SGN June 24, 2011 - Section 4

Seattle Gay News

Issue 25, Volume 39, June 24, 2011

Section 4 Music/Arts

“We are here today to defend love!”

Lady Gaga delivers passionate speech at Rome EuroPride

Lady Gaga delivered the fol- for equality and social justice lowing speech at EuroPride 2011 that would grow inside of me. in Rome on June 11: As I become closer to each and every one of you, through When I first embarked on my music, dance, art, fashion, artistic and musical journey and the celebration of our inas a young Italian-American dividuality, it became clear to woman, born of a full second- me that my greater mission is generation Italian family, to be a part of the joyous moStefani Joanna An- bilization of the LGBT comgelina German- munity around the world. otta, I did We fight for freedom, we not yet know fight for justice, we beckon the passion for compassion, understandand fervor ing, and above all, we want full equality. Now. I am angry – like many of you here today.

But we shall transform this Italian square into an electric chapel and exorcise our anger, baptize our pain, and stand here strong in the defense of love.

For some governments, Gay rights are not a political or social priority and the principles of non-discrimination are ambiguous. In my own country, the transparency of democracy, similarly, has become crowded and confused by political procedure. I find myself Googling and switching from channel to television channel, radio to print, just to reveal an iota of political truth. I want to see the see GAGA page 22

reuters

Lady Gaga at EuroPride 2011 in Rome, Italy, where the crowd estimate was 2.5 million

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Celebrating 38 Years!

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nic k lov ell

Jujubee

to R Place for Pride

by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor Drag queen sensation Jujubee just can’t get enough of Seattle.

Just months after her two sold-out performances at R Place (619 E. Pine St.), she is back to headline the popular bar’s Pride weekend – and her fans couldn’t be happier.

“My first time performing at R Place was so fun,” Jujubee told Seattle Gay News.

“The drag queens who perform in Lashes Cabaret with Lady Chablis are super talented and super sweet.”

Jujubee said the R Place bar staff and entertainers “made me feel like family when I arrived.”

As for the fans, she said, “The audience was one of the best I’ve ever performed for. They accepted my performances as art and saw my story. I can’t wait for this weekend!”

Jujubee skyrocketed to fame after her involvement

in season two of RuPaul’s Drag Race. Her constant passion for the art of drag carried her through to become a finalist in the competition – something she wouldn’t trade for the world. Her out-of-this-world lip-sync skills and enduring personality made her a fan favorite. She currently travels nationally and internationally, bringing her act to audiences around the globe.

“I can’t wait to see my Seattle friends and fans again,” she told SGN. “I had such an amazing time last time, and I can’t wait for that moment again. It was magical!”

Jujubee says she is going to bring it and that the crowd at R Place can expect to have fun. “It’s going to be Pride!” she said. “Pride is every day for me. It’s a feeling of unity and love.”

“See you guys this weekend!” she concluded.

Jujubee is scheduled to perform June 24-25 alongside Sonique (June 25) and Seattle’s very own Lady Chablis, Sharon Huzbenz, Eva Androgyny, Donatella Howe, Bianca Starr, La Saveona Hunt, Lily Armani, and Jenuwine Beaute. Doors open at 8 p.m. with a 9 p.m. showtime.

Tickets are available at www.brownpapertickets.com for $15 general admission, and $25 VIP. Welcome back, Jujubee!

to make Seattle debut Pride weekend

by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor

Seattle Gay News

June 24, 2011

eryone else thinks.’ My newfound happiness has drawn more people to me. They like the real me, and so do I.” Sonique said she has a message for her young fans who might feel the same way she did when she was a kid: “Hang in there. The time will come, and only you will know when that time is. Don’t rush into anything. Just make sure that you always accept who you are. You won’t find true happiness until you learn to love yourself.”

Love is what Sonique says she is preaching for Pride. “I want all of my fans to remember to love each other. No one is going anywhere, so we have to learn to appreciate each other,” she concluded. “Remember to love a bit more, and hate a lot less.”

Sonique is scheduled to perform at R Place on June 25-26 alongside Jujubee (June 25) and Seattle’s very own Lady Chablis, Eva Androgyny, Lily Armani, and Jenuwine Beaute. Doors open at 8 p.m. with a 9 p.m. showtime. Tickets are available at www. brownpapertickets.com for $15 general admission, and $25 V.I.P.

Sonique

logo

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Sonique, from the second season of RuPaul’s Drag Race, will make her Seattle debut at R Place (619 E. Pine St.) on Pride weekend.

Sonique, who lives in Irvine, California, told Seattle Gay News that she is “really excited to come and visit the city.”

The drag queen who stole America’s hearts when she announced on the RuPaul’s Drag Race reunion episode that she was Transgender, said her scheduled R Place Pride performance will be “fun, energetic, and sexy.”

“I put my all into everything that I do, and that includes my performances,” she told SGN. “The show will definitely be high-energy.”

Sonique says that when it comes to song selection, she performs songs that people can relate to.

Speaking of music, she says her taste in music is “all over the board. I listen to everything.” Currently on rotation is Beth Ditto (Gossip), Pink, Nicki Minaj, and Wish, a new singer Sonique described as a “cunt bitchy dancer” artist.

The drag superstar said she is honored to perform at R Place during Seattle Pride, but also encourages people to remain proud for the weeks and months

following the annual celebration. “Pride isn’t one day or weekend, but it is something you should be proud of 365 days out of the year,” she told SGN. “Pride celebrations are a chance for everyone to be happy with themselves. The parades and festivals show people who are not LGBT they can have an open heart and mind because we all love each other and have a good time.”

Sonique knows a thing or two about selfacceptance and love. Her announcement on RuPaul’s Drag Race seemed to shock everyone but her. “I have known that I wasn’t meant to be a boy my whole life,” she told SGN. “When I was little and people told me I was a boy, I knew that was wrong. I realized who I was meant to be when I was very young.”

She said it wasn’t until two years ago that she decided, “Hey, this is my chance to do it – to become who I really am.” She realized she was mature enough to handle the commitment to make the transformation.

“It is a real thing, you know, a real commitment,” said Sonique. “You’ve got to see the doctor, take meds … it’s like a baby, you have to take care of it so it turns out right.”

“I am a much happier person now, I can tell you that much,” she continued. “For the longest time, I lived my whole life trying to make everyone happy – which made me very unhappy. I never felt more alive until I accepted myself and said, ‘Screw what ev-

Celebrating 38 Years!

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by Albert Rodriguez SGN A&E Writer Cool off at one of many sizzling live shows this summer, both outdoor and indoor. Here are fifteen of them to keep in mind.

