Jennifer Lopez, the artist formerly - or latterly (we can't keep up!) - known as J-Lo, delivered a powerful message of LGBTQ+ liberation during her headline performance at the World Pride Music Festival, on the grounds of RFK Campus in Washington, D.C. Speaking to an up-for-it crowd, she declared, 'We are singing and dancing right here on their front lawn, misbehaving. Yes, we are.'
Lopez took the opportunity to express her heartfelt gratitude to her queer fans, acknowledging, 'Over the years, your love and your support have been a source of strength for me, and today I am here to celebrate you.' The theme of freedom resonated throughout her performance, as she articulated the fundamental right to self-expression. 'We all have the right to be who we want to be, the way we want to live,' she said. The poignant cover of George Michael’s Freedom! featured the Gay Men's Chorus of Washington, coinciding with visuals of LGBTQ+ icons like Marsha P. Johnson.
In an additional highlight, Lopez unveiled her new Pride anthem, I’m Free - which in the UK will always resonate as gay shop assistant Mr. Humphreys' catch-phrase in the sit-com Are You Being Served? - with lyrics that embrace freedom and love. Later in her set, she introduced a song from her upcoming musical film, Kiss of the Spider Woman.
The broader festival included performances from a star-studded lineup featuring figures like Troye Sivan, Paris Hilton, Trisha Paytas, and others, with events spanning two days aimed at celebrating diversity within the LGBTQ+ community. As well as concerts, the festival featured art installations and immersive experiences designed to honour cultural contributions and foster unity among attendees. Committed to uplifting the community, the event's proceeds are designated to benefit the Capital Pride Alliance and local LGBTQ+ organisations.
Source: Noah Wire Services