Peppermint’s Sound of Pride: An Exclusive Playlist, Powerful Allyship Call, and Journey to Unabashed Joy
As Pride Month illuminates the vibrant spectrum of the LGBTQ+ community, its significance transcends mere celebration, evolving into a crucial platform for advocacy and reflection. This June, **HollywoodLife** proudly presents *The Sound Of Pride*, a month-long feature dedicated to amplifying the voices of LGBTQ+ community members as they curate their essential Pride 2022 playlists. Today, we shine a spotlight on an extraordinary figure: the multifaceted artist **Peppermint**, renowned as an actress, activist, acclaimed singer, *Drag Race* alumna, and a true Broadway trailblazer.
Peppermint’s journey and activism consistently underscore the critical importance of allyship and understanding, particularly for the transgender community. In a candid interview with **HollywoodLife** in 2021, she powerfully articulated her concerns: “It definitely seems like the trans community is under attack.” This statement resonated deeply amid a troubling surge of legislation targeting transgender youth, including bans on gender-affirming care, restrictions on trans girls’ participation in sports, and the re-emergence of discriminatory bathroom bills across various states. While federal judges have successfully challenged and blocked some of these egregious laws, conservative legislators persistently introduce and pursue intrusive anti-trans legislation, creating an ongoing climate of vulnerability and fear for many.
Reflecting on the enduring struggle, the *Head Over Heels* star offered a poignant message of resilience to the queer community in 2021. She urged individuals to delve into their shared history, emphasizing that “if we learn about our history, we will see that there are stories of people in our community, our ancestors, fighting against the same type of oppression and worse, for so long. And so we will get through it. Many of these laws and policies are built upon the same cookie-cutter strategies; the same playbook from state to state.” Her words serve as a powerful reminder of the cyclical nature of oppression and the unwavering strength found in collective memory and resistance. This historical perspective is vital, empowering the community to recognize patterns and draw strength from the perseverance of those who came before them.
Revisiting this sentiment in 2022, Peppermint told **HollywoodLife** that her previous statement “actually thinks that speaks for itself,” underscoring the persistent challenges faced by the trans community. However, she also shared a deeper, more personal reflection: “However, I do recognize, as a Black person, how tired I was of trying to handhold folks through conversations about systemic racism. I’m beginning to feel the fatigue again, as I’m sure the rest of the community is. I won’t quit, but I sure wish more people would get up to speed with their intersectional thinking. We all deserve to feel unabashed joy this Pride.” This powerful statement calls for a more proactive and nuanced approach from allies, highlighting the exhaustion that comes from constantly educating others on fundamental human rights. It’s a plea for genuine engagement and a collective commitment to creating spaces where “unabashed joy” is not just a hope, but an accessible reality for everyone during Pride and beyond. This intersectional lens is crucial, as it recognizes that different marginalized groups face overlapping and interdependent systems of discrimination, requiring solidarity across all fronts.
For those seeking to become more effective allies and actively combat anti-trans legislation, numerous organizations offer invaluable resources. The ACLU provides a comprehensive running tracker detailing all anti-trans bills introduced across America, allowing individuals to stay informed about legislative threats in their regions and nationwide. GLAAD, a leading advocate for LGBTQ+ acceptance, offers a clear list of actionable steps individuals can take to support transgender equality, ranging from educational initiatives to direct advocacy. VICE also contributes to this vital effort with a list of practical ways to fight discriminatory legislation, empowering readers with concrete methods to participate in activism. Furthermore, The Trevor Project, a suicide prevention organization for LGBTQ youth, provides an essential guide to being an ally to transgender and nonbinary youth, focusing on empathetic support and understanding. These resources collectively equip individuals with the knowledge and tools necessary to be active, informed, and compassionate allies in the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights and equality.
Beyond her powerful advocacy, fans can also catch Peppermint showcasing her acting talents in Hulu’s delightful summer gay rom-com, *Fire Island*. The film, a modern queer retelling of Jane Austen’s *Pride and Prejudice*, features Peppermint alongside an impressive ensemble cast including comedy powerhouses **Bowen Yang** and **Margaret Cho**, promising a heartwarming and hilarious cinematic experience that champions LGBTQ+ narratives and representation.
As part of *The Sound Of Pride* series, Peppermint generously shares her personal playlist, a collection of songs that not only define moments of “unabashed joy” for her but also encapsulate the very essence of Pride. These tracks are more than just background music; they are anthems of resilience, celebration, and the enduring spirit of the LGBTQ+ community. Here are her picks, a vibrant mix designed to get everyone grooving and feeling the powerful energy of Pride.
