The weather is finally getting warmer, which means one thing: pride season is rapidly approaching. (We know, we can hardly believe it either.) This year, we’re celebrating pride by teaming up with our friends over at Pitchfork for Night Out, a special concert at Knockdown Center in Queens, New York, on June 17.
Night Out will feature a genre-defying lineup of queer musicians. Headlining the event will be Tinashe, the multi-platinum R&B artist whose 2021 release 333 was the “freest, most exuberant album of her career,” as Pitchfork wrote in their review. Other performers include the Colombian Canadian pop artist Lido Pimienta, indie rockers Pom Pom Squad, and rapper Zebra Katz, as well as Papi Juice, Ariel Zetina, drag from Bushwig with Horrorchata and friends, and more. These artists, who all happen to identify as queer, demonstrate that what we think of as “queer music” contains infinite possibilities.
The event celebrates the impact of queer musicians and the safe havens that queer clubs provide. Them editor in chief Sarah Burke points out that “music and nightlife have always been about more than entertainment” for queer and trans communities.
“Nights out are opportunities to find acceptance and freedom — to be fearlessly and fully oneself,” Burke says. “This pride, our community needs that more than ever. We’re thrilled to bring together Them and Pitchfork’s mutual passion for uplifting queer artists, and to offer our LGBTQ+ audiences and allies a sanctuary in which to let loose and celebrate with top talent this June.”
Pitchfork editor in chief Puja Patel notes the publication’s belief “in the power of live music to change people’s lives.”
“Our shows, festivals, and events look to serve real fans, build community among them, and serve as an inclusive place for emotional connection, celebration, and catharsis,” Patel said. “And as queer artists and art have been formative to our own staff and musical histories, we are so excited to partner with our friends at Them for an event that emphasizes taking pride in who you are, allyship, and the work of some incredible musicians who do just that.”
Tickets for Night Out are $45 and are available today on DICE. When checking out, you’ll also have the option available to donate an additional $5 to the Transgender Law Center, the largest national trans-led organization advocating self-determination for all people. (And if you can’t join us for the concert, there’s nothing stopping you from slinging some cash their way anyway.) There will also be limited tickets available at the door for $50, so make sure you snag yours before they sell out.
Night Out is supported by Human By Orientation, an LGBTQ+ initiative from Max, Warner Bros. Discovery’s enhanced streaming platform, and bubly sparkling water. For the latest updates, check out Knockdown Center’s website. We can’t wait to spend a Night Out with y’all!
Get the best of what’s queer. Sign up for Them’s weekly newsletter here.