandthekeys.bandcamp.com/ (Bandcamp), YouTube Matthew on https://twitter.com/mathekeys (Twitter), https://www.instagram.com/mathekeys/ (Instagram) Matthew's homepage If you enjoyed this episode why not take a listen to https://player.captivate.fm/episode/6bb0c518-3782-4302-aa01-db3fa0b47d0b (Andy Pisanu ("Memory Flowers")). https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) is a weekly 30-40 minute podcast publishing every Tuesday. I’m your host Dan Hall, and in each episode, I chat candidly with a gay/bi musician about their life and music.  Access exclusive interview content and support the production of this podcast by heading over to https://www.patreon.com/inthekeyofq (Petreon) and making a small donation. Enjoy the music of previous guests by listening to https://linktr.ee/inthekeyofq (these playlists) with tracks selected by the artists themselves. CreditsThe podcast can be reached on email and on social media at https://twitter.com/inthekeyofq (Twitter), https://www.instagram.com/inthekeyofq/ (Instagram) and https://www.facebook.com/InTheKeyOfQ (Facebook). The podcast’s forever home can be found https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (here). Theme tune is by https://www.unstoppablemonsters.com/ (Paul Leonidou). Press & PR by Paul Smith. Many thanks to Kaj and Moray for their continued support. https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) is presented and produced by Dan Hall and made at Pup Media. Dan has recently produced the landmark BBC film, "Freddie Mercury: The Final Act" (dir. James Rogan) and is the producer of the podcast series https://btdtshow.com/ (Been There Done That). For audio or video production inquiries Dan can be reached here or at https://www.thetalentmanager.com/talent/156474/dan-hall (Talent Manager.)
25-04-2022
36 mins
Dead Method: Femme, Feelings and Welsh Resilience
Dead Method: Femme, Feelings and Welsh Resilience
Welcome to https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) the weekly podcast where I chat with inspiring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music. Lloyd Best performing as Dead Method is an alternative pop artist based in https://www.visitcardiff.com/ (Cardiff, Wales). They started a solo career in 2018 and they've gone on to support https://65daysofstatic.com/ (65 Days of Static) and https://www.publicservicebroadcasting.net/ (Public Service Broadcasting). In 2020, their debut album https://deadmethod.bandcamp.com/album/queer-genesis (Queer Genesis) was released, an exploration of queer culture and identity. The sceptre of https://www.bbc.co.uk/bbcthree/article/cacc0b40-c3a4-473b-86cc-11863c0b3f30 (Section 28) hung over his upbringing as merciless homophobic bullying went unchecked in his Welsh Catholic school. Despite the comfort and support of a loving home the experience and failure of teachers to act https://www.legalchoices.org.uk/dictionary/in-loco-parentis#:~:text=Latin%20phrase,and%20responsibilities%20of%20a%20parent. (in loco parentis) still scar him today. Despite growing up in the country's capital city of Cardiff he faced narrow-minded attitudes towards his sexuality. Perhaps surprisingly these were present in the city's music industry too which left him feeling small and silenced. Thankfully he found his tribe as so many of us do, which allowed him not only to blossom as a musician but also as a queer man. This is shown no better than in his empowering and catchy new album release, https://www.audiofemme.com/dead-method-unpacks-generational-trauma-on-debut-lp-queer-genesis/ (Femme). Additional MaterialDealing with homophobic bullying at school from https://www.stonewall.org.uk/resources/ten-steps-tackling-homophobic-biphobic-and-transphobic-language-your-school (Stonewall). Dead Method on https://open.spotify.com/artist/3B3cVlhfVXbKGC5YXlmUCn?si=M5A_VSWERNGLOXMyuAM8iA (Spotify), https://music.apple.com/us/artist/dead-method/1111993076 (Apple Music), https://deadmethod.bandcamp.com/ (Bandcamp), https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRMeyXAPaGLi9tM4DAOJFUA (YouTube) Dead Method on https://twitter.com/DeadMethod (Twitter), https://www.facebook.com/deadmethod (Facebook), https://www.instagram.com/deadmethod/ (Instagram), https://www.tiktok.com/@deadmethod (TikTok) Dead Method https://www.deadmethod.co.uk/ (homepage) If you enjoyed this episode why not take a listen to https://player.captivate.fm/episode/da743736-934f-4d95-92d3-b4ac0596e17d (Daniel Versus the World). https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) is a weekly 30-40 minute podcast publishing every Tuesday. I’m your host Dan Hall, and in each episode, I chat candidly with a gay/bi musician about their life and music.  Access exclusive interview content and support the production of this podcast by heading over to https://www.patreon.com/inthekeyofq (Petreon) and making a small donation. Enjoy the music of previous guests by listening to https://linktr.ee/inthekeyofq (these playlists) with tracks selected by the artists themselves. CreditsThe podcast can be reached on email and on social media at https://twitter.com/inthekeyofq (Twitter), https://www.instagram.com/inthekeyofq/ (Instagram) and https://www.facebook.com/InTheKeyOfQ (Facebook). The podcast’s forever home can be found https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (here). Theme tune is by https://www.unstoppablemonsters.com/ (Paul Leonidou). Press & PR by Paul Smith. Many thanks to Kaj and Moray for their continued support. https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) is presented and produced by Dan Hall and made at Pup Media. Dan has recently produced the landmark BBC film, "Freddie Mercury: The Final Act" (dir. James Rogan) and is the producer of the podcast series https://btdtshow.com/ (Been There Done That). For audio or video production inquiries Dan can be reached here or at...