Aretha Franklin, “A Deeper Love (Pride)”
Clivilles & Cole, “Pride (In The Name Of Love)”
Peppermint reveals the personal connection to these two classics: “These songs were the hit songs during one of my happiest Pride moments for me. These songs aren’t necessarily about Pride, but they are certainly in the spirit of it. ‘Pride’ and ‘In the Name of Love’ always get me grooving!” These tracks, with their powerful vocals and infectious dance beats, embody the exhilaration and communal joy often experienced during Pride celebrations, serving as timeless anthems that transcend their original context to fuel the spirit of solidarity and self-acceptance.
Ultra Nate, “Free”
Peppermint declares, “**Ultra Nate** is an icon in dance and house music, and her soulfulness soars on ‘Free’!” Indeed, “Free” is a quintessential anthem for liberation and self-expression, resonating deeply within the LGBTQ+ community and beyond. Ultra Nate’s powerful vocals, combined with the track’s uplifting house beat, create an undeniable feeling of joy and empowerment, encouraging listeners to embrace their true selves without reservation. Its enduring popularity at Pride events worldwide is a testament to its universal message of freedom and acceptance.
Kevin Aviance, “Alive”
Peppermint describes Kevin Aviance as “such a brilliant performer and usually has very dark and sultry music. This song is so light and carefree but still packs the Kevin Aviance punch.” “Alive” stands out in Aviance’s discography, showcasing his versatility while maintaining his signature intensity. Its infectious energy and vibrant spirit make it a perfect addition to any Pride celebration, encapsulating the feeling of triumph and vibrant life that the community embodies. It’s a track that effortlessly blends joy with a subtle edge, characteristic of Aviance’s unique artistic vision and impact on the queer music scene.
Peppermint on Pride 2022, New Music, and Horror Flicks
**HollywoodLife: What is the vibe of Pride 2022? What do you think will be the overall feel going into this month?**
Peppermint: Coming out of the pandemic where many didn’t have stable work and [are now going into] a renewed sense of community… my word is “prosperity.” This year, Pride feels like a powerful affirmation of collective growth and resilience. After years of isolation and economic uncertainty for many, there’s a tangible feeling of rebuilding and moving forward together. “Prosperity” for me signifies not just financial well-being, but a blossoming of spirit, a richness in community bonds, and a flourishing of self-acceptance that we all deserve. It’s about finding abundance in our connections and celebrating our inherent worth.
**You released *Moment of Weakness: Letters To My Lovers* this year. You’re also going on tour in July with the songs from the album and the short film, *A Girl Like Me*. What can fans expect when they see you on this tour?**
Peppermint: Previously in my music, I’ve been so guarded, afraid to be vulnerable and let people in. This is the real me. I want folks to know what brings me joy! This tour is a deeply personal experience, an open invitation for fans to connect with me on a whole new level. *Moment of Weakness* strips away those layers of protection, revealing a more authentic and emotionally raw side of my artistry. Paired with the short film *A Girl Like Me*, the show will be a multi-sensory journey, exploring themes of love, identity, and self-discovery. Attendees can expect an intimate evening filled with powerful storytelling, electrifying performances, and moments of genuine vulnerability that will leave them feeling uplifted and seen. It’s about sharing my truth and hoping it resonates with theirs.
**You list yourself a horror movie buff in your Instagram bio. What horror movies should fans binge during this June?**
Peppermint: One of my favorite titles is *Return Of The Living Dead* and (the 2004 remake of) *Dawn of the Dead*. And lastly, *Ready Or Not*, [though it’s] more a thriller than a horror. For Pride Month, these films offer a fantastic escape. *Return Of The Living Dead* has that classic punk rock energy and unique zombie lore, making it a cult favorite for a reason. The *Dawn of the Dead* remake is just a masterclass in tension and action, perfect for a high-octane watch. And *Ready Or Not* is a brilliantly dark and humorous thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat with its sharp wit and surprising twists. They’re all great choices for some thrilling escapism, proving that there’s always time for a good scare, even during the most joyous month.
Peppermint’s blend of passionate advocacy, groundbreaking artistry, and an unwavering commitment to joy makes her a beacon during Pride Month. Her chosen playlist and poignant messages remind us that Pride is not just a celebration, but a continuous call to action, fostering understanding, demanding equality, and creating spaces where every individual can experience “unabashed joy.” As she embarks on her tour and continues to break barriers, Peppermint exemplifies the vibrant spirit and enduring strength of the LGBTQ+ community.