David Magazine v8_i17 | Let's Get Wet by David Atlanta Magazine

V8-17 04.24.24 Spring Pops and the Sound of Summer A (Swim)Suit For Every Occasion New feature! Our Unsung Community Heroes + Photos & More

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APR 24, 2024 V8-17 DAVID Magazine Peach Media 6050 Dawson Blvd, Ste O Norcross, GA 30093 MANAGING PARTNER PUBLISHER & OPERATIONS Brian Sawyer brian@davidatlanta.com EDITORIAL & SOCIAL MEDIA Editor-in-Chief Mikkel Hyldebrandt mikkel@davidatlanta.com SALES | EVENTS Josh King Josh@peachatl.com Russ Bowen-Youngblood info@davidatlanta.com CONTRIBUTORS Russ Bowen-Youngblood Jimmy Newsum NATIONAL AD REP Rivendell Media 908.232.2021 COVER Photo: Russ Bowen-Youngblood Model: Mauricio Outﬁt: Brushstrokes e content of DAVID Magazine is for your general information and use only. It is subject to change without notice. e opinions expressed by any writer, advertiser, or other person appearing in DAVID Magazine are not necessarily those of this publication, its management or sta . e information and materials appearing in the magazine are not guaranteed or warranted as to accuracy, timeliness, performance, completeness, or suitability of the information and materials found or o ered for a particular purpose. It shall be your responsibility to ensure that any products, services, or information available through DAVID Magazine meets your speci c requirements. DAVID Magazine is not responsible for claims made by advertisers, content of information, changes, events, and schedules. e magazine contains information and material which is owned by or licensed to DAVID Magazine, including but not limited to articles, advertisements, design, layout, graphics, and logos. No part or portion of DAVID Magazine may be reproduced in any way without the prior written consent of the publisher. Unauthorized use of DAVID Magazine may give rise to claims for damages and or criminal o enses. Your use of the information or materials in DAVID Magazine is strictly at your own risk. ONLINE davidatlanta.com PRINT At Distribution Points Across the City SOCIAL FB: davidatlantamag IG: @davidatlantamag 12 18 27 I N T H I S I S S U E DAVID 08

Let’sWETget WET WET Let’sWETget Let’s get

Edited

Photo: Russ Bowen-Youngblood

Models: Mauricio, Josh

Outfit: Brushstrokes

by Mikkel Hyldebrandt

As the temperature rises and beach season approaches, it’s time to refresh your swimwear wardrobe and dive into the latest trends. From classic briefs to trendy board shorts, there’s a style of swimwear to suit every taste and occasion. Here’s a guide to help you ﬁnd the perfect swimwear for your next beach day or poolside hangout.

Classic Briefs

For those who prefer a sleek and streamlined look, classic briefs are a timeless choice. These snug-ﬁtting swim trunks oﬀer minimal coverage and maximum style, making them a favorite among fashion-forward LGBTQ+ men. Look for bold colors, vibrant patterns, or playful prints to add a pop of personality to your poolside ensemble.

Swim Briefs

For those who dare to bare a little more skin, swim briefs are the ultimate choice. Also known as “Speedos” or “budgie smugglers,” these form-ﬁtting swim trunks oﬀer minimal coverage and maximum freedom of movement. Whether you’re hitting the lap pool or soaking up the sun on the sand, swim briefs are sure to turn heads and make a splash.

Bikini Swimwear

For LGBTQ+ men who love to make a statement, bikini swimwear is a bold and daring choice. These skimpy swim trunks feature a lowrise waist and high-cut legs, offering a sexy and revealing look that’s sure to command attention. Whether you prefer a classic black bikini or a colorful printed style, embrace your confidence and strut your stuff with pride.

Swim Trunks with Mesh Lining

For added comfort and support, consider opting for swim trunks with built-in mesh lining. This breathable fabric helps to keep you cool and dry, making it perfect for long days at the beach or pool. Look for swim

trunks with adjustable drawstring waistbands for a customized ﬁt and added security.

Board Shorts

If you’re looking for a more relaxed and casual vibe (read: kinda straight, possibly bro-y), board shorts are the way to go. These knee-length swim trunks feature a loose, comfortable ﬁt and are perfect for lounging on the beach or catching waves in the surf. Opt for a pair with a fun print or eye-catching design to showcase your individuality and sense of style.

No matter which style of swimwear you choose, the most important thing is to feel conﬁdent and comfortable in your own skin. Embrace your individuality, express your personal style, and make a splash this summer with stylish swimwear for gay LGBTQ+ men.

BY JIMMY NEWSUM Photos: PR

Spring Pops and the Sound of Summer!