18-04-2022
34 mins
Gentleman Reg: Nomad, Underground & Military Brat
Gentleman Reg: Nomad, Underground & Military Brat
Welcome to https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) the weekly podcast where I chat with inspiring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music. Gentleman Reg hails from Toronto in Canada. He's a singer songwriter, drag artist, DJ and makeup artist. He has released seven full-length albums with various bands, including https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h_lRbqGuNlw (Light Fires), and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VArVTO0OB9I (Regina Gently). A former member of the group https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3Vca2JLG_o (Hidden Cameras), Reg has also sung is also sung with https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XrV14ujN4pw (Broken Social Scene) and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7G-cqAehehA (Owen Pallett). Intriguingly he also had a cameo in the film https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WSvrb9h2huc (Shortbus), which this year sees a rerelease. Reg had a nomadic upbringing. With a military pilot father, he grew up in both Germany and Canada. Eventually settling in the small town of https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=taC9a7gdvto (Guelph) he found himself surrounded by music, not least because of the indie-celebrating festival, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hillside_Festival (Hillside). Eventually releasing his own music, he worked with many different bands and guises including the highly popular Hidden Cameras. He has a https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Farts-crafts.ca%2Fartists%2Fgentleman-reg.html&psig=AOvVaw2SPN3ChHPxa2gy6Tcc9HBc&ust=1644938109762000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAsQjRxqFwoTCLjmu5C-__UCFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD (striking look) with white hair and pale skin, and eventually learned to embrace people's wrong assumption that he was albino. And as the effeminate kid in school, from an early age he learned to roll with is Otherness. Gentleman Reg embraced online living during the pandemic and found himself not only entertaining his old audience but swathes of new people who never usually visited bars. He is an advocate of the alternative side of the queer scene, and this was a natural extension of that, reaching audiences for whom mainstream queer living mostly ignored. Additional MaterialGentleman Reg on https://open.spotify.com/artist/4c8kfEGVYPmMAijqIm6L2Y?si=0My2_ZzZR1yrAzbIfA3rjg (Spotify), https://music.apple.com/us/artist/gentleman-reg/205752528 (Apple Music), https://gentlemanreg.bandcamp.com/ (Bandcamp) Gentleman Reg on https://twitter.com/gentlemanreg (Twitter), https://www.instagram.com/gentleman_reg/ (Instagram) Gentleman Reg https://gentlemanreg.bandcamp.com/ (homepage) If you enjoyed this episode why not take a listen to https://player.captivate.fm/episode/7bd70726-57e7-4749-9f0e-c3952bb4280e (Nick Vaan). https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) is a weekly 30-40 minute podcast publishing every Tuesday. I’m your host Dan Hall, and in each episode, I chat candidly with a gay/bi musician about their life and music.  Access exclusive interview content and support the production of this podcast by heading over to https://www.patreon.com/inthekeyofq (Petreon) and making a small donation. Enjoy the music of previous guests by listening to https://linktr.ee/inthekeyofq (these playlists) with tracks selected by the artists themselves. CreditsThe podcast can be reached on email and on social media at https://twitter.com/inthekeyofq (Twitter), https://www.instagram.com/inthekeyofq/ (Instagram) and https://www.facebook.com/InTheKeyOfQ (Facebook). The podcast’s forever home can be found https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (here). Theme tune is by https://www.unstoppablemonsters.com/ (Paul Leonidou). Press & PR by Paul Smith. Many thanks to Kaj and Moray for their continued support. https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) is presented and produced by Dan Hall and made at Pup Media. Dan has recently produced the landmark BBC film, "Freddie Mercury: The Final Act" (dir. James Rogan) and is the producer of the...
