DJ Kygo Delivers New Whitney Houston "Higher Love" From Rare 1990 Recording

DJ/producer Kyrre Gørvell-Dahll (aka Kygo) releases the new single “Higher Love” with the legendary Whitney Houston.

"Higher Love" is the first new Whitney Houston music released in a decade, since 2009’s “I Look To You.”

Previously, Houston's take on the 1986 Steve Winwood hit was available as a 'Japan-only' bonus track on her 1990 album, I'm Your Baby Tonight.

Music industry legend Clive Davis told Rolling Stone the decision to omit the track on the U.S. release was an effort in avoiding her being viewed as a cover artist at that time.

And so, the track has been a prized rarity among hardcore Houston fans over the years.

The Whitney Houston estate presented Kygo with the archival recording of Whitney’s version, and Kygo raced into the studio, thrilled for the opportunity to make music with one of the greatest female vocalists of all time.

“I was honored when the Whitney Houston estate reached out and presented me with the opportunity to work with one of the greatest female vocalists of all time," said Kygo in a statement. "I reworked the song from scratch and am really happy with how it turned out!”

Recorded when Houston was in peak vocal form, the first notes from the diva feel like an old friend walking in the room. That voice - rich, robust, with just the perfect edge - is full of unbridled joy.

The production - thoroughly modern with threads of gospel choir woven in with undeniable deep beats - is fresh and exhilarating. Instead of merely remastering the track, Kygo stripped away the previous production and started from scratch to create a new track around the gorgeous Houston vocals.

“I was trying to make it sound like something that she would’ve done, but also something that’s my style,” he told Rolling Stone.

Kygo will perform the song this Sunday, June 30th, at PrideFestival Utopia in New York City.

Hit play and enjoy.

Pride Music: Mika "Ice Cream"

Out singer/songwriter Mika drops his perfect-for-summer new single, “Ice Cream,” in advance of his upcoming album, My Name Is Michael Holbrook.

The Lebanese-born artist calls the song “a daydream fantasy” that was borne during a sweltering August in Italy. “It shimmers like a mirage, and makes me feel like anything is possible,” adds the 35-year-old singer.

The song came to him near the end of a two-year writing period. After musically exploring some serious, personal issues in his writing, Mika says he felt “lighter and freer” and escape was on his mind.

“I wanted to run away to the sea, or just about anywhere,” says Mika.

Instead, Mika sat down and dreamed about “summer flings” and “the other person I always wish I was during the summer.” But with no air conditioning, Mika mainly recalls the heat, the sweat, work deadlines and bee stings - all of which gets referenced in the bouncy bop’s lyrics.

Mika (photo: Peter Lindbergh)

With a solid bass beat and a hooky, falsetto-filled chorus, “Ice Cream” sounds like the sonic lovechild of 90s George Michael and Prince tunes.

The lyric video is a groovy melange of bold, playful graphics that doesn't take itself too seriously.

Released at the beginning of Pride Month, the timing couldn’t be more perfect as Mika wants his fans to “dare to be the more proud version of yourself.”

“Dare to be a sensual man, dare to express out loud the desires you always keep inside your head,” says the UK-based artist.

Mika first grabbed the spotlight in 2007 when he released his first album, Life in Cartoon Motion. The first single, “Grace Kelly,” went to number one in the UK and eleven other countries, and earned him a Brit Award and a Grammy nomination.

Since then, he’s been certified Gold and Platinum in 32 countries worldwide.

My Name Is Michael Holbrook, Mika’s fifth studio album, drops on October 4. Mika will follow its release with a world tour beginning in London on November 10.

Check out the new track below and let us know what you think in the comments.

New Music: Netta "Nana Banana"

I always have an interesting reaction to new releases by Israeli recording artist Netta, who gained worldwide fame as the winner of the 2018 Eurovision Song contest.

You'll recall her breakout hit "Toy," complete with chicken clucks and more, which continues to generate millions of views each month.

Her latest release, "Nana Banana," seems like another kind of novelty song, but I watched the lyric video all the way to the end, so something drew me in.

According to press materials, the lyrics are represent Netta's own "quest to find a safe place outside her comfort zone in the wake of the Eurovision win."

Hit play below and see what you think.

Madonna's "I Rise" Is An Empowering Anthem For Pride

Madonna drops the second single, "I Rise," from her upcoming album, Madame X.

