Conor James has already won over the hearts of millions with his show-stopping performances on NBC’s The Voice. James started the show off with a bang when all four judges turned around for him during the Blind Auditions, now he is headed to the Playoffs Round!
James, who is competing on Team Adam Levine, spoke with GLAAD about his decision to perform this iconic LGBTQ anthem by Chappell Roan.
“The song conveys innocence, joy, and freedom as protest to a darkening world. I love the story of leaving home for the city and pinker pastures; even though it’s uncomfortable and scary, once you’re there, it becomes clear that it was the only option all along,” he told GLAAD. ‘That experience of leaving home for New York came with tons of joy and excitement for me but also lots of guilt and hardship. I felt that Chappell told that story candidly and beautifully so I was so glad to sing this song on the show.”
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He spoke more about what the song means to him as a member of the LGBTQ community, saying, ‘I’m just in awe of Chappell for challenging boundaries, not only by thriving in the industry as a queer artist, which is historically difficult, but also by speaking out against problems that plague the entire ground level of the industry. I’ve been doing this for a decade and have lived so many of these systemic problems she’s talking about.”
He continued, “I think she’s fearless, and a large part of being queer is being fearless. As a queer person (ESPECIALLY A TRANS PERSON..PROTECT THE DOLLS) enjoying life is protest. Pink Pony Club is about enjoying life despite every force against you doing so.”
James spoke a bit about his decision to join Team Adam, “I chose Adam Levine by going with my gut! All four coaches made incredibly compelling cases for me to choose them, and it was dizzying. When it was time, I took a breath and chose Adam because I’ve always admired his career, and I knew he would be best fit to amplify my artistry.”
Watch this GLAAD Exclusive sneak peek of his performance of Chappell Roan’s “Pink Pony Club,” airing Monday night on “The Voice,” only on NBC:
James talked more about his experience working with Levine on the show thus far. “It’s been unforgettable. He’s incredibly smart and aware, and has given me tons of insights on how to elevate each performance I’ve done on the show. He’s picked interesting and challenging material for me when it was up to him, and I trust him to see and amplify my artistry. He has such a knack for picking unique talent: Lucia, Kolby, Britton, Ethan, and myself being his top 5 shows that he has a sharp eye and strategy.” He added, “I respect him a ton and I’m so glad I picked him as my coach.”
Now, heading into the Playoffs Round, with only 20 contestants left, James shares what his younger self would think of where he is today, saying; “Of course you did! Get it girl!”
He offered some advice to up and coming LGBTQ artists, saying, “Whatever the thing is that you think makes you unlikeable or ugly or weird, that’s your personal sauce! That’s the thing that people are going to love. When you create things, you may hate them for a while because you’ve been taught to hate you. But if you keep going, with time and patience and commitment to yourself, you’ll start to see that your unique view of the world and your ability to reflect it is the thing people love. Let go and let yourself make stuff.”
To close, James teases some upcoming projects he’s working on! “I am so excited to make more announcements about this but for now, let’s just say that the girls will be well fed this summer! I have been working hard and can’t wait to share.”
Don’t miss Conor James on NBC’s The Voice! The Voice Season 27 Playoffs begin on Monday, April 28, at 8/7c on NBC and is available for streaming the next day on Peacock.