11-04-2022
36 mins
A-Natural: Homelessness, Rape and Conversations with God
A-Natural: Homelessness, Rape and Conversations with God
Welcome to https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) the weekly podcast where I chat with inspiring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music. A-Natural founded https://www.naturalcitymusic.com/ (Natural City Music) recording label and has himself won two international independent music awards. He's opened for https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dBrRBZy8OTs (T-Pain) and has written and produced for multiple major artists. In 2020 he released the album, 'https://open.spotify.com/album/3XEhQ8Bfh632eE4bUQaWpf?si=8gAosREPT9SKWdFWKwxjew (Kwame)', a seminal autobiographical piece in 12 tracks. Gospel church music has been hugely influential on A-Natural with the church being very present throughout his upbringing. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UqDSxuxGx-g (B Slade) (formerly Tonex) is mentioned as a particular inspiration - a "gospel Prince"! Coming into college A-Natural discovered new kinds of music and went into writing and performing his own material. But the task is not easy, and as a friend of his said, musicians sacrificed their lives so that everyone can have a soundtrack to theirs. He faces the challenges of being Black, American, Queer and Christian helped particularly by the book https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conversations_with_God (Conversations with God) by Neale Donald Walsch. He tells us, Faith doesn't just have to be about God. Faith is about understanding that the things that you want for your life can come to pass. If you just believe. After a period of homelessness he gets onto his feet, but is raped on the night he loses his virginity. It's a traumatic memory that has laid dormant until viewing the BBC show 'https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000jyxy (I May Destroy You)' by https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2021/sep/05/michaela-coel-you-ask-the-questions-misfits-personal-manifesto-interview (Michaela Coel) in which the character Kwame experiences a similar experience. He goes on to plea for musicians to give themselves time and space to be creative; to allow themselves to make their art and not just 'content'. He says with sadness, We're demanded to be these caricatures of ourselves. And we get exhausted and burnt out trying to please an algorithm that really doesn't know who we are. Additional Material A-Natural's homepage. A-Natural on https://twitter.com/Anatural4Ever?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor (Twitter) and https://www.instagram.com/anatural4ever/?hl=en-gb (Instagram). A-Natural on https://open.spotify.com/artist/2YjQ3m0XlKoyx2PY9OnryA?si=AA8EoqRUSEaznljWcMAGqQ (Spotify) and https://music.apple.com/us/artist/a-natural/201657418 (Apple Music.) https://www.sexualhealthwirral.nhs.uk/media/1076/sexual_violence__men.pdf (Leaflet) providing assistance to those affected by sexual violence. Help after rape and sexual assault from the https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/sexual-health/help-after-rape-and-sexual-assault/ (NHS). If you enjoyed this episode why not take a listen to https://player.captivate.fm/episode/8499f3af-4a24-4f54-bb87-ff4048758eb8 (Wuhryn Dumas). https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) is a weekly 30-40 minute podcast publishing every Tuesday. I’m your host Dan Hall, and in each episode, I chat candidly with a gay/bi musician about their life and music.  Access exclusive interview content and support the production of this podcast by heading over to https://www.patreon.com/inthekeyofq (Petreon) and making a small donation. Enjoy the music of previous guests by listening to https://linktr.ee/inthekeyofq (these playlists) with tracks selected by the artists themselves. CreditsThe podcast can be reached on email and on social media at https://twitter.com/inthekeyofq (Twitter), https://www.instagram.com/inthekeyofq/ (Instagram) and https://www.facebook.com/InTheKeyOfQ (Facebook). The podcast’s forever home can be found https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (here). Theme tune is by...
04-04-2022
40 mins
Benjamin Stewart: Gender, Soundscapes & Lucid Dreams
Benjamin Stewart: Gender, Soundscapes & Lucid Dreams
Welcome to https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) the weekly podcast where I chat with inspiring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music. Benjamin Stewart has been making music for over 10 years and has written and recorded since the age of 12. They define as non-binary. Living an authentic life in America's Mississippi state. In November 2021 they released the album 'Spaces', a dystopian electronic eight-track instrumental work. Benjamin is constantly inspired by the everyday, accidental rhythms around them such as the weekly fire alarm test in their complex. These lead to the creation of their long, complex instrumental pieces that are both edgy and relaxing. Listen with headphones! The music will take you into another world. Further inspiration is taken from within as Benjamin talks about https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OK3SfNxbK3Y (lucid dreaming) and the remarkable way that they have managed to teach themselves the skill to regularly achieve it. It's all about habit, hands and a candle! And tied in with this is Benjamin's celebration of rest, and a plea to the world to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LYzuqhBU0Ic (allow itself time-out.