Acknowledging the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall riots in New York City, the Queen of Pop dedicates the song to "all marginalized people who feel they don't have the opportunity to speak their mind."

In a statement, Madonna says the positive message of the track "encourages all individuals to be who they are, to speak their minds and to love themselves."

The new track begins with a sample of openly bisexual high school student Emma Gonzales's famous quote at a rally shortly after the deadly mass shooting at her school in Parkland, Florida.

“They say us kids don’t know what we’re talking about, that we’re too young to understand how the government works. We call BS!”

The single's release comes just a day before Madge will be honored with the Advocate for Change Award at the 30th Annual GLAAD Media Awards in New York City on May 4. Madonna is the second person and first woman to ever receive this recognition, which is awarded to a person who changed the game for LGBTQ people around the world through their work.

"I Rise" follows the release of "Medellín," Madonna's collaboration with Latin pop star Maluma.

Before the album's release on June 14, Madonna has announced three more tracks will drop: "Crave" on May 10, dance track "Future" on May 17, and "Dark Ballet" on June 7.

Madonna & Maluma's "Medellín" Is Some Sexy Wedding Goodness

Madonna and Maluma in "Medellín"

Madonna dropped her new music video, “Medellín,” Wednesday featuring Colombian reggaeton star Maluma, who is waaaay sexy.

The video, from her upcoming album Madame X, begins with a long shot of the pop queen praying in the distance:

“Dear God, how could I trust anyone after years of disappointment and betrayal?” she whispers. “How could I not want to run away again and again? Escape. I will never be what society expects me to be.” #ClassicMadonna

“Now, I’m Madame X, and Madame X loves to dance,” she concludes her prayer. “Because you can’t hit a moving target.”

Cut to Madge leading a dance class in her eye-patch wearing persona of Madame X, where she meets Maluma.

At this point, it’s important to repeat that Maluma is uber-charming and smoking hot.

Madonna finds Maluma way sexy, too

The dance lesson leads to some mattress dancing (which may or may not involve toe licking), and eventually a wild, raucous carnival wedding party.

In between, Madge dances opposite a horse in a darkened arena, which may or may not have a clearer meaning at another time…?

Did I mention that Maluma is way hot?

The duo will perform “Medellín” live at the 2019 Billboard Awards on May 1.

And this isn’t the only collaboration with Maluma. He’s also featured on another Madame X track, “Bitch I’m Loca.”

Squeeee!!!

Madame X, Madonna’s 14th studio album, drops June 14.

New Music: Parker Matthews Proves Nobody Is "Running From Me"

Parker Matthews in 'Running From Me'

Out singer/songwriter Parker Matthews debuts his latest single and music video, “Running From Me.”

I've been listening (and watching) the talented musician since he proved he’s definitely no “Hit and Run” last May, and he’s had me “Feelin’ Right” ever since.

In each release, Matthews consistently brings top-shelf production, pop-synth goodness and a hooky chorus with smooth vocal delivery.

Music writers agree:

“An infectious slice of pop music” – Music Is My Radar

"Pop music just might have found its next star in Parker Matthews" – The Musical Hype

“Matthews’ confidence in his sexuality glows onscreen” – Pop Dust

I chatted with the handsome singer about "Running From Me," the power of confidence and the importance of vibe in a recording session.

The Randy Report: After bouncy upbeat bops like “Hit and Run” and the liquid-sexy “Feelin’ Right,” your new single “Running From Me” is a dance floor banger. Do you plan on switching it up or is just this how the music comes?

Parker Matthews: I think I’ve grown a lot as an artist and had a great time exploring the different sides of who I am, and what I want to write.

This record was a very defining one for me, not only because it’s the first of some amazing new material I have on the way, but also because I wanted to instill a sense on confidence in the listener.

I wrote this record based off a personal story of mine, but I want the listener to realize that they hold the power and the confidence to do whatever they want because with that mentality, nobody’s gonna be running from them.

TRR: You dance in the new music video - is this the first time fans see you bust a move other than some party bouncing in “Hit and Run?”

PM: It was so great! I grew up dancing, and to be able to be on camera doing that was absolutely thrilling. My team and I brought in some incredible dance talent and I will definitely be bringing that vibe onto future records/ videos as well.

