‘Artists wine’ to commemorate show, benefit Pride

After chatting to both artists about influences, the topic shifts to what they’re personally listening to.

“I’ve been listening to my brother’s band, Deep Dark Blue, a lot lately,” Alber said.

“I’m super into vinyl right now, so I’m in throwback mode,” Steele said. “I’m listening to a lot of old Madonna, Michael Jackson, Annie Lennox, Culture Club, Erasure, etc. I am truly obsessed with Sara Bareilles. Sara and Adele truly inspire me to be a better writer and to be brave and to share my words. It takes a lot to put your heart out there. It’s so much easier just to interpret someone else’s lyrics because then you never have to let someone inside your own mind and heart.”

Inspiration for these two doesn’t only come in the form of other musicians. On the topic of LGBT heroes, both Alber and Steele can easily name those trailblazers that have won their admiration. Anne Steele recently performed alongside Cyndi Lauper and is on the brink of a nationwide solo tour and Matt Alber’s music has been featured in ‘The Fosters’ and ‘Bones.’ (Courtesy photos)

“Armistead Maupin,” Alber said. “His stories helped me find myself when I first moved to San Francisco. He and his partner, Chris, have become dear friends since then. Another hero of mine is Mel White. He wrote a book called ‘Stranger At The Gate’ about his experience as a gay man growing up in the Christian church. It changed my life and opened the door for me to accept and love myself.”

Steele went even closer to home with her answer.

“My wife, Kelli Carpenter, and her business partner, Gregg Kaminsky,” she said. “They started ‘R Family Vacations’ 14 years ago so that gay families could travel together without fear of being judged. Back when it started, the world was a much different place. It was incredible that the kids of gay couples could look around and see families just like theirs. It began as a charter cruise each year, but has since turned into a community. We have watched these children grow up together. Lifelong friendships have been made while taking their annual family vacation.”

Regarding her upcoming show in Atlanta, Steele said, “I have friends who live there. They have been begging me to come for so long. I can’t wait. Matt and I are thrilled to be able to help kick off Pride and to meet everyone!”

City Winery will sell a special bottle of “artists wine” at this event. It will feature Alber and Steele on the label. A portion of the proceeds are traditionally given to a nonprofit that the artist chooses. Alber and Steele asked that their wine proceeds be given to Atlanta Pride.

“We want to encourage everyone to buy the wine,” Steele said. “Not only will Matt and I sign it, but they will be giving back to Pride!”