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kVe8wpmH_lU (Narrow definitions of gender) are very much not their bag. Benjamin talks about their own journey, delighting in the freedom granted by being freed from gender expectations. Additional MaterialBenjamin on https://www.instagram.com/benjamin_james_stewart/?hl=en-gb (Instagram) and https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100073334365846 (Facebook). Benjamin on https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLK21KYnbD4ik3X9wl1sGDsGrJW4swrfkb (YouTube), https://open.spotify.com/album/3PvFOb9h5lUtj6ttoCu4YU?si=dKl5Mqh-SG2GZONJs9t4CA (Spotify), https://music.apple.com/gb/artist/benjamin-james-stewart/1425560739 (Apple) and https://projektrecords.bandcamp.com/album/spaces (Bandcamp). A great article celebrating https://www.hrc.org/news/celebrating-the-diversity-of-the-non-binary-community-for-international-non (non-binary living) and great ways to be a https://www.stonewall.org.uk/about-us/news/10-ways-step-ally-non-binary-people (tip-top ally). The Guardian newspaper asks https://www.theguardian.com/science/2021/nov/14/can-lucid-dreaming-help-us-understand-consciousness (Can Lucid Dreaming Help Us Understand Consciousness?) Fans of Benjamin's work might like to hear music from the https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7QbmZDG_0B8&list=PLGoZY3QbnoT2PuohOX8GIOqApwGmgvIWX (BBC Radiophonic Workshop), one of the pioneers of the genre. This week's cross-promotion comes from the wonderful https://songsurfingpodcast.com/ (Song Surfing Podcast.) If you enjoyed this episode why not take a listen to https://player.captivate.fm/episode/68fbaf21-2a5d-4a20-9503-36ad9882bfd8 (Dhorin Fireheart). https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) is a weekly 30-40 minute podcast publishing every Tuesday. I’m your host Dan Hall, and in each episode, I chat candidly with a gay/bi musician about their life and music.  Access exclusive interview content and support the production of this podcast by heading over to https://www.patreon.com/inthekeyofq (Petreon) and making a small donation. Enjoy the music of previous guests by listening to https://linktr.ee/inthekeyofq (these playlists) with tracks selected by the artists themselves. CreditsThe podcast can be reached on email and on social media at https://twitter.com/inthekeyofq (Twitter), https://www.instagram.com/inthekeyofq/ (Instagram) and https://www.facebook.com/InTheKeyOfQ (Facebook). The podcast’s forever home can be found https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (here). Theme tune is by https://www.unstoppablemonsters.com/ (Paul Leonidou). Press & PR by Paul Smith. Many thanks to Kaj and Moray for their continued support. https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) is presented and produced by Dan Hall and made at Pup Media. Dan has...
28-03-2022
34 mins
Brandon James Gwinn: Broadway, Tumbleweed and Tori Spelling
Brandon James Gwinn: Broadway, Tumbleweed and Tori Spelling
Welcome to https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) the weekly podcast where I chat with inspiring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music. This week's guest is Brandon James Gwinn, a https://www.livenation.co.uk/ (Live Nation) touring artist and Billboard number one indie music producer. He won the https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Rodgers_Awards_for_Musical_Theatre (Richard Rogers award) for musical theater writing. Previous winners include such illustrious alumni as https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KGciEYSshrQ (Rent's) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jonathan_Larson (Jonathan Larson). His most recent album https://open.spotify.com/album/3n3ifoQrHhiEHY94v6WgOw (Bullit) is a rock delight with glorious splashes of https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qWI6E8gdBzk (Hedwick), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4H5I6y1Qvz0 (Scissor Sisters), and musical theatre. Lock two gay men on a call and it is inevitable that within a minute they mention https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bEMaMPkYmPc (Bernadette Peters). But not to be outdone we also get https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lTOzR1sSfFs (Better Midler), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K6UmO8K6pJY (Katherine Hepburn) and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O_KOoYClwgw (Moss Hart) in there too! Brandon talks about the creatively restrictive living of smalltown https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXMnkqDjh1U (Murfreesboro, TN). But despite this, his parents and grandfolks managed to fill the family home with https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wJzNZ1c5C9c (REO Speedwagon), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KZ1RP84QLdY (the Eagles), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LPn0KFlbqX8 (Eighties Pop), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6vOUYry_5Nw (Glenn Miller) and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mp349H8G0XQ (Billie Holiday). With such a gorgeous mix of inspiring music is it any surprise that their boy headed to the https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H1gMQ_q3FSM (bright lights of New York and the dreams of Broadway!) Despite a modest schooling, talented Brandon beat all the odds and made it into NYU training to write for musical theatre. He's a https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fv3GxVeZ5Xc (real-life Gabe)! Of course, by this point, we've discovered a shared love for the movie https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R94MIJXMjB8 (Trick) and hope that the COVID-delayed https://www.out.com/popnography/2018/8/11/director-jim-fall-talks-trick-2-and-20-years-original (sequel) will still materialize. He talks about connecting with https://trixiemattel.com/ (Trixie Mattel), and how touring together inspired his Bullit album. And how he's learned to lean on good chums in times of depression. Or to put it better https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WWpzwsg2f6M (he quotes the great Bette herself!) Episode highlights: Brandon's links: homepage, https://www.instagram.com/brandonjamesg/?hl=en (Insta), https://www.youtube.com/user/brandonjamesgwinn (YouTube), https://music.apple.com/us/artist/brandon-james-gwinn/1370791771 (Apple Music), https://open.spotify.com/artist/3I9T5AgjwclSl9nR6VAIi5 (Spotify) Gateway song: https://open.spotify.com/track/0SitASdFfwGFesYwsWGi7G?si=c9a5928cbe96454d (Bullit) I totally love this video for https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5nKZu5KHSiY (Cristal Conners) possibly because Brandon looks such a dish in it. If you enjoyed this episode, I suggest taking a listen to https://player.captivate.fm/episode/6388204c-33f3-4bfd-8c1c-cd6073f4b4a6 (Matthew Presidente). https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) is a weekly 30-40 minute podcast publishing every Tuesday. I’m your host Dan Hall, and in each episode, I chat candidly with a gay/bi musician about their life and music.  Access exclusive interview content and support the production of this podcast by heading over to https://www.patreon.com/inthekeyofq (Petreon) and making a small donation. Enjoy the music of previous guests by listening to https://linktr.ee/inthekeyofq (these...