Olympic Music Festival June 25-September 4, Quilcene Chamber music in the woods is exactly what this nearby, homegrown festival is all about. Extending from late June to Labor Day weekend, this summertime event takes place amidst fruit orchards, berry patches, horse stables, and green meadows. Among this year’s performers are Paul Hersh, Daniel Montenegro, Hamilton Berry, Jeffrey Fair, and the Mosaic Brass Quintet. Visit www.olympicmusicfestival.org for ticket information.

Britney Spears June 29, Tacoma Dome I do admire those who never give up, and Britney Spears is such a person. She crumbled from the very top into an almostbottomless pit – shaved head, custody battles, running people over – but despite harsh criticism and becoming a

media laughingstock, Brit Brit motored through. On her second tour in three years, the Gay-admired star is already wowing fans with a concert that’s said to be glitzy and action-packed (the intro is super cool). Aside from her current smash “Hold It Against Me,” the pop queen will likely perform “Toxic,” “...

Baby One More Time,” “Womanizer,” “I’m a Slave 4 U,” and “Oops!...I Did It Again.”

Show openers include the unpredictable Nicki Minaj. Visit www.livenation.com for ticket information.

Eddie Vedder July 15-16, Benaroya Hall Expanding his horizons (again), Eddie Vedder is determined to be something other than a grunge rock star. The Seattle-based artist, who scored the impressive soundtrack for Into the Wild, just released another solo work, Ukulele Songs. It debuted at #4 on Billboard’s albums chart, signaling a strong fan base outside of Pearl Jam – furthermore, both performances at Benaroya Hall in July are totally sold out. Vedder will probably stick very close to Ukulele Songs for his upcoming back-to-back concerts, but don’t count out the possibility of a PJ tune during his set – after all, aren’t you just dying to hear “Spin the Black Circle” strummed on that miniature instru-

ment?

Oscar winner Glen Hansard (Once Again) is the supporting act for each night. Both shows are sold out.

Katy Perry July 20, Key Arena From kissing girls to kissing aliens, Katy Perry’s career just keeps going higher.

The only thing missing is that Grammy should’ve won for “Teenage Dream” (next year for sure, Katy!). Perry hasn’t visited Seattle since an afternoon appearance at Bumbershoot a few years back, where she tossed a giant, air-filled strawberry out to the crowd. Who knows what she’ll do at Key Arena next month, but one thing’s guaranteed: She’s got a lot more ear-candy in her purse to entertain us with, including “Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.),” “Firework,” and the infectious “E.T.” Visit www.livenation. org for ticket information.

Alison Krauss + Union Station featuring Jerry Douglas July 8, Marymoor Park Even if you don’t like country music, an exception must be made for bluegrass extraordinaire Alison Krauss. The winningest female artist in Grammy history, her voice is strong and angelic with a high-pitched trill that would scare away the birds if she didn’t know how to use it as a true instrument. Case in point: “My Poor Old Heart,” or a cover of “The Boxer” with James Taylor or Shawn Colvin. The Decatur, Illinois-born violinist-singer-songwriter recently collaborated with Led Zeppelin frontman Robert Plant on the album Raising Sand, but she’s Jamie Foxx back in the saddle with her longtime cohorts July 22, Union Station, and together with bluegrass Tulalip Amphitheatre pioneer Jerry Douglas, they’re going to Multi-tasking should be Jamie Foxx’s pluck and fiddle away at Marymoor Park middle name. When he isn’t starring in a until the cows come waltzing home. Visit Hollywood blockbuster, he’s recording a www.livenation.com for ticket information.

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Loretta Lynn August 14, Snoqualmie Casino Legendary country star Loretta Lynn hasn’t performed in the Seattle area since 2001, with the exception of a stray county fair somewhere. The original “Coal Miner’s Daughter” has enjoyed a second wind, thanks to alt-rock badass Jack White, who produced the icon’s Grammy-winning alSoundgarden bum Van Lear Rose (he also dueted with July 30, her on the track “Portland, Oregon”). UnThe Gorge Amphitheatre I wasn’t there when Jesus walked on wa- less you have tickets for that other big show ter, but it’s possible that Soundgarden’s re- on the same night (Sade at Key Arena), how union an- could you possibly miss an appearance by country royalty Loretta Lynn? Snoqualmie Casino is about a 40-minute drive from downtown Seattle. Visit www.snocasino.com for ticket information.

new album, or he’s inspiring an entire episode of Glee (“Blame it on the Alcohol,” season two). The Oscar- and Grammywinner will no doubt bring the house down, even if the house is outside and 35 minutes from Seattle, with a show that’ll sizzle with excitement. Visit www.tulalipcasino.com for ticket information.

Sade August 14, Key Arena Ten long years have passed since Sade graced us with

nouncement equaled that level of amazement and jubilation. The Seattle group exploded to international acclaim in the early ’90s, thanks partly to a grunge boom which also put Nirvana and Pearl Jam on the map. Frontman Chris Cornell, who graciously offered himself to Seattle Gay News for a pair of interviews (I wish he’d offered more than that), is a triple live threat, selling out concerts as a solo artist and member of both Soundgarden and Audioslave. “Black Hole Sun,” “Spoonman,” and “Outshined” against a backdrop of the Columbia River canyon? Get that cooler ready now! Queens of the Stone Age and Mastodon are two of the opening acts.

Visit www.livenation.com for ticket information.

their presence. Sade is a band fronted by the gorgeous, silky-voiced Sade Adu. It was 1984 when the group dropped their debut single, “Smooth Operator,” and followed with a string of R&B/light jazz hits that include “The Sweetest Taboo,” “Never as Good as the First Time,” “No Ordinary Love,” “Kiss of Life,” and “Soldier of Love.” Sade doesn’t tour often – hence the 10-year gap – so catch them before another long break. Sexy singer-songwriter John Legend opens the show.

Visit www.livenation.com for ticket information.

The Go-Gos August 14, Woodland Park Zoo One of music’s most successful all-female acts, The Go-Gos are back in action with a national tour celebrating their 30th anniversary. Fans enthusiastically welcomed their return, snatching up every last ticket for the pop band’s ZooTunes appearance in midAugust, knowing that a mix of sunshine, BYOP (bring your own picnic), and ’80s hits like “We Got the Beat,” “Vacation,” “Head Over Heels,” “Our Lips Are Sealed,” and lead singer Belinda Carlisle’s own “Heaven Is a Place on Earth,” makes for irresistible k.d. lang fun. This is the original Go-Gos lineup August 10, (Carlisle, Jane Wiedlin, Kathy Valentine, Woodland Park Zoo Country maverick turned pop chanteuse, Gina Schock, and Charlotte Caffey) in case k.d. lang is just plain brilliant. Her latest CD, you were wondering. This show is sold out.

