Q-Music: Dance diva confessions By Gregg Shapiro Photo By Rafael Pavarotti Let’s be blunt here. Madonna has been desperately seeking a comeback following her misspent years on Interscope, which produced three inferior albums in seven years. Beginning with the embarrassing “MDNA” and concluding with the daring “Madame X.” Returning to the Warner fold, the label family that operated Sire during her early years, and then released her output through 2008, Madonna has released her

Pop artist, model, entrepreneur, and fashionista On Mekahel is turning up the heat for summer with two electrifying new singles tearing up gay dancefloors. By Mick Sandoval photo by Trevor Paul "Dose" is a sleek, adrenalinecharged pop anthem that captures the reckless thrill of the dancefloor. "Pu$$y" explores the confidencethat exists alongside vulnerability and self-awareness. "People already know me for making fun, high-energy dance music, but these songs feel different,"

By Gregg Shapiro Photo by Todd Owyong-NBC Modern rock pioneer Bob Mould is not one to sit idle. Over the course of his more than 40-year recording career, the gay musician recorded six studio albums with Hüsker Dü, two full-length albums with Sugar, and more than a dozen solo studio records. That doesn’t even include other projects such as those he recorded in the dance/electronic realm. In 2026, reunited with his former Sugar bandmates David Barbe and Malcolm Travis, Mould

By Ben Nelson Photo By Luke Forgeron Some brands chase the next big thing. Mounderwear is chasing the one thing that never goes out of style. The body-positive underwear and swimwear label is diving into Summer 2026 with Core Swim, a collection built on a refreshingly simple idea: less noise, more confidence. In a season crowded with prints, mesh, and maximalist everything, Mounderwear is making the case for restraint, betting that a perfect fit will always outshine a flashy

This is the most current schedule of drink specials, weekly events, and club happenings available to GRAB Magazine. Please note that dates, times, specials, entertainment, and other details are subject to change at any time at the discretion of each venue. This schedule is provided for reference only, and we recommend confirming details directly with the venue before making plans. Updated August 11, 2026 For corrections, updates, or additions to the schedule, please contact..

By Bill Malcolm There is always something new to explore in Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley. With a stunning view of snow-capped peaks from the desert floor, there is nowhere else quite as stunning. It also has a fun bar scene, lots of outdoor activities, a great art museum, swimming at the Swim Center, and more. It has also gotten expensive, especially during festivals and on the weekend. But there are ways to enjoy this desert oasis without breaking the bank. Like Wil

By Gregg Shapiro Photo By M Cooper Onstage, onscreen, on CD and vinyl, there doesn’t seem to be anything that Claybourne Elder can’t do. He’s even a dad to a young son! Elder is also having a good 2026, beginning with the release of his debut album, “If The Stars Were Mine” (Center Stage) in April. Comprised of songs from Broadway, new and familiar, as well as some contemporary pop chestnuts, the album presents Elder’s full range of interpretive talents. Additionally, since l

By Anthony Valenti Clark Samuel didn't set out to fill a gap in fashion. He set out to find a pair of jeans that fit — and when he couldn't, he bought women's denim, cut it himself, and hemmed it at home. That instinct, dressing for the body you have rather than the body the industry designed for, became the foundation of SAMMY. The Miami-based menswear brand has built a devoted international following around what Samuel calls "sensual minimalism"— a middle path between the b

By Gregg Shapiro Photo By by Alexa Viscus Released during Pride Month 2026, “American Rough” (Bloodshot) by queer singer/songwriter Andrew Sa isn’t just one of the best LGBTQ albums released this year; it’s also one of the best country albums. Possessing one of the most distinctive voices you’re likely to hear, Sa sings as if he were born to be crooning country tunes. Sa, who wrote or co-wrote nine of his debut album’s 10 tracks, infuses his performance with a nostalgic quali

By Bill Malcolm Imagine Denver but instead a city right next to the mountains where you can be skiing or hiking in 20 minutes. An outdoorsy climate with varied geography. Interesting neighborhoods and great transit. Friendly people. And very welcoming. And booming. With a great hub airport just 20 minutes from downtown via the TRAX Light Rail. Yes, that would be Salt Lake City. The nearby snow-covered Wasatch Mountain range provides a stunning backdrop to Utah’s biggest city.