21-03-2022
39 mins
QBoy: Bullies, HIV & Victoria Wood
QBoy: Bullies, HIV & Victoria Wood
Welcome to https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) the weekly podcast where I chat with inspiring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music. This week's guest is https://www.qboymusic.com/ (QBoy). Born Marcos Brito he is a DJ, music artist, producer, rapper, and dancer. He was raised in https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basildon (Basildon), Essex and https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/La_Gomera (La Gomera), Canary Islands, being of half-British, half-Gomeran descent.  He has five independent releases under his belt, he has helped lead the way for diversity and inclusion within the LGBTQ community and hip-hop. At present, he is co-promoter and DJ at popular club night 'https://www.randsheclub.com/ (R & She: The Queens Of Hip-Hop)' which now in its 8th year has featured sets by https://www.instagram.com/djspinderella/?hl=en (DJ Spinderella) of https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vCadcBR95oU (Salt-N-Pepa) and https://www.instagram.com/melanieblatt/?hl=en (Mel Blatt) of https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dVNdTXEJv1A (All Saints). QBoy also has a weekly residency at London's megaclub https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dVNdTXEJv1A (Heaven) and also plays regularly for https://www.thened.com/ (The Ned and Ace Hotel )London. In the episode, QBoy chats about his love of rapping, how he loves that it carries the visceral energy of youth. We touch on https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wk8YrrMVAaY (Section 28) and the negative impact it had on his schooling as he experienced the dark cloud of classroom homophobic bullying. Passions for music and dancing carried him through those tough times, as did indeed a love of https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1QnpyVzigng (Five Star) and the wonderful https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fFI5Jl_IqsE (Victoria Wood.) Launching himself into the hip hop scene of the early 2000s, QBoy chats about joining gayhiphop.com and finding himself at the centre of a Queer hip hop collective with the likes of https://soundcloud.com/kisumandntt/mister-maker (DJ Mister Maker). He was part of that first generation of https://myspace.com/discover/artists (MySpace) musicians, able to use the then-new technology of the internet to connect to audiences. QBoy was self-producing and self-releasing content at a time when it was an unusual thing to do. Because he's a https://www.romeo.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Thumbnail_Qboy_sexy.jpg (sexy-looking pup), QBoy managed to get hip hop onto the world's pride stages. They were happy to hire a cute white boy, but not his Queer black counterparts. QBoy talks about his frustration on this and his attempts to redress the balance pushing artists like the https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XNXDquAtOxE (Deep Dick Collective) and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bl1hpM-ieMo (Tori Fixx). As with so many of the Queer generation, QBoy's life was touched by HIV and for years he battled with the https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yiU8nQ_-q9s&t=28s (stigma and shame) around his status. He speaks passionately about https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MU163mygEUs (positive shaming on Grindr and Scruff,) and his irritation behind people crowing on apps about their negative status. Additional Material Basildon - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6vmUm3YTSlc (BBC rebranding), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OvBtJ5DTRrM (New Town Utopia (Trailer)) Assistance for people with HIV: https://positivelyuk.org/ (Positively UK) (standing up for the dignity and rights for people with HIV); https://www.nat.org.uk/ (National AIDS Trust) (securing rights and stopping HIV); https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hiv-and-aids/living-with/ (NHS Advice on Living with HIV) (UK health service); https://www.tht.org.uk/ (Terrence Higgins Trust) (landmark UK-based HIV charity). Gateway Song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xqHvmSp5PDo (Q.B.O.Y. (Is Just So Fly)) If you enjoyed this episode, I suggest taking a listen to...