Spring isn’t traditionally known as a big time for new music releases, but this season’s offerings are bigger and better than ever. A batch of major A-listers are delivering highly anticipated albums: from the Queen Bee’s Cowboy Carter and Taylor Swift’s The Tortured Poets Department to new music from Dua Lipa, Normani, Billie Eilish, and, of course, Ariana Grande’s Eternal Sunshine

It can be tough for an indie musician to get their tunes heard in such a crowded field, but these are the gay artists and their new tracks that are breaking through the noise. And no, we’re not only talking dance floor music! These performers are serving hits in pop, jazz, and even country music, ya’ll.

Wils

“Dancing Lights”

The latest - and last! - release from the Singapore pop singing sensation is an uplifting dance track that tackles issues of self-esteem and insecurity and promotes a message of selfempowerment and embracing inner beauty. It presents a moodier and more subdued hue than “Open Up Babe”

and past songs from the artist, but Wils’ use of vocal effects and vintage synths really drive the song’s powerful message home. “Dancing Lights” is extremely raw, and depicts Wils as a vulnerable, relatable individual who is finally emerging from a dark hole of depression. Along with the single, the accompanying visual captures the essence of grief and its final stage of acceptance. Wils became famous ten years ago for being the world’s first openly gay Chinese pop singer. “Dancing Lights” is a stunning finale from an artist who has announced this will be his final music release.

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Johnny Bloom

“Roarin’ 20s”

So Fierce Music/The Orchard/Sony Music

Young Johnny Bloom is ushering in a new age of jazz with this unconventional diddy inspired by music from the early and mid-twentieth century. Think Ella Fitzgerald and Marvin Gaye meets Miley Cyrus, and Adam Lambert. “Roarin’ 20s” harkens back to a post-war era when young people were dancing to the Charleston and the Shimmy. Bloom gives his track a modern twist. The song is fun and flirty, with an attention-grabbing swing that mixes elements of blues, ragtime, marching music and African folk rhythm. An impressive debut.

Jace M and Toy Armada (featuring Joey Diamond)

“Waiting for Tonight”

Queen House Music

Dance music producers Jace M and Toy Armada are putting their own spin on Jennifer Lopez’s club-ready 1999 track, with the help of out artist Joey Diamond. Few are aware that Lopez’s version was also a cover. The song was originally released by girl group 3rd Party. JLo upped the tempo to 125 BPM; Jace M and Toy Armada crank up the energy even higher by combining Diamond’s exuberant vocals with lots of heavy drums and full synths. This celebratory staple is the perfect happy antidote for all of the anxiety many of us are feeling over the pending national elections. It is destined to be a song of the summer.

Tom Goss

“Not My Problem”

The pop/rock banger tells the true-life story of Tom’s five-year relationship with

a con man who is now serving time in prison. It is a bit angstier than “Nerdy Bear” and Tom’s other popular tracks. “Not My Problem” acknowledges the heartache and pain Goss experienced after learning the truth about his ex; but, in true Tom Goss style, the singer manages to find a bright spot in the experience and the song is lively and yes, playful. Even more fun is its accompanying music video that stars drag queen Meatball as an overly amorous prison guard. Another home run for Tom Goss.

Brian Falduto

“Why’d You Come in Here Lookin’ Like That?”

Brian Falduto’s remake of Dolly Parton’s “Why’d You Come in Here Lookin’ Like That” is the adorable out singer at his sassiest and most irresistible. The song is fast-paced, and raucous, just

like Dolly’s. Her version objectified cowboys in ways they weren’t used to at the time, and Falduto’s remake does too, but in a more modern way that is sure to keep the strappin’ fellers on their toes. Accompanying the song is a music video that features Dan Amboyer from Younger and Uncoupled as a rugged Marlboro man. He plays the scoundrel that has the audacity to come into the honky tonk lookin’ like that and let’s just say that Brian Falduto won’t be the only one hankering to saddle up on him.

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10 Questions

Community

By Mikkel Hyldebrandt Photo: Russ Bowen-Youngblood Russell Bowen-Youngblood

Introducing our new article series shining a spotlight on the unsung heroes of the Atlanta LGBTQ+ community. In this series, we will celebrate the individuals whose impactful work plays a crucial role in shaping and strengthening our community. From activists to dedicated volunteers and professionals, these unsung heroes embody the spirit of resilience, compassion, and advocacy that defines Atlanta’s LGBTQ+ landscape.

Join us as we delve into their stories, learn about their passions, and uncover the profound impact they have on the lives of those around them. We start with photographer Russell Bowen-Youngblood who has been documenting Atlanta’s nightlife for decades.

