Shamir’s new single “Gay Agenda” is empowering and unapologetic

At this point, it seems like there’s nothing Shamir can’t do. Following the release of his self-titled album in 2020, the multi-disciplinary artist has explored various other creative outlets with astonishing success. Over the summer, he released his first book, But I’m A Painter, and partnered with Urbancoollab, an AI design studio, to launch a clothing line called Bipolar Butterfly. Today, he shared his latest single, “Gay Agenda,” accompanied by a video directed by Jenny He. 

Keeping it local, Shamir worked with Hollow Comet of the Philly-based band Strange Ranger to produce the track. Shaking off all the hate that was holding him down, the single sees him emerge victoriously. With a booming drum machine echoing this feeling of freedom, his soaring vocals unapologetically announce his presence. Refusing to allow society to dictate his identity, he proclaims, “you’re just stuck in the box that was made for me / and you’re mad I got out and I’m living free.”

The music video shows Shamir donning horns and hoofs, making him look like a mythological creature roaming the city. Celebrating in the most Philly way possible, he grabs cheesesteaks with some friends who join him in dancing through the streets. A playful take on a serious theme, it perfectly matches the empowering energy of the single. 

Shamir will play his first in-person show since the beginning of the pandemic on October 17 at The Sultan Room in Brooklyn, opening for Lucy Dacus. He will also be opening for Dacus at her sold-out Philly show on October 20 at Union Transfer. 

You can stream the music video below and stream the track here.