14-03-2022
49 mins
Feed Takeover! The Song Surfing Podcast
Feed Takeover! The Song Surfing Podcast
Welcome to https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) the weekly podcast where I chat with inspiring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music. This week we're taken over by the https://songsurfingpodcast.com/ (Song Surfing podcast)! It's a music discovery podcast showcasing the best indie music from around the world!  Hear an eclectic mix of music spanning many genres and discover your next favorite artist. https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) is a weekly 30-40 minute podcast publishing every Tuesday. I’m your host Dan Hall, and in each episode, I chat candidly with a gay/bi musician about their life and music.  Access exclusive interview content and support the production of this podcast by heading over to https://www.patreon.com/inthekeyofq (Petreon) and making a small donation. Enjoy the music of previous guests by listening to https://linktr.ee/inthekeyofq (these playlists) with tracks selected by the artists themselves. CreditsThe podcast can be reached on email and on social media at https://twitter.com/inthekeyofq (Twitter), https://www.instagram.com/inthekeyofq/ (Instagram) and https://www.facebook.com/InTheKeyOfQ (Facebook). The podcast’s forever home can be found https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (here). Theme tune is by https://www.unstoppablemonsters.com/ (Paul Leonidou). Press & PR by Paul Smith. Many thanks to Kaj and Moray for their continued support. https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) is presented and produced by Dan Hall and made at Pup Media. Dan has recently produced the landmark BBC film, "Freddie Mercury: The Final Act" (dir. James Rogan) and is the producer of the podcast series https://btdtshow.com/ (Been There Done That). For audio or video production inquiries Dan can be reached here or at https://www.thetalentmanager.com/talent/156474/dan-hall (Talent Manager.) Would you like to appear on the show? Or have an artist you'd like to recommend, please tell them to get in touch via email.
08-03-2022
36 mins
Paul Andrews - Revisited
Paul Andrews - Revisited
Welcome to https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) the weekly podcast where I chat with inspiring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music. Featuring new material made public for the first time, LGBTQ singer Paul Andrews discusses his five favourite songs plus the one track that he'd chosen as a gateway song into his catalogue. Series 2 of In the Key of Q is scheduled to appear on 15 March 2022. Please https://player.captivate.fm/episode/4758e68d-d3c2-4bfa-9432-8258875150d9 (click here) for more information regarding the delay. Additional MaterialPaul on https://twitter.com/VolleyPaul (Twitter), https://www.facebook.com/officialpaulandrews/ (Facebook), https://www.instagram.com/officialpaulandrews/ (Instagram) Paul's https://paulandrews.org/ (homepage) https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) is a weekly 30-40 minute podcast publishing every Tuesday. I’m your host Dan Hall, and in each episode, I chat candidly with a gay/bi musician about their life and music.  Access exclusive interview content and support the production of this podcast by heading over to https://www.patreon.com/inthekeyofq (Petreon) and making a small donation. Enjoy the music of previous guests by listening to https://linktr.ee/inthekeyofq (these playlists) with tracks selected by the artists themselves. CreditsThe podcast can be reached on email and on social media at https://twitter.com/inthekeyofq (Twitter), https://www.instagram.com/inthekeyofq/ (Instagram) and https://www.facebook.com/InTheKeyOfQ (Facebook). The podcast’s forever home can be found https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (here). Theme tune is by https://www.unstoppablemonsters.com/ (Paul Leonidou). Press & PR by Paul Smith. Many thanks to Kaj and Moray for their continued support. https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) is presented and produced by Dan Hall and made at Pup Media. Dan has recently produced the landmark BBC film, "Freddie Mercury: The Final Act" (dir. James Rogan) and is the producer of the podcast series https://btdtshow.com/ (Been There Done That). For audio or video production inquiries Dan can be reached here or at https://www.thetalentmanager.com/talent/156474/dan-hall (Talent Manager.) Would you like to appear on the show? Or have an artist you'd like to recommend, please tell them to get in touch via email.
28-02-2022
12 mins
A Message about Series 2
A Message about Series 2
A message from presenter and producer Dan Hall about series 2.
27-02-2022
1 min
Catch-Up with Ty McKinnie
Catch-Up with Ty McKinnie