TRR: Your lyrics tend to express confidence in yourself. Are you as confident in real life?

PM: You know, it’s interesting… When I’m being the artist side of me as ‘Parker Matthews’ on a shoot or on stage, I am super outgoing and confident. However, when I’m just with my friends, or out for the night, I’m pretty quiet and always kinda stay in the background.

Somebody told me that you’re trying to own me

But I’m never lonely cause ain’t nobody running from me

And don’t say you know how to win over me now

You know that I don’t don’t bow cause ain’t nobody running from me

TR: At this point, do you have a “process” in writing/recording? Or is every project approached differently?

PM: Every record has a general outline of being written and recorded the same way, but at the same time, it’s always a little different. A lot of the time, when writing, I’ll start with the chorus, and build from there.

However, for "Running From Me," I actually started with the very first line of the record, ‘You make me feel like everybody’s watching me…’ and I sat down and went from there.

When it comes to recording, I am all about the VIBE. Depending on what studio I’m in, I make sure all the candles are lit and we’re going in on that session. Having a good vibe during a recording session really translates to the record, in my opinion.

TRR: Who are you listening to today? Who’s at the top of your playlist?

PM: I’m listening to a little bit of everything right now. If the record speaks to me, I’ll get down with it for sure.

I love pop and dance music, but I also love a good power ballad, much like the record I have coming next (hint hint, wink wink). Thank you and the LGBTQ community for you amazing support!

You can follow Parker Matthews on Instagram here, Facebook here and check out his official website here.

“Running From Me“ is now available on iTunes and all digital download sites.

And you can check out my podcast interview with Parker by clicking the play button below.

First Listen: Madonna's New Single “Medellín" Featuring Maluma

Maluma and Madonna sing "Medellín"

Get your first listen to the latest from Madonna - the lead single from her upcoming album,

Madame X, titled, “Medellín.”

The track is a collaboration with Colombian pop star/hunk, Maluma. Hit the play button below.

The Queen of Pop also shared the release date for the albumwill be June 14.

Madame X will be the "Vogue" singer's 14th studio album, and first since Rebel Heart dropped in 2015.

The track list for Madame X (via Instagram)

The track had its debut on Apple Music’s Beats1 with Zane Lowe.

Minutes before the debut of the song, Madge tweeted a reminder to her fans featuring her hunky duet partner, calling the event a "World Record."

#Medellin ft @maluma is today’s @Beats1 World Record on @AppleMusic with @zanelowe 9 AM LA/12 PM NYC/5 PM LDN pic.twitter.com/EkpwRElj7U

— Madonna (@Madonna) April 17, 2019

As I recently reported, Madonna has been confirmed to perform two songs at the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv, Israel.

One track will be from her catalogue and the second from Madame Xduring the song contest’s grand finale on May 18.

Israeli-Canadian billionaire Sylvan Adams offered to cover the cost of presenting Madonna pointing to the visibility it will bring Israel.

The Jerusalem Post reported the pop star asked for $1 million to perform.

Maluma and Madonna (image via Instagram)

Madonna's Newest Album Casts The Pop Icon As Secret Agent 'Madame X'

Madonna becomes secret agent 'Madame X' for her next album

Madonna thrilled her fans this weekend as she teased the title and feel for her next album with a mysterious, stylized video clip.

In the video posted to her social media, Madge shares the news at a table of friends, “I’ve decided to call my record Madame X.”

As various characters or alter egos in elaborate costumes appear on the screen, we hear Madge say, “Madame X is a secret agent traveling around the world, changing identities, fighting for freedom, bringing light to dark places.”

She goes on to rattle off a list of identities that the enigmatic secret agent embodies.

“She is a dancer, a professor, a head of state, a housekeeper, an equestrian, a prisoner, a student, a mother, a child, a teacher, a nun, a singer, a saint, a whore, and a spy – in the house of love.”

In a simple summation, “I’m Madame X.”

Welcome to the World of Madame ❌. ..................... @nunoxico #stevenkleinstudio pic.twitter.com/bo0L0MAstr

— Madonna (@Madonna) April 14, 2019

The video also features Madonna singing a new song, a piano-driven piece with the lyrics, “The thing that hurts the most / is that I wasn’t lost.”

The 60-year-old pop star followed up the announcement with a couple of quick clips of the mysterious ’Madame X.’

