Fancy Hagood, “former pop diva turned country queer icon,” is back with a brand new single and an emotional accompanying music video.
Watch “Southern Sound” here:
“I think it is an important story to tell because it’s a story happening to so many LGBTQIA+ kids in this country and beyond. I was inspired to make the video after so many horrible bills that were harmful to the queer community that were being introduced all across our country,” the out country musician tells GLAAD. “It’s important to shed light on this being a reality for some people. Additionally, I want this video to be enlightening to any viewers out there that may be watching it and going through something similar to know there is hope, community and resources.”
In the music video, Hagood plays the role of a bartender who helps the young couple find housing. Hagood says that character was inspired by “several people who were certainly a life raft for me.” He says that his work family at Forever 21 and his college RD Jessica were some of his biggest supporters when he was first coming to terms with his sexuality.
“Unfortunately, I have made many friends who have similarly lived this storyline and who have gone on to find community and I hope this allows people to know that’s out there for them,” Hagood says.
Hagood spoke about the importance of finding your chosen family, people who will “celebrate you at every stage.” He then spoke about Ford Fairchild, “a Nashville based queer creative who directed this music video. He did a lot to make this music video happen and it is simply the best when you can collaborate with your chosen family.”
Hagood talked about a Nashville based non-profit for unhoused youth called The Nashville Launchpad. “After learning what they’ve done and do for our community I wanted to help spread the word that there are people and organizations out there who want to help! So, we’ve created a landing page on my website that can hopefully be a resource to anyone in this position who doesn’t know where to start.”
Throughout his career, Hagood says he felt he “was too gay for Nashville and too Nashville for LA.”
“I feel like there are parts of the Nashville and the country music scene that are more open and embrace the the queer community. However, I think country music record labels, fans and community have a long way to go before I would call it truly accepting. It is important to me continue to break down barriers and create more space for people of all kinds in this format and beyond.”
Fans have a lot to look forward to from Hagood as he works on his sophomore album, tours with Brothers Osborne, and is “picking up a lot of steam and sees no signs of slowing down!”
Catch Fancy Hagood on tour at a city near you! Visit fancyhagood.com/tour.
Check out Hagood’s interview with GLAAD’s Anthony Allen Ramos from last year here!