Tell us how you got involved in the LGBTQ+ scene? I moved to Atlanta in 1999. On one of my first days here, I went to the local photo lab on the corner of Tenth and Piedmont to get some photos printed. I had shot a Britney Spears and *NSYNC concert in St. Louis and wanted prints to send back to some friends in St. Louis. When he printed the pictures, the owner asked who I worked for, and I told him I just moved here. He shared that David Magazine needed a photographer, so he called the owner and had him come down to the lab and meet me. I thought this would be an excellent way for the new kid in town to meet people, photographing the nightlife, so I started about a week after moving here. The role expanded into advertising sales, and so my Atlanta media career began – and 25 years later, I am still at it. I started my own company, Alphabet Soup Marketing, in 2021 to work with all the gay media companies in town. After so long in the business, I have worked with about everyone at one point or another. It’s a small world in midtown.

You have been documenting Atlanta’s gay nightlife for decades. What are some of your most signiﬁcant accomplishments? I think I have been able to record at least part of our community history for the last quarter century. I have been fortunate to have worked with David Magazine, Eclipse Magazine, Southern Voice Newspaper, The GA Voice Newspaper, Q Magazine, the Project Q Website, Goliath Magazine, Peach Magazine, and had my work in the AJC Magazine, Genre Magazine, Out Magazine, and Instinct Magazine. In that time, our community has faced discrimination, hate crimes, and intolerance. For many of those stories, I provided the images. I don’t think I have fought tears more than the day the reporter and I sat with Matthew Shepard’s mother just a couple of years after his death. That was really a tough one for me .

Among my biggest highlights was getting to meet John Lewis and photographing him during a one-on-one interview with a reporter. Going to the Millennium March in Washington DC and being among the thousands and thousands of people and recording that event is another. And when same-sex marriage became legal in Georgia, capturing all the celebrations across midtown and then going down to City Hall to photograph some of the first same-sex marriages performed by the judges.

It’s hard to pick and choose highlights and accomplishments when you think every day you’re out there recording history is a good day. The thousands in our community I have captured out and about has always been something I am proud of doing.

Looking back, how was the Atlanta nightlife scene when you made your beginnings? And changed? You know, it’s hard for me to really say what it was like for me at the beginning because it was

at my beginnings, too. I did not come out until later in life so everything was new and exciting for me. It was a world of new experiences. When you ask how it has changed, I’m not really sure that it has changed all that much. I mean, clubs have come and gone, but when I look at the people I photographed then and now, over the 28 years, everybody’s pretty much looking for the same things. They’re out meeting new friends and then building memories with them, looking for the tribe to which they belong for acceptance, and I don’t think that part has really changed that much. The styles and trends have definitely changed. When I look back at some of my early pictures of big club shots, everybody’s got their shirts on, or most people. It’s definitely not that way anymore, at least on the dance floors. Hey, I am not complaining.

Who are some of your heroes or role models within the LGBTQ community, and why?

I think of two people. The first was another photographer named Tim Wilkerson. I first became aware of his work at a gay pride before I moved to Atlanta and was blown away. He became my point of reference for who I wanted to be. Tim took my first staff photo for David Magazine. When I thought of Atlanta, I always thought of him as the photographer of gay Atlanta. Tim has passed away but left his images. That is the legacy of a photographer.

The other person is Jeff Graham with Georgia Equality. He has been fighting for our community’s rights for decades; it is an endless job. I am fortunate to have a camera between myself and the hate and prejudice when I have found myself at protests. Jeff deals with these issues face-to-face with no barriers and no nets. I am definitely proud to call him one of my heroes.

How do you see the Atlanta LGBTQ community evolving in the future, and what role do you hope to play in that evolution?

I have heard I-285 referred to as the Fruitloop, meaning that all the gays can be found within that perimeter. I don’t believe that’s as true anymore. Our community is expanding past our midtown center. However, with acceptance, the need for a self-contained community starts to diminish. We become assimilated into the “normal populace, “and soon, gay neighborhoods and centralized areas are not as necessary.

As far as my role goes, I hope to continue to record the good times, along with the struggles and victories we have as a community. I also hope that there is a young photographer who sees what I do and is looking to replace me so the next generation will have someone to record their history.

Is there anything else you’d like to share or any message you’d like to convey to our readers about the importance of community involvement?

Be There! You don’t have to march in the Pride Parade on Peachtree Street with a rainbow flag, but I think it’s important to be on the sidewalk, a witness to that parade, to show your support, and to lend your voice. If you can, volunteer at local nonprofits, and if you can’t volunteer, support the mission with a donation. But being present is still my biggest priority. Online does not replace inperson.

Faces @ Friend’s

More (& larger) online at davidatlanta.com

Photos by: Russ Bowen-Youngblood

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MY SISTER’S ROOM mysistersroom.com

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Photos by: Russ Bowen-Youngblood

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