Madame ❌ is a spy in the house of Love ♥️ pic.twitter.com/8DE5SF6uyR

— Madonna (@Madonna) April 14, 2019

What song is Madame ❌ playing............... pic.twitter.com/257fxOHwyN

— Madonna (@Madonna) April 14, 2019

For several weeks now, the queen of pop has posted various hints on her Twitter and Instagram accounts about the new project which now come into clearer focus.

No street date announced yet, but with this announcement we’re guessing the first single could come soon.

Madame X follows the 2015 release Rebel Heart, and will be Madonna’s 14th studio album.

More identities by Madonna's 'Madame X'

New Music: Dido "Give You Up"

Dido has released the gorgeous music video of her latest single, "Give You Up."

“It’s just so perfect,” Dido says of the track. “It’s a good break up song, where you’ve been hurt but feel strong. It’s that point in a relationship where you are pulling yourself out of the gutter and deciding that it’s their loss. Which I can totally relate to.”

The video's rich, saturated visuals are a perfect complement to Dido's exquisite vocals.

Dido will launch a world tour beginning in Chicago on June 13.

Still On My Mind (out March 8) is Dido’s 5th studio album.

Valentine Tune: Linda Eder "Vienna"

Linda Eder performs "Vienna"

Today being Valentine's Day, I wanted to post some romantic musical moment to share.

I've always been a fan of a big 80/90s pop ballad and, of course, Broadway.

Which puts this clip right in the sweet spot.

I hadn't heard Linda Eder's vocal opus "Vienna" in a while, and came across this concert video from a few years back.

Eder first came to fame winning the 1988 edition of the TV talent show Star Search. She later met and married Frank Wildhorn, who would become her writer/producer and husband.

She starred in Wildhorn's Broadway musical Jekyll & Hyde and developed quite the huge cult following.

"Vienna" was written in the 80s, but Eder didn't release the epic track until her 1991 self-titled album. The song became one of her most requested in her catalogue.

While she doesn't have the acting chops of a Streisand, to whom she was often compared early in her career, she certainly can sing her face off. She's the real deal.

I think I wore a hole in the CD back in the day listening to this over and over. The key change around the 4:00 mark is pretty impressive.

Enjoy below.

P!nk Announces New Album And Previews 1st Single, "Walk Me Home," On ELLEN

International pop-star, P!nk

OMG, I love me some P!nk.

Sitting down with Ellen DeGeneres this week, international pop-star P!nk announced she has a new album called Hurts to Be Human coming out in the spring, and even offered an impromptu preview of the first single, "Walk Me Home."

The singer chatted with Ellen about her 17-year relationship & marriage with husband Carey Hart; how if she were "truly happy" she would be 'useless' as a songwriter and artist; plus how she's really good at getting nominated for Grammys.

To be clear, though, she has won 3 Grammys out of 20 nominations. I'm guessing she's just feeling a bit of the dry spell since her last trophy win in 2010.

But, she's totally charming and fun. If you haven't seen P!nk in concert, make sure you do next time she's nearby. The best pop concerts I've ever attended.

Watch below.

Jeremy Jordan's Terrific New Take On "Oh What A Beautiful Mornin'"

Jeremy Jordan "O What a Beautiful Mornin'"

After spending some years working on television series like The CW's Supergirl and NBC's SMASH, oh-so-talented Jeremy Jordan returned to Broadway last fall in the new play, American Son.

If you haven't seen the play at the Booth Theatre, hurry up as it's set to close at the end of the month.

That said, American Son isn't Jordan's only 'return' to Broadway material.

Having starred in musicals on the Great White Way like West Side Story, Newsies, and Bonnie and Clyde, folks might have forgotten what an gifted singer Jordan is.

Until now.

The Rodgers & Hammerstein Organization shares a new music video, the first in a series titled, "R&H Goes Pop!," of contemporary twists on timeless classics from the R&H catalog.

Jordan gets the honor of debuting this new take on the Oklahoma opener, "Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’."

I've been a fan of Jordan's for years now. A terrific actor and vocalist, he's the real deal who can deliver.

The arrangement and orchestration here is killer: bright, fresh and current.

I love reinvention, and I love this.