Welcome to https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) the weekly podcast where I chat with inspiring Queer musicians from around the world as they share stories, inspirations and of course their music. Just one week until the launch of Season 2 with https://www.qboymusic.com/ (QBoy)! But until then pull up a chair and listen in on TyMcKinnie and I talking gentrification, COVID and dating, not dating, dating, not dating, definitely not dating, but sort of dating... :-) Additional MaterialHear Ty's original episode https://player.captivate.fm/episode/492b004a-5c0c-4196-8715-5bfe4e2eca33 (here)! Ty guests on the pod's two Black Queer America specials: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/92ce250c-6fc7-4909-9f44-7d66fc59d21e (Part 1) & https://player.captivate.fm/episode/520e56c0-8996-4a2e-a229-dae9120e00b4 (Part 2). Ty on https://open.spotify.com/artist/7HVyXlLQIqjf3lJWZIVF3E (Spotify), https://music.apple.com/gb/artist/ty-mckinnie/1194361663 (Apple Music), https://tymckinnie.bandcamp.com/ (Bandcamp), https://www.youtube.com/TYMCKINNIE (YouTube), https://tidal.com/browse/artist/8428744 (TIDAL) Ty on https://twitter.com/tymckinnie (Twitter), https://www.facebook.com/tymckinnie/ (Facebook), https://www.instagram.com/tymckinnie/ (Instagram), https://www.tiktok.com/@tymckinnie (TikTok) Ty's https://tymckinnie.com/home (homepage) Ty mentions queer artists in this episode. Take a listen to their episodes - https://player.captivate.fm/episode/41f02736-d8b7-4902-8adf-b5183d4c8540 (The IZM) and https://player.captivate.fm/episode/d9637d94-9907-4e32-911c-6f96236015bc (FURILLOSTAR). https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) is a weekly 30-40 minute podcast publishing every Tuesday. I’m your host Dan Hall, and in each episode, I chat candidly with a gay/bi musician about their life and music.  Access exclusive interview content and support the production of this podcast by heading over to https://www.patreon.com/inthekeyofq (Petreon) and making a small donation. Enjoy the music of previous guests by listening to https://linktr.ee/inthekeyofq (these playlists) with tracks selected by the artists themselves. CreditsThe podcast can be reached on email and on social media at https://twitter.com/inthekeyofq (Twitter), https://www.instagram.com/inthekeyofq/ (Instagram) and https://www.facebook.com/InTheKeyOfQ (Facebook). The podcast’s forever home can be found https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (here). Theme tune is by https://www.unstoppablemonsters.com/ (Paul Leonidou). Press & PR by Paul Smith. Many thanks to Kaj and Moray for their continued support. https://www.inthekeyofq.com/ (In the Key of Q) is presented and produced by Dan Hall and made at Pup Media. Dan has recently produced the landmark BBC film, "Freddie Mercury: The Final Act" (dir. James Rogan) and is the producer of the podcast series https://btdtshow.com/ (Been There Done That). For audio or video production inquiries Dan can be reached here or at https://www.thetalentmanager.com/talent/156474/dan-hall (Talent Manager.) Would you like to appear on the show? Or have an artist you'd like to recommend, please tell them to get in touch via email.
21-02-2022
21 mins
Jsky - Revisited
Jsky - Revisited
Featuring new material made public for the first time, LGBTQ singer Jsky discusses his five favourite songs plus the one track that he'd chosen as a gateway song into his catalogue. Series 2 of In the Key of Q will begin on 1 March 2022. Links: Episode https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hbQ9KUtI3pwOSaAoL7i7YPPYGeveg7lJ/view?usp=sharing (transcription). Jsky’s choices: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deniece_Williams (Deniece Williams), https://www.pavarottiofficial.com/ (Pavarotti), https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jocelyn_Brown (Jocelyn Brown), http://alleviatedrecords.com/ (Larry Heard) Jsky’s https://worldofjsky.com/ (homepage). Jsky’s https://jskychat.com/blog/ (blog). Jsky on https://twitter.com/jskychat (Twitter), https://www.instagram.com/jskychat/ (Insta), https://www.facebook.com/jskychat (Facebook) and https://www.youtube.com/jskychat (YouTube). Jsky’s https://open.spotify.com/show/1iPYrzRRylSB6og5f1DUj6 (podcast). In the Key of Q composer Paul Leonidou’shttps://www.unstoppablemonsters.com/ ( online home). Please subscribe to the podcast, rate and review. And spread the word! You can find us onhttps://twitter.com/InTheKeyOfQ ( Twitter) andhttps://www.instagram.com/inthekeyofq/ ( Instagram) and join the community over onhttps://www.facebook.com/In-the-Key-of-Q-104781968301237 ( Facebook).
14-02-2022
13 mins
Wuhryn Dumas - Revisited
Wuhryn Dumas - Revisited
Featuring new material made public for the first time, LGBTQ singer Wuhryn Dumas discusses his five favourite songs plus the one track that he'd chosen as a gateway song into his catalogue. Series 2 of In the Key of Q will begin on 1 March 2022. Links: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VJh3-LDPbJmUhUyvxCjIhUIYM9gwGHC6/view?usp=sharing (Transcript). Wuhryn’s https://www.wuhryndumas.com/ (homepage). Wuhryn on: https://open.spotify.com/track/3v5xsVnpZWBj1TP9qBzllh (Spotify), https://geo.music.apple.com/gb/album/_/1533571100?i=1533571104&mt=1&app=music&ls=1 (Apple Music), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Y8EiGHr8W8 (YouTube), https://soundcloud.com/wuhryndumas/2u-single (SoundCloud), https://music.amazon.com/albums/B08KCW71CL?trackAsin=B08KD32H3G (Amazon Music), https://listen.tidal.com/track/156813384 (Tidal), https://napster.com/track/tra.520482195 (Napster). Wuhryn’s choices: https://www.beyonce.com/ (Beyonce), https://www.michaeljackson.com/ (Michael Jackson), https://www.prince.com/ (Prince), https://www.wuhryndumas.com/ (Wuhryn Dumas), https://solange.blackplanet.com/ (Solange.) Wuhryn’s gateway track: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rmj4dXGkONg (2U). In the Key of Q composer Paul Leonidou’shttps://www.unstoppablemonsters.com/ ( online home). Please subscribe to the podcast, rate and review. And spread the word! You can find us onhttps://twitter.com/InTheKeyOfQ ( Twitter) andhttps://www.instagram.com/inthekeyofq/ ( Instagram) and join the community over onhttps://www.facebook.com/In-the-Key-of-Q-104781968301237 ( Facebook).
