Yungblud talks about sexuality, authenticity, and Madonna’s influence on new album
Yungblud is acutely aware of his ability to divide opinions, a fact he readily shares mere minutes into our conversation. “People either love me or absolutely hate me, either believe in me wholeheartedly or not at all,” he asserts. Despite his evident success with three number one albums in the UK, including a BRIT Awards nomination for British Male Solo Artist in 2021, Yungblud has never attended said prestigious awards ceremony. He attributes this to his refusal to conform to the mainstream idea of what is easily digestible music. He proudly identifies himself as a disruptor, unafraid to express his thoughts genuinely, grounded in real human experiences and emotions, rather than chasing numbers, popularity, and financial gains.
Dominic Harrison, known professionally as Yungblud, is yet another figure in the music industry who positions himself as a rebellious force against the status quo. His persona exudes both charisma and candidness, evident from our meeting at a Soho venue. Despite his accomplishments with two UK chart-topping albums under his belt and an impending release of the highly anticipated fourth LP, “Idols,” the infectious energy and unfiltered dialogue he brings to our discussion are unwavering.
Harrison’s openness about his sexuality has been a recurrent theme in his narrative, extending beyond his initial emergence eight years ago as Yungblud. From identifying as “more straight” with fluid tendencies, to embracing a full spectrum of pansexuality and polyamory, he has undergone significant personal growth. Finding solace and acceptance within the LGBTQ+ community, he now proudly asserts his identity and comfort in navigating the nuances of his sexual orientation. Being recognized as a Pride Icon at the PEUGEOT Attitude PRIDE Awards Europe serves as a validation of his journey and the inclusive environment he strives to cultivate in his fan base, the Black Hearts Club, and events like Bludfest.
Shortly after the successful second edition of Bludfest, Yungblud released “Idols,” an ambitious double album project. Contrasting with his previous work’s brevity, the LP kicks off with a grandiose nine-minute rock spectacle, “Hello Heaven, Hello.” Delving into introspection and raw storytelling, tracks like ‘Lovesick Lullaby’ and ‘War’ present a blend of Britpop swagger and emotional balladry. Yungblud’s musical evolution continues to captivate audiences with his unique blend of fearless honesty and captivating storytelling.
Through his music and unwavering authenticity, Yungblud has carved out a distinct niche in the music world, pushing boundaries and redefining what it means to be a rock icon in the digital age. His refusal to conform to industry standards and commitment to sharing genuine stories and emotions set him apart, garnering a dedicated following of fans seeking refuge in his inclusive and affirming community. As he continues to defy expectations and pave his own path, Yungblud remains a testament to the power of being fearlessly true to oneself in an often artificial and curated industry landscape.