Jordan took to Twitter to announce the news, writing, "A while back, the fine folks at @RnH_Org asked me to reimagine a classic. Naturally, I enlisted the help of @brauhala & we came up with this take on "O What a Beautiful Mornin." Then @nathanjohnsonny shot this video in the summer HEAT. Enjoy!"

A while back, the fine folks at @RnH_Org asked me to reimagine a classic. Naturally, I enlisted the help of @brauhala & we came up with this take on "O What a Beautiful Mornin." Then @nathanjohnsonny shot this video in the summer HEAT. Enjoy! #RHgoesPop https://t.co/LUV0ojC17U

— Jeremy Jordan (@JeremyMJordan) January 14, 2019

So happy to share "O What a Beautiful Mornin"... I know it's not everyone's cup of tea, but it brought me such joy to infuse some of my musical personality into a classic. I encourage everyone to take something old & shape it into something new. Something YOU think is beautiful

— Jeremy Jordan (@JeremyMJordan) January 18, 2019

Watch the new music video below and feel good.

New Music From Janet Jackson, Cher & Madonna

New music from Janet Jackson, Cher and Madonna

It was quite the week for music royalty.

As we lost our indisputable “Queen of Soul,” Aretha Franklin, the two “Queens of Pop” – Janet Jackson and Madonna – dropped new music videos that are singularly unique to the two artists visual and musical style.

Jackson teamed with oh-so-sexy Daddy Yankee for her latest music video, “Made For Now.”

Visually reminiscent of “When I Think of You” and “Escapade,” the video (directed by Dave Meyers) is classic Janet as she celebrates among the folks of Brooklyn appearing all over the NYC borough in bold, high-style fashion.

Featured throughout are a mélange of international dancers that hail from Nigeria, Ghana, Grenada, Trinidad and the U.S.

In an interview with iHeartRadio, Jackson shared she’s “always loved Latin music, and obviously, the African music is there and always been an influence.”

“Coming from what Daddy Yankee does in reggaeton, it’s inspiration,” she added. “It’s reggae music, which brings you back to the African vibe, the whole bit. It was really nice working with him,” Jackson said.

Jackson and Yankee also performed the song live on The Tonight Show marking her first late-night appearance in 14 years.

Watch below.

Madonna released a stunning, long-form music video from her performance at the MET Gala earlier this year.

The video begins with bold, dynamic visions of religious imagery and Gregorian chanting leading into, of course, “Like a Virgin.”

After making her way down a huge stairway, Madge and company do a quick costume change at the 6:05 mark as she launches into “Beautiful Game.”

After a choreographed assault by her dancers that leaves her prone of the steps of the MET, the Queen of Pop performs Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” while slowly making her exit.

The dramatic final frames of the video (would we expect anything less?) focus on a concrete angel with the rumbling of thunder in the distance.

Quite the message.

Watch Madonna and company below.

In related Madonna news, can we say god bless the gay DJs?

The new Cher cover of ABBA’s “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!” dropped last week and within 24 hours DJ Alex Simpson, based in Toronto, shared his fierce remix of Cher’s new track and Madonna’s 2005 hit “Hung Up,” which samples the ABBA classic.

I believe this is, technically, the first time the two divas have sung together before…?

Listen below.

Podcast: Interview With Pop Music Superstar & LGBT Ally Richard Marx

In this episode of The Randy Report podcast, I chat with Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter/producer - and LGBT ally - Richard Marx, who has made a gorgeous debut as a headliner on the Las Vegas Strip with his limited engagement residency, “Satisfied: Only The Hits,” at Flamingo Las Vegas now through Sept. 2, 2017.

Among his many achievements, Marx is distinguished for having written a #1 song in four different decades across various charts.

Having sold more than 30 million albums worldwide and notching an amazing 14 #1 singles (his latest - Keith Urban’s #1 smash “Long Hot Summer”) both as a performer and songwriter/producer including “Hold on to the Nights,” “Satisfied” and “Now and Forever,” fans get to experience the pop/rock artist up close in an intimate Las Vegas showroom as Marx performs acoustic versions of his greatest hits backed by a gorgeous string quartet. The evening also includes the true, personal stories behind his hits.

We chat about one of his favorite music collaborations, his Las Vegas gig at the Flamingo, his terrific podcast “Song Talks with Richard Marx,” plus as a staunch LGBT ally, he shares how and why he speaks out for LGBTs.