Say It Loud (with backup band Siss Boom Carolina Chocolate Drops Bang) is another example of how far ahead August 17, of the field she is and how marvelous that Woodland Park Zoo voice still sounds. lang will surely introduce Carolina Chocolate who? Drops. This tracks from the new album at the sold-out ZooTunes concert, but you’re correct to as- adventurous folk trio deservedly won their sume that she’ll also perform “Constant first Grammy Award in March for their deCraving” and “Hallelujah.” Keep those fin- but Genuine Negro Jig, an album of intergers crossed for “Luck in My Eyes.” This esting and smartly-reinterpreted material, like a Southern-fried version of Blu Cantshow is sold out.

Celebrating 38 Years!

rell’s “Hit ‘Em Up Style.” Even better are the tracks “Cornbread and Butterbeans,” “Kissin’ and Cussin’,” and “Sandy Boys.”

If you’re looking for something entirely different than what you hear on the radio, these young, talented African-American musicians playing old-time jigs will surely put on a show for you. Visit www.zoo.org for ticket information.

merman transforms immediately into the globe-trotting DJ and electronic wiz kid Deadmau5. His newest collection of househeavy tracks is 4 x 4 = 12, which finds him slightly experimenting with fresh sounds but otherwise keeping that deep-bass, turbo-paced style, especially on the tracks “A City in Florida,” “Bad Selection,” “Everything Before,” and the previously released “Some Chords.” Deadmau5 packed ‘em Deadmau5 in last October at the Paramount, and he’s August 18, gonna do it again in August. Sweatbands Paramount Theatre recommended. Visit www.stgpresents.org You’d never notice Joel Thomas Zimmer- for ticket information. man walking down the street, although he’s pretty well-known around the world. With Janet Jackson his trademark mouse-head piece, ZimAugust 29, McCaw Hall

The last time Janet Jackson played in Seattle was at Key Arena, and my nosebleed seat afforded me a decent view of this R&B superstar working that stage from side to side, back and forth – she was all over the place, so much that I was exhausted just watching her. This time the stage is much smaller, providing fans with a rare opportunity to see Miss Janet (if you’re nasty) perform hits spanning nearly three decades including “If,” “Rhythm Nation,” “Miss You Much,” “Escapade,” “That’s the Way Love Goes,” “All Nite (Don’t Stop),” “The Pleasure Principle,” and her signature single, “What Have You Done for Me Lately?” Visit www.ticketmaster.com for ticket information.

Bumbershoot Music and Arts Festival September 3-5, Seattle Center The 2011 lineup for Bumbershoot is rather eclectic, ranging from soul veteran Mavis Staples to hip-hop star Big Boi, from Americana folk unit Ray LaMontagne & the Pariah Dogs to ’80s pop duo Daryl Hall and John Oates, and from world music artist Vusi Mahlasela to rising indie band Warpaint. Kudos to the organizing committee for moving the main stage back to Key Arena and relocating the comedy acts to a bigger venue, and most of all, thanks for keeping it diverse. Visit www.bumbershoot. org for ticket information.

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by Albert Rodriguez, Shaun Knittel, and Jessica Price SGN Writers Hosting a Pride bash this year? The Seattle Gay News music team thought long and hard to come up with the perfect soundtrack for the occasion: a list of the Gayest Songs Ever! Yes, as annoying as some of these have become – mainly because the straights have overtaken them for gym workouts and karaoke warblings – we can’t help but include them as part of our Gay culture. After all, some of these tunes can be credited for bursting those closet doors wide open. Here’s our list of 25 not-so-hetero songs we’ve ever laid an ear to.

1) Dancing Queen – ABBA Not only is this a dancefloor staple from the old days at the Timberline (RIP Timberline), it’s a classic and dreamy song made even more memorable by being forever entwined with the film Muriel’s Wedding, not to mention the musical Mamma Mia! ABBA made history over and over with “Dancing Queen.” J. Price 2) And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going (from Dreamgirls) – Jennifer Holliday 3) Copacabana – Barry Manilow 4) We Are Family – Sister Sledge This Gay chestnut shows up everywhere, from aerobics workouts to bachelorette parties to the final scene of that ’90s hoot The Birdcage, where Gene Hackman is fully garbed in women’s clothing. And it gets worse! As the token Gay guy in a wedding party, the duty fell on me to get everybody on the dance floor as this song was played.

Um, thank you, Sister Sledge? A. Rodriguez

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Seattle Gay News

5) Somewhere Over the Rainbow – Judy Garland 6) Finally – CeCe Peniston 7) It’s Raining Men – The Weathergirls There is just no way around it: “It’s Raining Men” is a song that will forever be a Gay anthem. We sing it in the shower, perform it at karaoke, and play it in the bars. We’ve remixed it, danced to it, and just plain loved it year after fabulous year. “It’s Raining Men” is, and always will be, a song that belongs to our community. S. Knittel 8) I’m Coming Out – Diana Ross 9) I Will Survive – Gloria Gaynor 10) Vogue – Madonna I can’t remember the first time I heard “Vogue” exactly, because by 1990 when the song was released Madonna was so deeply ingrained into my life (and the lives of my Gay best friends) that every day was just one long Madonna worship-fest.

After all, Madonna was in her absolute prime at that time, with Truth or Dare and the albums Like a Prayer, I’m Breathless, and The Immaculate Collection charting all over the planet. By day, we worked at a salon and played Madonna all day long, and by night we’d hit the clubs and dance like we were possessed by the brash and beautiful spirit of The Material Girl herself.

“Vogue” was the crown jewel of a glorious era in Madonna fandom. J. Price 11) Believe – Cher 12) Supermodel (You Better Work) – RuPaul 13) Macho Man / YMCA – Village People Maybe I was naive, but I saw nothing Gay about a policeman, cowboy, Indian, and … plumber, was it? dancing on stage together and belting out ridiculous lyrics. But when I saw the Village People in the drastic musical Can’t Stop the Music, it all came to light: These guys were flaming homos. While “Macho Man” is probably too risqué to play at Major League baseball games, “YMCA” can be heard even at fraternity toga parties (and don’t ask me how I know). This song is the gift that keeps on giving. A. Rodriguez

June 24, 2011

14) I Kissed a Girl – Katy Perry 15) Hot Stuff / Last Dance – Donna Summer 16) I’m Still Standing – Elton John What isn’t Gay about Elton John? It should come as no surprise that Sir Elton has a ton of Gay anthems, but it was this 1980s classic that is still a Gay ol’ time even today! The song was adopted by many Gay men living with HIV/AIDS as they sing out in a collective voice that they are, indeed, still standing. S. Knittel

