Big Freedia’s New Gospel Album Celebrates Love and Community

Big Freedia, the renowned bounce music artist, is set to release her new gospel album, Pressing Onward, on August 8, 2024. This project marks a significant moment in her career, blending her roots in gospel music with her vibrant bounce style. The announcement comes after an emotional period for the artist, following the unexpected passing of her longtime partner, Devon Hurst.

During her performance at the Nashville Pride festival in June, Big Freedia engaged the crowd with her characteristic energy, inviting volunteers and a sign-language interpreter to join her in celebrating the music. She emphasized that her new album does not abandon her core audience but rather extends her love and support to all marginalized communities, particularly those within the LGBTQ+ spectrum. “This album is for us,” she declared, highlighting its dedication to those who identify as LGBTQ and love God.

The album’s lead track, Take My Hand, showcases gospel rhythms reminiscent of traditional church music, delivering a message of acceptance and love in a time when LGBTQ+ rights face significant challenges. Following the recent ruling by the US Supreme Court that upheld a ban on transgender youth healthcare, Big Freedia’s message resonates strongly within the community.

Reflecting on her early experiences in church, Big Freedia recalled how she was welcomed into the working-class Black Baptist congregation as a young gay boy. “From the first time I walked in the doors, they put their arms around me and gave me the biggest hug,” she said. Her upbringing in a supportive environment allowed her to embrace her identity and pursue her passion for music without fear of judgment.

Big Freedia’s journey into the world of bounce music began as she developed friendships with fellow artists who shared her vision of creating a platform for queer and gender-expansive expressions through music. Encouraged by her mother and church community, she embraced her calling, reassuring them that her pursuit of bounce music would not compromise her spiritual connection.

As she prepared for her performance at Pride, Big Freedia’s team gathered for a moment of prayer, highlighting the spiritual dimensions of her music. This blend of faith and self-expression is not new to the gospel tradition, which has long been enriched by the contributions of LGBTQ+ artists, although many have historically faced exclusion.

Despite the challenges she has faced, Big Freedia approached the creation of Pressing Onward with an open heart. The album features collaborations with artists like Parson James, who also navigated the complexities of faith and identity. Together, they crafted a sound that merges pop accessibility with profound gospel elements, including powerful choir harmonies and rich instrumentals.

Ashon Crawley, a religious studies scholar, notes the significance of Big Freedia’s work in reclaiming gospel traditions. “It demonstrates to the church: your excluding of us doesn’t have to be the end of our story,” he observed, emphasizing the importance of community and connection in overcoming adversity.

Originally slated for release during Pride month, the album’s launch was postponed due to Hurst’s passing, a decision that reflects the personal weight of her loss. “My whole life has just changed within this last month,” Big Freedia shared, expressing the emotional turmoil she has experienced. She felt compelled to continue with the album, believing it could provide solace to those facing their own struggles. “There’s always someone who’s depressed or going through a hard time,” she noted. “This album is not just for me – it’s for the world.”

As Big Freedia prepares to share her music with the world, she remains a beacon of hope and resilience for many. The release of Pressing Onward is anticipated not only as a musical journey but also as a testament to love, acceptance, and the enduring spirit of community.