After I quoted a few of his social media posts made in support of the LGBT community ("Anybody gay, bi or transgender out there I hope you have someone who loves you exactly as you are. Especially your parents. G'night."), Marx had this to say:

I'm lucky in that I was born to two parents who when it came to gay rights, when it came to civil rights, when it came to race relations, from the time I was old enough to comprehend it, I had two parents that taught me what was right. And that any kind of judgment or prejudice or hatred or anybody who's different than you is so fucked up.

And so I was raised in an atmosphere where the idea of that was just anathema. It moved me that you quoted that, because I've had friends, gay or bisexual friends, who I've witnessed them be hurt. Especially by their family. I've been friends with gay men whose fathers never talked to them again. And I've seen that pain. And it just kills me.

Along the way, I also share a couple of snippets of his live performance on stage at the Flamingo Las Vegas :)

Hit play and listen below.

New Music: Pink "What About Us"

Pink announces she's "insanely proud" of her upcoming album, Beautiful Trauma (release date October 13th), and shares the first single from the collection, pop anthem "What About Us."

I could not be more excited right now. My single comes out today "What About Us" and my new album "Beautiful Trauma" comes out October 13th. I'm certifiably, insanely proud of this album. It's been a while, and I'm grateful for all the years we've had. Looking forward to the next chapter with you.

This is the first new music from Pink in 5 years, and folks are ready. The new song is just what you want from Pink: mainstream power pop with empowering lyrics.

And there are some not-so-vague references to our new Cheeto In Chief. Check some of these lyrics:

And you sold us down the river too far

What about us - What about all the times you said you had the answers?

What about us - What about all the plans that ended in disaster?

What about love? / What about trust?

We were willing / We came when you called / But man, you fooled us / Enough is enough!

Check the lyric video of "What About Us" below:

I could not be more excited right now. My single comes out today "what About Us" and my new album "Beautiful Trauma" comes out October 13th. I'm certifiably, insanely proud of this album. It's been a while, and I'm grateful for all the years we've had. Looking forward to the next chapter with you.

A post shared by P!NK (@pink) on Aug 9, 2017 at 2:15pm PDT

Out Music: Superfruit "Worth It (Perfect)"

Mitch Grassi and Scott Hoying - Superfruit

More colorful, pop-y goodness from Superfruit, the side gig for out Pentatonix members, Mitch Grassi and Scott Hoying.

Following the release of "Imaginary Parties" and "Bad 4 Us," the duo drops a third music video - "Worth It (Perfect)" - from their new EP, Future Friends (Part One).

The new single is a bright, synth-pop confection that matches the fun, feel-good video featuring teen dancers Kaycee Rice and Sage Rosen, who flip the switch on binary roles, dancing in gender-nonconforming costumes.

Grassi and Hoying, founding and current gay members of the 3-time Grammy Award-winning a cappella quintet Pentatonix, describe Superfruit's musical approach as, "a little more gay-friendly and a lot more open, more sexual, more liberated.”

Watch the fun video below.

Sage Rosen and Kaycee Rice

New Music: Steps "Neon Blue"

So, this is kind of a #ThrowBackThursday post if you happen to love 90s dance/pop music.

The UK music group Steps formed in 1997, and over 4 years had two #1 singles, two #1 albums and 14 consecutive top 5 singles in the UK and a string of hits throughout Europe. To date, the group has sold over 20 million records worldwide

The name of the group came from a marketing idea that each single would feature a choreographed music video with the steps printed inside the single.

Nostalgia seems to run in 20 year cycles, so it would seem like the right time for Steps to release a new album, Tears on the Dancefloor, and hit the road for a 22 city tour. And that's exactly what they've done.

Check out the perfectly 90s pop tune, "Neon Blue," below.

Music Video: Urban Cone "Old School"

Happy Hump Day! Bounce to this beat:

Swedish electro-pop band Urban Cone drops the music video for their latest single, "Old School," which shares a message of diversity and inclusion.

Via press release: With over 13.3M plays on Spotify, “Old School” is a youthful anthem that makes listeners nostalgic for the time when they were less connected technologically and more connected emotionally.

Out Music: Matt Zarley Talks On His New Album, "The Estrogen Sessions"

Award-winning out singer/songwriter Matt Zarley talks about his new album, The Estrogen Sessions, featuring his covers of his favorite music divas.

