culture box

As we approach Pride Month, we’ve had the privilege of speaking with several artists who are not only making waves in the music scene but also championing equality and advocating for continued progress. Here’s what they had to say about the strides we’ve made, the challenges ahead, and the role of music in fostering a more inclusive world.

A queer person working in music who has inspired you and why?

“I know Charli XCX is an ally in the queer community But I must include her because she’s the one who has inspired me to let go of judgment and insecurities, helping me to feel free in my artistic expression. Her way of making the queer community within her fan base a place where you feel special and seen inspires me to embrace freedom of expression and not care about others’ opinions in my art. She has had a huge impact on my journey in music and art. Another queer person who inspired me would be Dorian Electra. The unique and inspiring music and artistic expression had a huge impact on my journey. They reached me, how images can be in art, expression and music.” – Taralillah

“Who inspires me the most, specifically from the electronic music scene, is Dana Montana. Their energy is unbelievable. They are so euphoric, sexy and fun and that’s exactly how listening to their sets makes you feel” – Fanni Fluid

“Uh, I have a very long list, but I have to highlight Annælix because when I started DJing, she was absolutely my biggest inspiration. Even though we don’t play the same genre, I could really relate to her, and I felt like she had created a path that I could follow”. – steamboi

What can the audience expect from your performance at the Beats of Pride event at Culture Box (regarding music or mindset)?

“I’m going to take the audience on a trance and techno journey from progressive, psy and bubble gum trance to four-on-the-floor techno, spiced up with well-known pop vocals. Buckle up!” – Fanni Fluid

“My mission is to make the audience expect not only songs that set you free and leave you feeling confident, but also a space to let go. This is the time to let yourself be free.” – Taralillah

“It’s fascinating to have curated the lineup in the Black Box, so I’m probably going to be super hyped and play a lot of high-energy bangers.” – steamboi

“Disco is Queer! Before Stonewall and the civil rights movement, there were no places for queer people to dance together. POC were facing race riots and segregation, as well as in bars and clubs. From the oppression and unsafe environments, grew an underground movement, a desire to create places to dance and express yourself together. A diamond disco ball was born. To honour these pioneers, Queerora Borealis bring you queer disco and house sounds to make your body bounce like there’s no tomorrow!” – Ilmo

“At my performance at Culture Box, you will hear music that celebrates the 1970s gay liberation movement and the idealistic nightclubs where everyone could freely express themselves and people from all genders, sexualities, races and social classes danced the night away together in unity to the disco sounds. As disco itself is a blend of many of the finest genres of music before the 70s, my set will consist of a similar mindset of blending genres from previous decades together, tailored for the LGBTQ+ community & the Culture Box venue. I hope for the audience to respect, and to feel within this non-judgmental mentality, and to express their identity and style as extravagantly as they wish.” – Siquiche

“Ohh, this is always a tricky one as I try not to overthink or over-plan my set in advance but rather go with the flow of the night and the dancers. What I can promise is that it will be a delicious mix of all things house; be it more deep, cunty, funky or tribal – it will all be revealed during the night. Anxiously waiting already as I´ve heard so many praises of the venue. See you all on the dancefloor!” – Mr. A

How do you think having visible LGBTQ+ role models within the electronic music industry impacts younger generations and aspiring artists?

“I think the queer community provides a safe space to have the freedom of expression without judgment, danger, or criticism. It allows individuals to grow beyond expectations and into exploration. This is key to ensuring a community grows, by feeling confident and accepted no matter how you dress or express yourself. The amount of support from the queer community as a queer person myself is enormous and means more than just being supportive – it’s accepting of myself on another level. Of past trauma, criticism and rejection. The support from the community is the most important part of my journey and growth.” – Taralillah

“It’s always great to have representation, and it’s extremely important too. It gives a lot when you can relate to someone and see them fight the same fights as you do, and see them succeed. It pushes you towards the thought that you are not alone and that you can do it too.” – Fanni Fluid

“Representation is crucial for equality in the music industry and society. Visible LGBTQ+ role models give people someone to relate to, showing that others share their challenges. It’s vital to know we’re not alone in improving the industry for minorities. I hope new generations and artists feel they belong, are less alone, and don’t have to tackle equality issues by themselves while building their careers.” – steamboi

What is your hope for the future of the music scene in regards to ensuring greater representation and support for LGBTQ+ artists and audiences?

“I hope the topic continues to stay in focus, and that the scene keeps working on creating safer spaces. I also hope we soon see more minorities in leadership positions within the music industry.” – steamboi