By: Cassie Limberakis
CHICAGO– On June 3rd, 2025 I had the insane opportunity to be invited to my first press conference with Frankie Grande through 1824. This call was all about the release of his debut album “Hotel Rock Bottom” which comes out on June 27th. Grande is stepping into his musical persona and is incredibly eager to hit the ground running.
This album chronicles many different stories in Grande’s life. The song “Oasis” is about his husband being his own oasis in a harsh world. “Boys” celebrates queer and gay joy in the men’s locker room, a historically hypermasculine place. It is evident he pours his heart and soul into everything he does, whether it be through the medium of dance, music, or advocacy. Grande collaborated with an STD testing service called MISTR on his music video for “Boys,” to help bring awareness of the importance of STD testing.
“It is half art and advocacy.” Says Grande as he describes his career. “I don’t think I can actually separate the two.”
For decades, art and social movements have been effortlessly intertwined. The art we create imitates life and the world around us.
Grande wants to make the world a more equitable place for everyone, no matter who you are. “It’s ok to be exactly as you are.” He says.
Being a musician and a creative person is no easy feat. Grande explains this struggle by saying “Discovering my sound as a recording artist was very difficult for me. Music sonically dictates the story (of my album).”
He also talked about how difficult it is not to get too burnt out in the music industry by saying This industry is sucking me completely dry. Balancing life and having time for yourself is very important.”
I am excited to see Frankie continue to perform all around the country while being his beautiful authentic self.
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