A Broadway veteran (A Chorus Line, Tommy, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat), Billboard charting recording artist AND People Magazine's first out "Hottest Bachelor," Zarley recorded this collection of songs as a tribute to the divas who have influenced his recording career.

The hunky singer was honored with "Best Album" and "Best Single" accolades for his album, Change Begins With Me, at the 2012 OutMusic Awards.

I often hear folks in the LGBT community say, "Why aren't there more out pop music artists? More really good out pop music artists?"

Well, here he is. Terrific voice, great acoustic arrangements of songs you know and love. What's not to like?

If you like pure, mainstream pop music, hit the play button below.

Listen in as Matt shares his covers of hits by Whitney Houston, Sara Bareilles, Celine Dion, Dolly Parton, Pink and more.

If you want to skip right to the music, the first song, "Gravity," starts around the 12:30 mark.

For more info about Matt, check out his official website at mattzarley.com.

Matt Zarley Honors Pop Divas With "The Estrogen Sessions"

Matt Zarley - The Estrogen Sessions

Just in time for International Women's Day, award-winning out singer/songwriter Matt Zarley releases his latest album, The Estrogen Sessions, in honor of the female pop divas most influential in his career.

The project, his first as producer, was born out of his web series, UnCOVERED, which features Matt reimagining popular songs, as well as filming a music video of each tune. Like many, Matt noticed he was not only drawn to, but relished, singing the hits of our female musical royalty.

"When it came to selecting the songs, it wasn't easy," admits Zarley. "I began choosing songs that had an impact on my life at some point, and artists that have either influenced or inspired me over the years."

Stripped down and primarily acoustic, Zarley's production work showcases the strength of the songwriting and his own effortless vocals.  "As I began to arrange these tunes, I made a conscience decision to strip the songs down and reinterpret them with all live music, nothing programmed - real piano, organ, guitar, drums, bass and strings," says Zarley.

The collection includes two duets: Tony Award winner Billy Porter (Kinky Boots) partners on the Des'ree hit,  "You Gotta Be;" and YouTube sensation Jeb Havens joins Zarley for Pink's "F**kin' Perfect."

"Billy and I have wanted to record together for years and we wanted to do a song with a powerful message, a message that felt relevant, and we did not want to do a ballad," explains Zarley. "This was the perfect fit and it's definitely one of my favorite songs on the album because I feel the 28 years of friendship between Billy and me in this song. I'm so thrilled that we have this moment forever."

The entire album is imminently listenable. The emotional landscape is soulful and wide, with each track showcasing Zarley's rich, fluid voice. He shifts from plaintive, affecting intimacy to expansive vocal brawn with equal ease.

Highlights include the Porter partnership, "You Gotta Be," wherein the duo hold court firmly at the intersection of sass and soul; "I Look To You," originally the lead single from Whitney Houston's final album, finds it's destiny in Zarley's powerfully inspiring rendition; and the spare but expressive "Gravity" is it's own quiet force of nature.  Additionally, I love the harmonies throughout - check out "The Heart of the Matter" for an example of expert sonic backup.

Now, about that title. As offbeat as it may sound to some, according to Zarley, it just felt right. "At the very least, I think it will spark some curiosity and it's 100% my sense of humor - as is the album's cover art," admits Matt. (Check the shadow behind Zarley in the cover photo.)

Track list for The Estrogen Sessions:

1. "I Will Always Love You" (Dolly Parton)
2. "That's the Way It Is" (Celine Dion)
3. "Gravity" (Sara Bareilles)
4. "You Gotta Be" with Billy Porter (Des'Ree)
5. "He Used to Be Mine" (Sara Bareilles)
6. "Together Again" (Janet Jackson)
7. "Take A Bow" (Rihanna)
8. "Always On Your Side" (Sheryl Crow)
9. "F**kin' Perfect" with Jeb Havens (Pink)
10. "I Just Had to Hear Your Voice" (Oleta Adams)
11. "Angel of Mine" (Monica)
12. "The Heart of the Matter" (India.Arie)
13. "I Look to You" (Whitney Houston)

Matt Zarley's The Estrogen Sessions is available on iTunes and other digital outlets.

For more information, visit MattZarley.com.

Listen to Zarley's take on "Gravity" and "You Gotta Be" below: