Country Queer

Lifting up LGBTQ+ voices in country and Americana.

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CQ Roundup, March 9th

S.G. Goodman. Photo Credit: Meredith Truax

This week’s Roundup includes loads of queer content, some heartache, a protest song, and many other treasures! Settle in for new releases from S.G. Goodman, Ezra Michel, Sam Kogon, Kate Cosentino, Aybil, Cameron Mackay, and Joy Clark.

— Sara


Song of the Week: “Teeth Marks,” S.G. Goodman

S.G. Goodman released her riveting new single, “Teeth Marks.” S.G. comments on the piece, “This is a song about the phantom limb of love: a condition in which a lover’s mind is deluded and we make the mistake of taking a step forward, only to fall face-first into the reality of another’s heart. A reality we are unwilling to accept – a land of false promise we find ourselves not equipped to walk in.” “Teeth Marks” is filled with stunning, visual lyrics like “When you left the bed/ After you bit my arm/ A little souvenir/ Where your teeth left marks.” This wildly attractive song speaks for itself. We’ll let you listen.


“Perfectly Trans,” Ezra Michel

Ezra Michel is not shy about sharing his experience as a trans man and declaring his pride. This one-minute song is straight to the point. Ezra actively normalizes queerness describing his experiences, declaring his beauty, and claiming love for his identity, his image, and for transness in general. The world needs more songs and artists like this. 


“Emergency Contact,” Kate Cosentino 

Nashville-based artist Kate Cosentino just released this irresistible indie-pop bop. “Emergency Contact” is Kate’s note to noncommittal millennials and Gen Zs. Kate told us, “I wanted to write a funny, danceable song that poked at our inability to ask for what we really want, whether it’s our food order or asking our partner if we’re serious.” We’ve got this one on repeat.

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A Honky-Tonk of Our Own

“American Body,” Aybil

Memphis-born, New Orleans-based singer-songwriter Aybil has always loved storytelling. For “American Body,” she imagined a sense of urgency and energy, with a touch of confusion, which is largely how this moment in American history feels. Aybil shares, “We all know there is disruption and agitation. There is a lot going on, but no one knows where we’re going. It’s not a song spelling doom, but it’s not a hopeful song either.”


“Frozen River (Extended Music Video),” Cameron Mackay

Over the COVID-19 lockdown, Cameron Mackay produced a collection of tracks inspired by green spaces in Glasgow, Scotland. The tracks grew out of traditional fiddle tunes and acoustic-based soundscapes. Cameron blends acoustic folk elements with electronic production, creating engaging compositions. This 12-minute music video celebrates the connections between music and the ecosystems we are deeply interlaced with. 


“Siren Song,” Jessye DeSilva 

Jessye DeSilva is a contemporary-folk artist pouring tunes out through a piano and their intimate vocals. “Siren Song” is a preview to their upcoming album, “Landscapes.” This intimate music video was filmed at The Record Co. in Boston, MA. 


“Good Thing,” Joy Clark 

Joy Clark’s newest release, “Good Thing,” is the journey of loving someone unconditionally, “Love me when I’m right/ Love me when I’m wrong/ Love me when I’m weak/ Love me when I’m strong.” This warm alternative-folk tune is about commitment, trust, and vulnerability. 


Got a great new song? Submit it to CQ!