By Gregg Shapiro Believe it or not, “Tainted Love/Where Did Our Love Go,” the groundbreaking debut single by synth-pop duo Soft Cell, celebrates its 45th anniversary in 2026. A medley of two songs from the early 1960s (“Tainted Love,” originally recorded by Gloria Jones and “Where Did Our Love Go,” originally recorded by The Supremes), the single, which remains in regular rotation to this day, helped cement the popularity of the new wave genre stateside. Queer lead vocalist M

By Gregg Shapiro Photo-By-Emma-Jones Not every artist who has kept us waiting for more than a dozen years for new music succeeds in recapturing their former glory. The good news is that not only has queer, British singer/songwriter Patrick Wolf delivered on the promise of his earlier work but exceeded all expectations with “Crying The Neck” (Apport/Virgin). Having survived an extremely difficult period, including the passing of his mother and becoming sober, Wolf wastes no ti

by Jamie Booth Lo Colby, a proud Hawaii-born Thai woman, was crowned Miss International Queen – USA 2026 in a dazzling finale held last month at Harrah’s Resort in Atlantic City. Celebrating the resilience, talent, and beauty of transgender women from across the nation, the competition culminated in a powerful moment as Colby’s extraordinary journey captivated both judges and audience, earning her the coveted title. A technology professional, accomplished performer, and beaut

The Charles Napa Valley is elevating the region’s thriving LGBTQ wine scene By Shane Gallagher Photo courtesy VisitNapaValley.com The opening of The Charles Napa Valley feels, at first glance, like the arrival of another beautifully restored boutique hotel in California wine country. But step inside the 1906 mansion and it quickly becomes clear that this isn’t just about design,history, or even luxury. It’s about visibility. And in a region long celebrated for its wine, that

By Gregg Shapiro Photo By Kelly Lawrence “Mighty Real: A History of LGBTQ Music, 1969-2000” (Viking, 2026), by gay music journalist Barry Walters, is a practically comprehensive overview of the presence, the impact, and the ongoing legacy of music made by and for LGBTQ folks. Part reference book, part memoir, the rainbow musical spectrum covered is particularly notable. Beginning with groundbreaking artists including Laura Nyro and Lou Reed (along with the Velvet Underground)

By Tom Olah Steamworks Baths is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2026. Steamworks was born when Rick Stokes and David Clayton, part owners of the Rich Street Baths in San Francisco since 1965, sold their interest there and, with investors, purchased Berkeley’s Mayan Baths. After a remodel, they opened the first “The Steam Works Baths” in 1976. Eventually changing the name to simply Steamworks Baths, the brand expanded to locations in Sacramento, Fresno, Honolulu, San Juan

By Bill Malcom Franklin Conservatory and Botanical Gardens Columbus, Ohio is an amazing and surprising city with much to like for the LGBTQ traveler. Two great neighborhoods with tons of gay bars, great restaurants, fun hotels and incredible attractions. ORIENTATION The Short North Arts District, as well as Italian Village, are just north of downtown and home to much of the LGBTQ community. Downtown, the Arena District, and Franklintown are also fun. Try pizza at Slammers and

Gregg Shapiro Out, English singer/songwriter Calum Scott first grabbed our attention almost 10 years ago with his striking cover of Robyn’s dance hit “Dancing On My Own.” Scott’s transformation of the song, from club classic to arresting ballad was astonishing. The nuanced rendition gave listeners a new way to listen to the song while also introducing us to a talented artist. Scott, who is coming to the U.S. for a multi-city tour in support of his latest album “Avenoir” (Capi

By Tom Olah Tom Olah: What did it feel like hearing your name called forPerformer of the Year at the 2025 Grabbys America? Adam Snow: When they called my name, everything slowed down for a second. Performer of the Year isn’t just about one scene – it represents consistency, work ethic, and the respect of your peers. I was genuinely shocked. I had prepared myself mentally to clap for someone else. So when it was me, I felt this mix of disbelief, gratitude, and responsibility.

By Michael Werth Before he was headlining films on KinkMen like Make Daddy Proud, Brogan was a self-described “good Midwest boy” growing up in Minnesota. He was athletic, quiet, and far more likely to be found on a hockey rink than in front of a camera. He followed the rules, stuck to “the plan,” and even built a successful corporate sales career in New York City. But when the pandemic upended his carefully mapped-out life, Brogan found himself at an unexpected crossroads. Wh