17) Beautiful – Christina Aguilera 18) Michael – Franz Ferdinand 19) Freedom ’90 – George Michael “Freedom ‘90” was an international

coming-out anthem predating “Born This Way” and many other modern classics. Not only did the song address being closeted and liberated in a personal and professional way, but George Michael made the ultimate statement by refusing to be a pretty face in the video. Instead, he called on the biggest supermodels in the universe (Naomi Campbell, Linda Evangelista, Cindy Crawford, Christy Turlington, and Tatjana Patitz) to make the statement for him in a joyous and awe-inspiring video. Perfection. J. Price 20) Born This Way – Lady GaGa 21) Chains of Love – Erasure 22) Lola – The Kinks Growing up in a strict, religious family, there were songs and artists banned in our house – devil’s music, my mom called it. When my oldest brother announced that this signature Kinks track was about an encounter between a guy and a transvestite, well, I got in trouble for just listening to it on the radio (a whack to the head – thanks, dad!). Funny thing, no one even bothered to tell me what a transvestite was! A. Rodriguez 23) I’ve Never Been to Me – Charlene 24) Barbie Girl – Aqua 25) Same Thing in Reverse / The Crying Game – Boy George This drag queen turned pop star reigned supreme as the front man for Culture Club, one of the biggest bands of the 1980s.

But it wasn’t until after Boy George’s very public battle with drug abuse and his officially coming out as Gay that his music mirrored his personal life. The first song, “The Crying Game” (featured in a movie about a Transgender woman) became an instant Gay classic. “Same Thing in Reverse,” from George’s solo album Cheapness and Beauty, is an ode to same-sex relationships – which are the same thing, in reverse, as heterosexual relationships. Boy George continues to make music in some form or another and has reinvented himself as a DJ, but it’s songs like “The Crying Game” and “Cheapness and Beauty” that remain forever embedded in the Gay psyche. S. Knittel

Celebrating 38 Years!

L.A. DJs Perry Twins set to rock Purr Pride 2011

by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor

hank du jour

The Los Angeles-based DJs/producers The Perry Twins are set to headline Purr Cocktail Lounge’s (1518 11th Ave.) Celebrate the Rainbow Pride 2011 block party.

The twin DJs have worked with some of music’s hottest artists and anticipate their return to the Emerald City and Purr.

“We’ve loved spinning at Purr, and can’t wait for this year’s party,” Doug Perry told Seattle Gay News. “[Purr owner] Barbie [Humphrey] is such a great person, and it is so much fun seeing friends from the Pacific Northwest come out and party with us.”

Derek Perry agreed with his brother and added, “Seattle is such a terrific place to visit.”

“We have a good time whenever we are in town, and we hope to finally make it up the Space Needle on this trip,” he said. “It’s cool to hear that the Space Needle will be flying the Pride flag again this year.”

The Perry Twins have recently released a mixed compilation on the Centaur label called Global Groove: Dance 4. Their new single “We’ll Never Know” features another Seattle Pride favorite, Abigail, on vocals.

Donna Summer, Kristine W, and Chris Willis are among other artists who contributed to the album. The twins also celebrated the one-year anniversary of their online radio station, www.perrytwinsradio.com.

The Perry Twins are scheduled to DJ during the Purr party on June 25.

“Seattle can expect to dance the night away, ‘cause we’ll be playing some of the favorites we know the fans have liked the past couple of years, plus some fresh songs,

including our newest remix we just completed for Beyoncé’s latest single, ‘Best I Never Had,’” said Doug. “It will make its debut this weekend.”

The Purr Cocktail Lounge Pride celebrations take place throughout the week, but on the weekend, Purr becomes a whole different animal. In a word, Purr Pride parties are epic. DJ Freddy King of Pants is scheduled to spin June 24.

The Block Party begins at noon on June 25 with DJ Skiddle, followed

by The Perry Twins. On Pride Sunday, Barbie and crew offer a cover-free Pride party.

The Perry Twins say they love working Pride celebrations.

“I remember performing at a Pride festival back east for the first time years ago, and it was so cool to see everyone come together and be in an accepting, unifying environment,” said Derek.

“That’s what I like to think about every time we are in a city where it’s Pride time.”

For Doug, Pride is a time when people should look within. “Be proud of who you are,” he told SGN. “No matter what you may think others are feeling, just be proud and believe in you.”

“We are looking forward to seeing Seattle Gay News readers at Purr this weekend,” said Derek.

The Perry Twins

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Transgender frontwoman dishes on Trans artists and how to make dance music personal

by Lawrence Ferber Special to the SGN Spun out in 2008 from funk-disco outfit Hercules and Love Affair (best known for ’70s-flavored dancefloor grooves like “Blind” and “You Belong”), Brooklynbased trio Jessica 6 fuses the latter’s retro booty-shaking Paradise Garage sensibility with 21st-century synth-soaked nu-disco and a sweet spritz of R&B. Taking their name from the Logan’s Run character, Jessica 6 – composed of bassist Andrew Raposo, keyboard/electronics maestro Morgan Wiley, and Transgender vocalist/frontwoman Nomi Ruiz – released their debut full-length album, See The Light (Peace Frog), on June 7, while the utterly addictive “Prisoner of Love” track, currently accessible on a number of music blogs, features a duet with fellow Hercules vocalist Antony Hegarty (of Antony and the Johnsons).

Born and raised in Brooklyn’s Sunset Park neighborhood, Ruiz first struck out as a solo artist – simply as Nomi – with the 2005 album, Lost in Lust (available on iTunes). By 2009, Jessica 6 released their first single, “Fun Girl.” In addition to her appearances with Hercules, Ruiz also guested on The Ones’ 2010 single, “Let’s Celebrate.” Here she dishes about the band, Lady Gaga, and an emerging wave of Transgender musicians.

Lawrence Ferber: “Prisoner of Love” is such an awesome song. It’s like the Boy George pop dance anthem we’ve been waiting for. What was working on it with Antony like?

Nomi Ruiz: I actually had to push Antony a bit, because Antony heard the demo and said, ‘The song sounds great as it is, I don’t want to ruin it with my warbly voice.” I was like, “What, are you kidding me? Try it out! If it doesn’t work, we won’t use it.”

It’s funny how Antony was one of my biggest mentors and inspirations, and seeing a little bit of the shyness there. But then at the end, he was like, “Wow, that really worked. You pushed me to do it.”

Ferber: How does Jessica 6 differ most from Hercules and Love Affair? And, conversely, what’s the common

thread?

