If You Like: Prince, Frank Ocean, Miguel
We are living in an age of cultural and sexual exploration. As we advance as a society, it seems things are moving forward in terms of a more accepting nation. Queer people are finally being heard in the highest positions and demanding their roses along with it. From Lil Nas X to King Princess and everyone in between, the music industry is starting to see a cultural shift not seen since the emergence of Kurt Cobain and the grunge era.
An even tougher shift is the one of a major actor to make waves in the music industry. Talented acts like Donald Glover, Jamie Foxx, Zooey Deschanel, Ariana Grande, and Will Smith are just some who have successfully transitioned from one industry to the next. The talented Keiynan Lonsdale is the latest actor to try his hand at music, making waves with pure raw vocal prowess.
Keiynan Lonsdale played the iconic Wally West on the hit CW show, “Flash.” His on-screen presence shined through and he instantly became a fan favorite during his tenure on the show. As his role decreased, many wondered where Keiynan Lonsdale would reappear next. In between takes, like Donald Glover on “Community,” Keiynan spent his time finding his sound. Find it he did.
Queer musical artist Keiynan Lonsdale blends soul, funk, R&B, and alternative rap elements to create a sound entirely his own. His music is raw, aggressive, and directed towards uplifting yourself. On his first album, Rainbow Boy, the theme of the project is all about uplifting everyone’s inner gayness and discovery against the backdrop of African beats and culture. Yes, as Keiynan Lonsdale sings on “Gay Street Fighter,” everyone is gay. Even your postman. Perhaps your dog too.
Standouts on the project like “Magic Mickey,” “Rainbow Dragon,” and “Destiny Road,” showcase Keiynan at his best. The production is top tier with the underlying tones of prime Prince projecting his voice across the border of the chorus. In other songs like “Chocolate,” “Play,” “We Are the Children” offer brief looks into the more soulful, bass-heavy side of Keiynan. The artist doesn’t shy away from letting you know he’s proud and gay as the album continues. Like many, he’s still trying to find his way in a society that doesn’t like outspoken queer leaders. But Keiynan Lonsdale was never one to follow the rules.
