Leon Waldo: Pushing Musical Boundaries by Embracing Queer Culture

Founder of The Closet Unlocked, Darius Caffey, interviews LA-based singer, songwriter, and producer, Leon Waldo. They discuss his experience with making music the way that he wants to, the details of his latest album (Queerwave), and how embracing his queerness has led him to newfound freedom of self-expression.

Leon explains that growing up in the choir and with music has been exactly what he needed to find his purpose. It gave him an outlet to grow as an artist and helped him find a place where he truly felt like he belonged.

As a Black, Gay man performing in the realm of pop, R&B, rap, African music, and dance, he’s pushing not only himself, but the culture to be more diverse. And he does it flawlessly.

By performing in clubs at a young age, learning how to play the piano, and creating his own record company (Waldo Warehouse, LLC), he has used his talents and Berklee College of Music experience to further his career.

In his recent songs ‘Just Say It’, ‘Heaven’, and ‘Hometown Stranger’ off of the project, he brings more culture and positive energy back into the world amidst the pandemic.

Towards the end of the interview, Leon shares the moments and memorabilia that have made him feel the most comfortable over time. This included an inspirational conversation with his high school theatre teacher, an oversized Stranger Things sweatshirt, and glasses that always boost his confidence.

He also mentions that he will be recording live performances of the album for fans to watch while we await a formal tour.

We're sure that you're going to keep watching, but if you also want to read the follow-up article, check it out here:

Queerwave, the album.

#StarterPack: Leon Waldo | Playlist

- Apple Music or Spotify

Follow @TheLeonWaldo

Check out Leon's other videos:

Walk Like That

Black Heart (Live)

Sundae Sunday (Live)

Heaven (Live)

Interview Host: Darius Caffey (@dcaffgotem)

Video Editor: Abriana Green-McCant

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*I Do Not Own the Rights to This Music*

Music in video: Curve Ball (Instrumental) - Xavy Rusan