Ruiz: We didn’t think too much while we were doing this Jessica 6 record. We didn’t focus on a specific sound. We started continuing in the vein of dance music – I really wanted to do something that I could still connect with the same fans [as Hercules] because they really supported me during that tour. And we also have Antony. But Hercules is more consistent in its sound and this goes all over the place a little bit. For me it’s also more personal – I wrote all the lyrics, so I got to really tell my story for the first time.

Ferber: Give me an example of a deeply personal song.

Ruiz: “Blessed Mother,” which I wrote a long time ago, before I was in Hercules. I brought it to the studio and we made it this Bladerunner ballad. I remember writing it during a really melancholic, depressed time.

I was in a relationship that was being really repetitive – there’s a lyric, “Seasons change and you remain the same.” And as an artist sometimes you get really discouraged and everything in your life piles up on top of that and you get overwhelmed and feel like giving up. So it was nice to finally put that out and get rid of that part of my past.

Ferber: Did any tracks not make it onto the album?

Ruiz: Yeah, we had some extras. One B-side we put on the “White Horse” single called “Pressed,” and then we have a deluxe album package that has another bonus track called “Even the Heartless.” We have a month off from touring so we’re going to work on an EP to put out, too. We create all the time.

Ferber: Which artists influenced you most growing up?

Ruiz: Growing up, I listened to a lot of Mary J. Blige, Faith Evans – I learned a lot about harmony from her, she has a great sense of harmony and I’m drawn to that. Sade.

Lauren Hill. I love when you can actually hear the story in what they’re singing.

They really influenced me.

And Donny Hathaway and Nina Simone.

Ferber: Your bio mentions that Michael and Janet Jackson were huge influences, which you can definitely hear in the track “Good to Go” and much of your solo album.

Ruiz: I love the Jacksons. But I really, really was drawn to Janet. When I was younger I wanted to be a choreographer as well and I was obsessed with her. I would memorize all of her dances and get my friends together, like we have to learn this dance, and have these little rehearsals in my living room.

Ferber: In late 2010 there was a report addressing how Transgender people are really in bad shape as far as discrimination and health-care access, yet at the same time we’re seeing an emergence of incredibly talented Trans-identified and gender-bending artists, including Antony and Justin Bond.

What do you make of this moment in the culture?

Ruiz: Well, I think all the work we’ve been doing for so long … you start growing a fan base and finally we have enough to actually help get our voices heard. It’s really cool. I feel blessed to have people support me in that way and realize past all the labels and stuff that they’re getting to the talent.

Ferber: Is there also something the bond of sisterhood with these other artists brings to the creative process?

Ruiz: It definitely helps me, strengthwise. Like I was saying before, lots of times I felt discouraged and of course it’s harder for Trans people in the industry. So having other people around

10 Seattle Gay News

June 24, 2011

hires

Nomi Ruiz (center) with Jessica 6

doing the same thing and not giving up makes me stronger. The more we work and keep going is important – we’re on the back of the bus still, but the bus is pulling up.

Ferber: Does Lady Gaga get your love?

Ruiz: Yes, of course! I haven’t really bought any of her music, but I love what she stands for. She doesn’t have to do that.

Obviously it’s a choice and it’s important, especially for the youth. Sometimes I feel disconnected from the Gay and Trans youth and because she’s within the pop realm that reaches that age range, I think those kids, moving forward, will be more confident and stronger than we were before.

Ferber: Did you love working with The Ones? They were club kids and drag queens during the early 1990s and have done so well as a band.

Ruiz: They’re so fun. We worked at Patricia Field together, actually. I remember when they came out with “Flawless.”

It was a super cool moment for everyone there to see someone succeed in that way.

Ferber: Did you meet any of the Sex and the City stars while working at Patricia Field?

Ruiz: No. I met lots of other starlets, but not them. That was crazy. Tour buses would come, the Sex and the City tour bus, and they would let off all these women from Middle America, and it was so funny because we weren’t used to that kind of shopper in the store. And these middle-aged women would buy Carrie necklaces and harass us because everyone there, like Richie Rich and Sophia Lamar, is so not Middle America.

Like, leave us alone!

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Seattle Gay News 11

Porn stars – more sexy Kimberly Caldwell surprises at R Place Pride sings with Pride

by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor

by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor

by Chi Chi LaRue, became an overnight superstar and gained a large following after his first movie, Steven Daigle: XXXPosed, became the most-rented porn title of the year. Now he’s got a dildo modeled after him and a number of films under his belt.

Matthews has yet to meet or work with Clark, and is looking forward to that experience in Seattle. Clark, who has worked in the business for over two years and is a Washington-based star, started his porn career at CockyBoys and has since worked for Buckshot, Falcon, Suite 703, and Bel Ami. Matthews told SGN that he and the boys will perform something “interesting, artistic, and sexual all rolled into one.”

Gay Pride means something different to everyone. For Matthews, it is time to celebrate the LGBT community as a whole. “To me, besides partying, Pride is a celebration of who we are as a community,” he said. “It is nice that major metropolitan cities take a weekend off to celebrate Pride and embrace us. Pride is a time to show people what we are all about.”

For a hot time during Pride weekend, join the porn stars at R Place!

continued on NEXT PAGE

Kimberly Caldwell

vanguard records

The boys at R Place just turned it up a notch with not one, not two, not three, but four porn stars for your Pride weekend viewing pleasure.

To augment their already stellar lineup of entertainment, drink specials, and DJs, R Place management is proud to bring you the sexual, hot, and sizzling JR Matthews, Bobby Clark, Preston Steel, and Jimmy Durano.

Matthews, who has filmed with Titan, Hothouse, Falcon, and Michael Lucas, said he is looking forward to his Seattle debut at R Place Pride weekend. “I live in San Francisco,” he said, “so I’m looking forward to another Pride celebration. I’ve done SF Pride for eight years, so it is time for a change.”

Matthews is close with the self-described “go-go dancer, adult film actor, and good ol’ boy from the South” Preston Steel, and Seattle’s very own Jimmy Durano.

Durano, who was discovered in Seattle and works for Channel 1 Releasing, owned

file photos

(l to r) Bobby Clark, JR Matthews, Preston Steel, and Jimmy Durano

Recording artist and American Idol alum Kimberly Caldwell is scheduled to headline the Neighbours Seattle (1509 Broadway) Pink Pride Party on June 24. Kimberly is riding high on her recent album release Without Regret and says she is looking forward to singing for her Seattle fans.

“I’ve performed in Seattle a few times,” Kimberly told Seattle Gay News, “once when I was on the American Idol tour and for a few other events over the years.”

The self-described “huge Grey’s Anatomy fan” said, “Seattle is a great city!”

Perhaps best known as a secondseason contestant on Idol, Caldwell struck a chord with millions of the show’s viewers thanks to her gutsy vocals, passionate performances, and earthy charisma. On Without Regret, she wields her full-throttle belt to maximum effect on a series of emotionally resonant, pop-

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Celebrating 38 Years!

inflected rock songs, several of which she co-wrote.

“For my Pride performance at Neighbours, I will be singing original songs from my album,” she said, “and I’ll be singing some of my favorite cover songs by my idols, Melissa Etheridge and Joan Jett.”

Kimberly says she grew up listening to country music, so artists like Reba and The Judds played a big part in who she is today.

She also named Pat Benatar, Annie Lennox,

and Bonnie Raitt as influential artists in her life.

“Of course, like everyone else on the planet, I am obsessed with Adele and love that she’s a real vocalist receiving well-deserved success,” she said. “Girl power!”

After Kimberly wraps up her nationwide radio tour for the new album, she will go on to host VH1’s Rock and Roll Fantasy Camp.

She just returned to the states from Singapore, where she performed with Paula Ab-

dul for the grand opening of Universal Studios. “I’m doing a lot of traveling and performing and I’m very excited to see where this road leads me.”

Although Kimberly says she loves all of her fans, her LGBT fan base holds a special place in her heart. “The Gay community has always been so loyal and supportive of me, and I will always be loyal and supportive of them,” she told SGN. “The Gay audiences always know how to make me feel special

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and I thank them so much for their love.”

For Kimberly, Pride is personal. “I have a lot of close people that are openly Gay in my life – like my sister, cousins, and friends – and I am extremely proud of them for owning who they are,” said Kimberly. “Pride represents all of the people who accept that and opens up the minds of all the people who don’t. I will forever celebrate Pride and hope to be performing at these events for many years to come. Go equality!”

“As your therapist, it is my priority to work with you through your pain, and bring empathy, knowledge, respect and hope to our time together.”

Jarred Lathrop-Weber MA, LMHCA, MHP 253-906-8738 June 24, 2011

Seattle Gay News 13

by Albert Rodriguez SGN A&E Writer Some little boys dream of being a fireman, a football quarterback, or a doctor.

Others, like myself, grew up wanting to be Stevie Nicks. I’m not sure we wanted to be women, or eventual drag queens.

We just wanted to be Stevie Nicks.

As a frontwoman for colossal pop-rock band Fleetwood Mac, she was cool and mysterious, beautiful and strong, captivating and addictive – qualities that perhaps we, as Gay men and women, might someday hope to acquire.

Nicks spoke with six handpicked LGBT writers from across the country just before flying out to London to rejoin Rod Stewart on the final leg of their collaborative tour. It came as no surprise to her that she has a loyal Gay following, but she didn’t immediately understand how deep our dedication goes.

“I don’t remember who told me,” said Nicks, “but somebody said, ‘Did you know that there is this big major party that goes on every year in New York that’s called The Night of 1,000 Stevies?’ And I’m going, ‘What?’ That’s, what, 20 years ago? So that was when I realized that my music was really appealing to all my Gay fans. It is still going on. So I’m thrilled.”

Further signs of Nicks’ ongoing popularity are evident. Glee wrapped a complete episode around the classic Rumours album, and prior to that, the complications of a Bisexual-Lesbian relationship surfaced during a heartbreaking version of “Landslide.”

“First of all, I had been watching Glee from the very beginning,” stated Nicks enthusiastically. “So when I found out that they were doing ‘Landslide’ and that Gwyneth Paltrow was going to come in and play her Holly Holiday character and she was going to sing it and Santana and Brittany were going to sing with her, I was just so knocked out.”

When asked whether she supported the two female characters engaging in something more than friendship, Nicks replied, “I want them to be happy, whoever they are with. If that is going to be Santana and Brittany, then I am thrilled. If that is going to be Artie and Brittany, then I am thrilled.”

Not only is Nicks a selfprofessed “Gleek,” she’s

also the first artist ever to attend a taping of the program and the first ever to thank the cast members personally.

“I sent them huge flowers,” remarked the 63 year-old musician. “And then when they did the Rumours thing … what a favor they did for me by putting that out the same day that my record came out. I thought that was, like, so lovely of them. So I sent more flowers to my Glee children.”

Nicks freely admits to being a TV buff, though she also stays up-to-date on the pop music scene. When I asked how she felt about three current pop divas – Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, and Pink – Nicks was quick to respond. “I love Katy Perry,” she exclaimed.

“She is very eclectic and interesting. And I think she is a really good songwriter, so that makes me like her even more. Her ‘E.T.’ song, the ‘k-k-kiss me’ one, I love. I just love it!”

She continued with Lady Gaga. “I really like Lady Gaga because I think that she is a girl with a plan. I’ve seen her, I’ve watched her put her plan together and really work that plan. She is very much a performance artist, like Elton John is.”

Regarding Pink, Nicks said, “I love her to death. I ran into her when she was taking the trapeze lessons. And you know, she was into it. She was like, ‘I’m going to be good at this. I’m not only going to hang upside down and sing, but I’m going to be really good at it.’ And I’m like, ‘My hat is off to you!’”

The music video for the leadoff single, “Secret Love,” from Nicks’ newest album In Your Dreams, finds the rock goddess reflecting on her life and career through a girl playing an assumed younger version of herself. While the Phoenix-born legend has achieved what many aspiring artists can only wish for, she humbly recalled those tough early days.

“My life had changed overnight from being a totally cool waitress and a pretty damned cool cleaning lady … to making enough money to support Lindsey [Buckingham] and all our friends, basically. It was

fun. We were poor. But it was brilliant.”

Nicks attributes her survival to the fact that she never quits. “I do not walk away in the face of adversity and never have,” she firmly said. “I also don’t listen to people who don’t think I’m right about my music. I actually don’t listen to people about anything.”

In a dose of girl power that gave Nicks additional strength, she combined forces with Fleetwood Mac’s former member Christine McVie to combat the boys’ club atmosphere.

“Christine and I realized that because there were two of us we really were a force of nature, and that we were never going to be treated like second-class citizens in the rock-and-roll business.”

“That’s why when Chris left it was very hard for me, because as the two of us, we were so strong. I missed her terribly because

of that,” she added.

I didn’t let the opportunity to talk about Gay Pride slip away, and asked Nicks if she had any fond memories of ever attending a Pride parade or being a participant.

“You know, I haven’t,” she replied after a brief pause. “I haven’t ever attended, and I have not ever been a participant. I’m totally sorry. I don’t know why that has never happened.”