07-02-2022
13 mins
Brendan Maclean - Revisited
Brendan Maclean - Revisited
Featuring new material made public for the first time, LGBTQ singer Brendan Maclean discusses his five favourite songs plus the one track that he'd chosen as a gateway song into his catalogue. Series 2 of In the Key of Q will begin on 1 March 2022. Links: Show https://drive.google.com/file/d/1UJa77IXX5oW0mlEyOZcGhqtQjvYuV8Ce/view?usp=sharing (transcript). Brendan at https://brendanmaclean.bandcamp.com/ (Bandcamp), https://www.facebook.com/brendanmaclean (Facebook), https://twitter.com/macleanbrendan (Twitter), https://open.spotify.com/artist/7bFb3qT35kK9wSeZZ7pwCj?si=MB8r7dFpQQSScyCQ0FAthA&nd=1 (Spotify), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ZPzB7otCsw (YouTube). Brendan on https://www.patreon.com/macleanbrendan (Patreon). Brendan’s choices: https://rufuswainwright.com/ (Rufus Wainwright), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X9j_IreT5yI (Moloko), https://blonded.co/ (Frank Ocean), https://yearsandyears.com/ (Years and Years). Other references: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yuTMWgOduFM (Common People) (Pulp), http://www.champagnecharliemusic.co.uk/ (Champagne Charlie) (“Champagne!”), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ljchJv3PMs (Ode To a Gym Teacher.) Brendan’s Gateway Song, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1hww3n1cqnM (Stupid). In the Key of Q composer Paul Leonidou’shttps://www.unstoppablemonsters.com/ ( online home). Please subscribe to the podcast, rate and review. And spread the word! You can find us onhttps://twitter.com/InTheKeyOfQ ( Twitter) andhttps://www.instagram.com/inthekeyofq/ ( Instagram) and join the community over onhttps://www.facebook.com/In-the-Key-of-Q-104781968301237 ( Facebook).
31-01-2022
23 mins
SADBOY - Revisited
SADBOY - Revisited
Featuring new material made public for the first time, Hip-Hop artist SADBOY discusses his five favourite songs plus the one track that he'd chosen as a gateway song into his catalogue. Series 2 of In the Key of Q will begin on 1 March 2022. Links: SADBOY‘s forever home https://solo.to/saidthesadboy (online). Episode transctiption. SADBOY's artist choices: https://www.tinashenow.com/ (Tinashe), http://robyn.com/ (Robyn), https://www.lykkeli.com/ (Lykke Li), https://www.daftpunk.com/ (Daft Punk). SADBOY's chosen gateway track, https://open.spotify.com/track/3LGOWuW8B7Jtan7tDPhGRL?si=0256eabed8fc4348 (AM To PM). In the Key of Q composer Paul Leonidou’s https://www.unstoppablemonsters.com/ (online home). Please subscribe to the podcast, rate and review. And spread the word! You can find us on https://twitter.com/InTheKeyOfQ (Twitter) and https://www.instagram.com/inthekeyofq/ (Instagram) and join the community over on https://www.facebook.com/In-the-Key-of-Q-104781968301237 (Facebook).
24-01-2022
7 mins
Blake Mundel - Revisited
Blake Mundel - Revisited
Featuring new material made public for the first time, LGBTQ singer Blake Mundel (aka Courier) discusses his five favourite songs plus the one track that he'd chosen as a gateway song into his catalogue. Series 2 of In the Key of Q will begin on 1 March 2022. Links: Blake’s http://therealcourier.com/ (forever home) online. Show https://drive.google.com/file/d/1N5N66arp-CGvq7r-CbMLaFhWhTAxwrXT/view?usp=sharing (transcript). Blake (as Courier) and his video in which “https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=okGDwxRfnJY&t=100s (a black man can go out for a jog and make it home)”. https://www.casino.org/blog/top-10-gay-nfl-players/ (Inspirational gay NFL players) at Casino.org. Blake's chosen artists: https://www.beyonce.com/ (Beyonce), https://www.paulsimon.com/ (Paul Simon), https://music.sufjan.com/ (Sufjan), https://www.jamestaylor.com/ (James Taylor), https://www.chanceraps.com/ (Chance the Rapper) Blake's chosen song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4hWf8RstqjE (San Francisco). In the Key of Q composer Paul Leonidou’s https://www.unstoppablemonsters.com/ (online home). Please subscribe to the podcast, rate and review. And spread the word! You can find us on https://twitter.com/InTheKeyOfQ (Twitter) and https://www.instagram.com/inthekeyofq/ (Instagram) and join the community over on https://www.facebook.com/In-the-Key-of-Q-104781968301237 (Facebook).
17-01-2022
10 mins