Give thanks
There’s no place in James Barr’s home — or heart – for anyone dissing Ariana Grande
The guy I’m seeing just told me he isn’t that into Ariana Grande — is it over? Think of the arguments poor Alexa would fi nd herself in the middle of if we moved in together. Me: “Alexa, play Ariana Grande.” Him: Alexa, OFF!” Me: “Alexa: play JoJo, Leave ( Get Out).”
If I didn’t know any better I’d call this homophobia, although I once missed episode three of RuPaul’s Drag Race season six so I should probably have my gay card revoked, too.
Ariana’s being so 2019 about releasing new music and I love it! Her new album — released only six months after her previous outing — was written and produced in just two weeks, but it stuns. Where you at Beyoncé? And you, RiRi? thank u, next is so authentic and on trend it basically defi nes being a millennial, and, moreover, modern gay culture. Break Up With Your Girlfriend, I’m Bored, as well as Needy and NASA are huge stand outs, with the last of these describing that awkward “I like you but I want to be on my own tonight” phase at the start of a relationship. With low- key beats and high- key vocals, Ariana’s music is everything we need from our queen. My only request is a Break Up With Your Girlfriend remix featuring Troye Sivan. Thnx bby.
If there was a playlist called “I’m going through a break up, don’t trigger me,” Troye’s new team- up with Lauv would be right at the top of it. I’m So Tired is not actually about nap culture but it’s an anthem for all of us during a tough spot. Meanwhile, his tour mate Kim Petras just released a perfect trio of new singles: If U Think About Me is an adoring Eighties power ballad, 1,2,3 dayz up
( featuring Grammy Awardnominated avant- pop producer SOPHIE) is a cure for loneliness, and Homework vibes BBMak- style beats in a throw back to your fi rst love.
I once dated a guy who said he wanted a love that consumed him so hard he’d end up with a broken heart. Truth. Anyway, check out queer pop star Aaron Porter’s incredible new single, I Wanna Let Love. The track is about a harmful, heart- wrenching love, and is a powerful antidote to the feelings of shame and lack of self- worth that queer people often battle against.
When it comes to mental health, Selena
Gomez and Julia Michaels have just released possibly the most important song of a generation. If you’re currently experiencing an extended low or know someone who is, Anxiety perfectly describes both feelings of loneliness and the collective lack of understanding for mental- health issues in our society.
You’ll recognise Betty Who from the Queer Eye theme song All Things ( Just keep Getting Better), and our “not quite 100 per cent straight” sister just released her fabulous debut album Betty. Check out I Remember for a song that loves as hard as it bops.
Lastly this month, if you’re a gay of a certain age* you’ll defi nitely be excited for
Bananarama’s comeback! The Cruel Summer hit- makers’ fi rst studio album in 10 years, In Stereo, is a huge synth- sass Eighties dancefl oor revival. Dance Music, Intoxicated and Tonight totally earn these queens a place in your ears.
* No, it doesn’t make you old to love them. We’re all 29 on Grindr anyway.
“Ariana’s new album was written and produced in just two weeks”