This opened the door for an invitation to attend Seattle Pride, and Nicks gladly accepted. “Absolutely! An invitation is fantastic. I appreciate that.”

WBR

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June 24, 2011

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Seattle Gay News 15

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16 Seattle Gay News

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Celebrating 38 Years!

cour tesy menm agaz ine.c om

Chris Rockway

be his debut performance in Seattle. “I’m so excited to see what the city is like,” he told Seattle Gay News.

Gay club-goers love their liquor, drag queens, and men. Neighbours Seattle has got three of the hottest porn stars around, and they promise to give you a show you won’t soon forget. “‘Dance’ is a soft way to describe awkward gyrations,” joked Rockway, who says he intends to bring a hot, fun time this weekend.

Micah Brandt, a Washington native and Randy Blue model, will join Rockway on stage Pride weekend. The two have filmed porn scenes together.

“I’m really excited about the new projects with Randyblue.com,” said the six-year veteran of the Gay porn industry. “I love what I do. I’ve had so much fun and I’ve met some of my best friends through porn.”

Travis James, who has worked on many films for Randy Blue, rounds out the trio nicely as they plan to make Pride at Neighbours Seattle a dream come true for their fans.

“For me, Gay Pride mean being able to express who you are – not for just one day, but your entire lifetime,” he told SGN. “Be you and be proud.”

A Randy Blue porn trio at Neighbours Seattle for Pride weekend

by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor

to bring three of its hottest porn stars for Pride weekend.

Chris Rockway will join Micah Brandt Pride weekend just got a little bit hotter. and Travis James June 24 for the NeighNeighbours Seattle (1509 Broadway) has bours Seattle Pink Party with DJ Richard J. teamed up with Gay porn giant Randy Blue Dalton and a special performance by Kim-

berly Caldwell, and June 25 for Powermix with DJ Randy Schlager, hosted by Gaysha Starr and featuring a live performance by Thea Austin.

Although Rockway, 31, has spent some time in the Northwest, Pride weekend will

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18 Seattle Gay News

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Seattle Gay News 19

courtesy india ferrah

India Ferrah joins Shannel and Jessica Wild at Julia’s for Pride celebration

by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor

India Ferrah

20 Seattle Gay News

June 24, 2011

Often imitated but never bested, the main stage at Julia’s on Broadway is the place to be Pride weekend to see the cast of Le Faux – Seattle’s premier drag show – and to catch three divas: Shannel (RuPaul’s Drag Race season one), Jessica Wild (RuPaul’s Drag Race season two), and India Ferrah (RuPaul’s Drag Race season three).

India Ferrah, the newest member of the Drag Race family, says she is super-excited to come to Seattle.

“I’ve never been to Seattle, or Washington, period,” India told Seattle Gay News.

“The Julia’s on Broadway Gay Pride Block Party is going to be an amazing event, and I am looking forward to meeting Shannel from Drag Race season one, as she has been a huge inspiration to me and is one of the reasons why I continued to audition for the show.”

Shannel is no stranger to Seattle or Julia’s on Broadway. Throughout 2010 she reigned supreme as the host of Le Faux – the number-one female impersonation show in the Northwest.

India Ferrah says she is also looking forward to meeting some of her fans.

“Being asked to perform at this event is pretty amazing,” she said, “but to share it with each and every one of you is going to be the best part. This is going to be a wonderful weekend and so over-the-top.”

Over-the-top is right. This year, Julia’s on Broadway management has put together a show that will delight the eyes and ears of everyone in attendance. The fun begins June 24 with Shannel, Jessica Wild, and India Ferrah joining Le Faux for a 10 p.m. show. Then, June 25, during the third annual Capitol Hill Pride Festival from noon to 10 p.m., Julia’s offers a full day of entertainment with three live bands – Smoking Bill, Sex Offender, The Georgetown Orbits – as well as DJ Dana Dub, Seattle’s premier drag performers, and the cast of Le Faux. Part of the proceeds will go directly to the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Abbey of Saint Joan grants fund.

India Ferrah told SGN that Seattle audiences can expect “a lot of energy and a lot of hair.”

“I like to think of myself as a true entertainer, and when I step on stage, everyone can feel my energy and my drive for the art,” she said. “There will be a couple of surprises up my sleeve.”

India says she currently listens to and is inspired by Nicki Minaj, Christina Aguilera, Fergie, Jennifer Lopez, and Pink.

“Each of these artists are so different and I truly love their drive and passion.”

As with any queen talented enough to be a part of the cast of the now-legendary RuPaul’s Drag Race, India Ferrah said her life has been changed in ways she couldn’t have dreamt. “It has opened so many doors for me in so many ways! I get to travel all over the country and meet so many wonderful people and to perform for crowds of 75 people to thousands of people,” India told SGN. “I mean, look at me, being interviewed for Seattle Gay News! I can honestly say I would’ve never dreamed I’d be doing half the things I’m doing. It has allowed me to be a more open person and more accepting of other people. It has completely changed my outlook on reality TV and it taught me how to be not bitter.”

Once a “baby queen” herself, India has some advice for starting queens. “Strap on your pumps and your seatbelt and get ready for one hell of a ride,” she joked.

“It’s a crazy world, but if you stick to it, it can completely change your life.”

“This is my 12th year in the art, and it has made me such a strong and independent person as well as a business owner,” she continued. “I’ve had many ups and downs, but I’ve kept my head held high and let the bullshit and drama go in one ear and out the other.”

She said one of the biggest pieces of advice she could give would be, “Don’t listen to anyone who tries to bring you down or brings drama into your life.”

“Don’t waste valuable time on pitiful drama,” said India. “If you pay attention to it or fight back and forth over it, you are only feeding fuel to the fire. Be the bigger person and live your life. You only have one, and trust me, it’s not forever.”

Join Shannel, Jessica Wild, India Ferrah, the cast of Le Faux, and the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Abbey of Saint Joan, for a Pride weekend that promises to be the best yet!

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Seattle Gay News 21

gaga

argument, I want to be privy to the conversation. In democracy I am told I have a voice in this discourse. But although Americans may celebrate Gay pride and peacefully protest, we are shaded by politics and hidden from legislative processes as they beg to enforce change.

Now lets talk about Europride. Put your paws up. This is not just a party, it is not just a peaceful demonstration, this is the spirit of a basic human right. We are here today to defend love!

I want to say thank you to all of the beautiful people assembled here today. I awoke in my luscious Italian silk sheets today, naked, to mashups of “Paparazzi,” “Judas,” “Born This Way,” and many others. Thank you for allowing my music to be a part of this joyous day. I was dancing in the shower, wishing I was out here with all of you. To

the organizers of Euro Pride, the leaders of the FRA who fight every day for the rights of the LGBT citizens across the European union, thank you. Bravo!

