Welcome to our monthly music feature, where we highlight a local artist and upcoming shows from local acts. From Juneteenth to hosting WorldPride, this June is all about the joy of diversity in identity and what better way to celebrate than through music?
🎙️ Spotlight: LYRICALMAR
Self-Described Sound:
Rap, Hip-Hop, House
Get To Know the Artist:
Artist LYRICALMAR was dead set on performing at WorldPride in D.C. — his hometown — this year.
“I probably emailed them 12 times,” LYRICALMAR confessed. “I really wanted to be a part of World Pride in Washington, DC, a place where I've grown up, a place that knows me and that I call home.”
Set to perform this Friday at the WorldPride Festival, the D.C. rapper and influencer looks to many artists for inspiration, but credits Lil Nas X for kickstarting his professional music career.
“With the release of ‘Old Town Road’ … Lil Nas X showed me there is an audience for what I do as a Black queer man in the music space,” LYRICALMAR said. “It’s what made me say ‘f-this I am doing it,’ and I’ve been happier ever since.”
With his latest EP “MARCHIVES” dropping last month, LYRICALMAR pulls from the early 2000s, mixing quirky pop beats with rapping to create danceable club tracks that are all his own.
LYRICALMAR (Courtesy of LYRICALMAR)
How do you normally celebrate Pride in the DMV?
It changes every year. The High Heel Race [in October] I usually do and the dance party at Echostage. D.C. is a good place to have Pride with all the activities and museums. I think this year is even more so. I'm working this time, so I won't be partying as much, but I know it's gonna be a lot of fun.
Do you think Pride in D.C. will be different this year with hosting WorldPride and the current political climate?
I think I can speak for everyone when I say Pride is Pride, no matter what the administration is, and especially in D.C. The girls are always gay, and the girls are always proud. All we really need is to celebrate ourselves.
Any teasers you can give about your WorldPride set?
I’ll be performing four songs, and three of them will be from my new EP “MARCHIVES.” It’s a pretty upbeat set. I'll bring out most of my dance numbers this time, and of course, I'll have my fabulous dancers with me.
The WorldPride Festival lineup is massive. When not performing, which artist are you most looking forward to seeing?
Paris Hilton. I've been following her forever, and I'm just so obsessed with how she's evolved.
Any must pack items for the WorldPride Festival?
Three handheld fans, rags for sweat when I come off stage, and a lot of water.
Which artists influence you the most?
I would say my biggest inspiration is Janet Jackson,with a mix of Busta Rhymes, Nicki Minaj, and Missy Elliot. For queer icons, I'm really proud of Lil Nas X and Doechii. They inspire me a great deal by sticking to their guns about what they stand for, what they write about, and who they protect.
How does the D.C. music scene shape your artistry?
D.C. artists don't get the credit they deserve. I'm inspired a lot by go-go music, even though I don't make it. There's a feeling behind it. The different neighborhoods, the way we dress, all inspires me. I think people who live here, whether you're in politics or music, want to put out the best.
Favorite local venue?
I would love to perform at the 9:30 Club. I have had so many laughs and tears and drunken nights there. It's ridiculous.
Where do you go to gain inspiration?
Mostly in the car with no music. I’ll just drive and let my mind wander.
Local artist shoutout?
Dior Ashley Brown, Pink Moni, and Bang Garçon.
Last song you listened to?
“Someone to Call My Lover” by Janet Jackson.
Next Local Show:
June 6 | 3 p.m. | 139+ | WorldPride Festival Unity Stage at RFK Festival Grounds
Follow:
Song to Check Out:
Music fest at RFK Festival Grounds where LYRICALMAR will be performing for WorldPride. (The Washington Post/Getty Images)
🎟️ Other Upcoming Local Shows To See
- Ella Gallogly, All Her Muses, mysteryband 🏳️🌈 (Indie) | June 4 | 7 p.m. | $15 | Takoma Spark
- RDGLDGRN (Alternative) | June 6 | 8 p.m. | $30+ | Songbyrd
- Ammonite, Pet Names, Jane O’Neill 🏳️🌈 (Folk-Rock) | June 14 | 8 p.m. | $21+ | Pie Shop
- JJ202, Keenan Orr, Geena Marie, Baronhawk Poitier, B_X_R_N_X_R_D (Black Techno) | June 20 | 11 p.m. | $15+ | DC9
- Peak Bloom, Night Hawk (opening for Cabin Fever) (Punk, Rock) | June 26 | 8 p.m. | $17+ | The Pocket
🎵 New Local Music Mentions
Catchy and perfect for summer, this hip-hop song is reminiscent of early aughts OutKast. Blending rap and alternative rock over a chill funk beat, there’s an effortless ease to the track that will make you want to listen poolside with an iced drink.
🎧 Your Local June Playlist
Check out this Spotify playlist we made, featuring LYRICALMAR’s songs and inspirations, plus music by the other local bands above.
