In a world where cultural landscapes are constantly shifting, the influence of artists like Chappell Roan, Billie Eilish, and Kim Petras raises intriguing questions about the future. What might their impact be a decade from now? As Roan boldly ventures into country music as a gay woman, she challenges the genre’s historical associations with conservative values. This act of defiance mirrors a broader trend among artists who are reshaping cultural narratives. Lady Gaga’s recent release, “Mayhem,” serves as a powerful reminder of music’s ability to create safe spaces for marginalized communities, inviting them back into the spotlight at a time when political rhetoric seeks to push them into the shadows.
Jon Savage, an acclaimed British pop culture historian and journalist, offers critical insights into this evolving landscape. His new book, “The Secret Public: How Music Moved Queer Culture From the Margins to the Mainstream,” emphasizes the importance of understanding the transformative musical movements that have shaped LGBTQ+ history. In a time when anti-LGBTQ+ sentiments are resurfacing in political discourse, Savage’s work serves as a vital reminder of the revolutionary rhythms that continue to influence our world.
When discussing contemporary artists like Roan, Eilish, Gaga, and Taylor Swift, Savage envisions a future where women occupy more leadership roles beyond the music industry. He notes, “I’m a great admirer. And I would also observe that what’s interesting compared to what it was back in my day is the fact that the cultural leaders are now young women, which I think is very interesting and very positive.” This shift not only reflects changing dynamics in the music industry but also hints at broader societal transformations.
Savage’s book provides a historical account of LGBTQ+ contributions to music, asserting that music often precedes and shapes cultural shifts. He describes it as “a searching examination of the fortitude and resilience of the gay community through the lens of popular music and culture.” This perspective underscores the idea that music can serve as a powerful counter-narrative to oppressive political climates.
In his recent conversations, Savage elaborated on the concept of “antiphony,” where music and popular culture respond to oppressive systems. This call-and-response dynamic is central to his analysis of how LGBTQ+ communities have historically utilized music as both a refuge and a platform for expression. The notion that music can articulate what cannot be said in mainstream discourse is a recurring theme in his work.
Spanning 769 pages, “The Secret Public” is a comprehensive exploration of LGBTQ+ history from 1955 to 1979, a period marked by significant milestones such as the Stonewall riots. Savage emphasizes that this era was crucial for gay men seeking visibility and fighting against systemic oppression. The book serves as a testament to the resilience of the LGBTQ+ community during a time when their rights were severely restricted.
Reflecting on the current political climate, Savage acknowledges the urgency of his book’s release. He describes it as “an act of faith” in the face of rising anti-LGBTQ+ sentiments. The historical context he provides is not merely academic; it is a call to recognize the ongoing struggles faced by marginalized communities.
Beginning with Little Richard in 1955, Savage traces the evolution of LGBTQ+ representation in music. Richard’s journey, from coming out to retreating into the closet, illustrates the complexities faced by artists in navigating their identities. The book also delves into the impact of figures like Elvis Presley, whose provocative performances challenged societal norms during a time of rampant prejudice against LGBTQ+ individuals.
As Savage recounts his experiences growing up in the 1960s and ’70s, he reflects on the contradictions of that era. While many artists exuded confidence, societal prejudice often led to self-hatred and substance abuse within the LGBTQ+ community. This duality fuels Savage’s passion and anger as he documents the historical injustices faced by LGBTQ+ individuals.
One pivotal moment in the narrative is the partial decriminalization of homosexuality in the U.K. in 1967, a landmark achievement that Savage connects to the cultural shifts in music. He notes that many of the long-haired, boundary-pushing bands of the time were led by gay managers, whose influence permeated the music scene and contributed to changing public attitudes.
Savage’s inclusion of David Bowie in his narrative exemplifies the bravery of artists who challenged societal norms. Bowie’s ambiguous sexuality and willingness to embrace it publicly opened doors for many young LGBTQ+ individuals. Savage argues that actions should be judged by their results, and Bowie’s impact on the cultural landscape is undeniable.
As we consider the legacies of artists like Roan and Petras, Savage’s insights provide a compelling framework for understanding the ongoing evolution of LGBTQ+ representation in music. His work not only documents history but also serves as a reminder of the power of music to challenge oppression and inspire change.