To the mayor of Rome, Gianni Alemanno, thank you for your note, and to his administration and the parliament of Italy, we all thank you for coordinating and supporting this amazing celebration. Please continue to protect this beautiful crowd. I am honored to be here. And, additionally, a warm thankyou to Donatella Versace for making all my Gay Italian dreams come true. Today I wear only Archive, by the legendary Gianni Versace.

I look out into the crowed, a plethora of European citizens aligned, knowing firsthand that some of your governments still block the basic freedom of assembly. Celebrations such as this one are still illegal.

I’ve traveled the world, meeting, kissing, touching, and celebrating with all of you.

It is your bravery and courage that now inspires my own. The stories of young sol-

22 Seattle Gay News

June 24, 2011

continued from the cover

diers, homeless LGBT youth, anti-Gay violence, and the effects that the denial of Gay marriage has had on real families worldwide – these are stories that must be told.

These are the stories that will change the world. These are the stories that speak out in the defense of love. We are here because we are no less valuable. We are here to proclaim our strength, our steadfastness, and our intelligence. We will not be treated as any less than human!

On the night of June 27, 1969, in the heart of my home, Manhattan’s West Village, the Gay rights movement was born. We stood together on that night the same as we are standing here today, in solidarity for change.

But today we stand with peaceful flags, hope for togetherness, and our priority – though simple as it may sound – is to defend and honor love. We stand together today to demand and to defend basic human rights, full equality, and an end to intolerance and discrimination. We have come far from the days of Stonewall, but despite the political

advances made in terms of our rights and visibility for LGBT people, sadly the truth and the fact is homophobia and anti-Gay violence and bullying are alive and real.

I have spoken out worldwide, repeatedly and viciously, about these issues. I am often questioned, “Why so much Gay-speak?

How Gay are you, Lady Gaga? Why is this subject so important?”

I am a child of diversity, I am one with my generation. I feel a moral obligation as a woman, or a man, to exercise my revolutionary potential and make the world a better place. And on a Gay scale of one to 10, I’m a Judy Garland fucking 42.

I am aware that many countries and governments worldwide still restrict their citizens from reading about LGBT issues and challenges, placing censorships on their respective medias, and it is my profuse belief that these powerful stories are what will bridge the gap of human commonality.

We’ve all got the same DNA, we were just born this way. The block of LGBT stories and information is precisely what perpetuates hate and discrimination, as it limits the public’s ability to perceive of the tremendous effect inequality has on my generation and generation to come. Suicide. Self-loathing.

Isolation. Inability to find work or integrate based on fear. Today, here we stand up and we speak out against those governments.

I would like to name a few: Lithuania, Russia, Poland. We stand up for Budapest, Lebanon, and Middle Eastern countries. We ask you to facilitate our dream of equality, help us to stand together peacefully, and not divide us. I am aware and respectful of religious histories and books, and I am compassionate towards young people and families who sacredly honor their lineage. I am not asking you to renounce your beliefs.

I am asking you simply to acknowledge the change – modern social issues are serious and the laws that confine them have a larger overarching effect on humanity. The precedent set by the government is influential, and that is why we are here. Because it regards that some of us, LGBTs, may never have an equal seat at the table. For the 15-year-old in school who struggles with identity, what do they have to look up to? Where is their wedding day? Where does the dream of their potential end?

Rome, how can we transform the oppression of the past into the liberation of the future? How can we give birth to new equal and international ideology? Let us come together and synthesize our histories into the now! Let us be revolutionaries for love, and use our human powers to save lives and encourage unity!

Thank you.

Celebrating 38 Years!

Albert says, “Five free or low-cost summer music festivals worth a listen”

by Albert Rodriguez SGN A&E Writer

time on Wednesdays and Fridays through ent, such as jazz-blues-folk performer Ryan September 2.

Shea Smith. Performances take place in the Rock and Roll Library (Grand Piano Lobby) Whether you’re short on cash or in search Six Seven Living Room inside the hotel, famous for hosting some of of live outdoor music at a fair price, none of Concert Series music’s biggest names including The Beatthese summer festivals will drain your walSeattle Waterfront les and Led Zeppelin. In fact, Robert Plant let. www.edgewaterhotel.com recently stopped by the Edgewater to reconSix Seven, inside the Edgewater Hotel, nect with the past on his recent visit to SeJamfest invites waterfront strollers to its Living attle. Check the hotel’s website or Facebook International District Room Concert Series that features local tal- page for live show updates, and note that all www.wingluke.org Bubble tea and a live show? Why not! The International District hosts Jamfest the third Saturday of each month this summer with performances at The Wing Luke Museum (719 S. King St.) and nearby businesses. I came across a quartet of acoustic musicians playing on the sidewalk during this month’s festivities, while another small ensemble jammed away at Hing Hay Park. Other concert venues include House of Hong (409 8th Ave. S.), Phnom Penh Noodle House (660 S. King St.), and Four Seas Restaurant (714 S. King St.). The single cover charge, allowing you entry to all indoor concerts, is $8 per person.

shows are gratis.

Concerts at the Mural Seattle Center www.seattlecenter.com You’ll find the in-crowd hanging outside this summer at Mural Amphitheatre, inside the Seattle Center compound in lower Queen Anne. Local indie station KEXP is the sponsor for a summer-long festival that rounds up buzzworthy regional bands like the Maldives, Math and Physics Club, Hey Marseilles, Black Mountain, and Ravenna Woods. All concerts are free and run August 5-26 right across from the Pavilion.

Don’t bother driving, as monorail service is within feet of the Mural.

Seattle Peace Concerts Gasworks Park, Volunteer Park, Lower Woodland Park Shelter 1 www.seapeace.org This community festival is in its 31st year of existence, with its pledge to “celebrate the peace between us and the oneness of all life.” Concerts are scheduled through September 18 at three local parks and incorporate a variety of music genres from reggae to zydeco, and world beat to choral. Every show is free, although a donation hat will be passed to cover production costs, and attendees are asked to bring cans of food for Northwest Harvest.

Out to Lunch Downtown Seattle www.downtown seattleevents.com Curated by the Downtown Seattle Association and making use of multiple venues, the Out to Lunch summer music series features great Seattle bands like the Moondoggies, the Dusty 45s, Wheedle’s Groove, Leroy Bell, and Choklate. Among the locations hosting individual performances are the Federal Courthouse, Bank of America Plaza, Two Union Square, Westlake Park, and the Harbor Steps. All shows are free and take place under the sun during lunch-

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Seattle Gay News 23