Jessye DeSilva’s comeback to songwriting in middle age results in an album of queer empowerment songs
Jessye DeSilva’s latest album, “Glitter Up the Dark,” is a celebration of queer joy and resilience. Despite being a trans musician navigating a tumultuous political climate, DeSilva’s music shines with infectious energy and warmth, transporting listeners to timeless spaces of punk shows and drag performances.
DeSilva’s journey to creating this album is a testament to her versatility and passion for music. Raised in a minister’s family in rural New Hampshire and New Jersey, she dabbled in punk bands before pursuing classical music and musical theater in college. Moving to Boston in 2017, DeSilva found her voice as a singer-songwriter, marking a significant return to songwriting after a 20-year hiatus. Her music career took off with her debut album, “Renovations,” which garnered attention as a queer Americana release.
“Glitter Up the Dark” showcases a new side of DeSilva, embracing an edgy rock sound brought to life by producer Aaron Lee Tasjan. Tasjan’s influence as an openly queer artist adds a unique flair to the album, challenging mainstream norms with their glam-folk style. Through powerful tracks like “Fringe” and “Life on Earth,” DeSilva tackles themes of acceptance, transformation, and resilience, resonating with a wide audience.
Despite facing anti-LGBTQ legislation and personal challenges during the album’s production, DeSilva’s music exudes joy and defiance. In response to adversity, she emphasizes the importance of holding onto joy as a form of resistance. Drawing inspiration from books like “Glitter Up the Dark: How Pop Music Broke the Binary,” DeSilva infuses her music with vibrant imagery and personal anecdotes, creating a rich tapestry of queer experiences.
DeSilva’s artistic journey reflects a broader conversation about authenticity and representation in the music industry. As a queer artist, she navigates the fine line between staying true to her identity and avoiding pigeonholing. Embracing her queerness as a universal and human experience, DeSilva’s music transcends boundaries, resonating with audiences from diverse backgrounds.
Through her music, DeSilva invites listeners into her world of punk rock, queer joy, and unapologetic self-expression. With “Glitter Up the Dark,” she not only celebrates her own journey but also uplifts the voices of the LGBTQ community, spreading a message of hope, resilience, and belonging. As she continues to make waves in the music industry, DeSilva’s music serves as a beacon of light in challenging times, reminding us all to embrace joy and authenticity in the face of adversity.