Q&A: Jade Starling
Photo by Gretchen Johnson
Jade Starling may be best known from her Pretty (“Catch Me I’m Falling”) Poison days. But in recent years the Philly native and current Jersey girl has become an outspoken advocate for LGBT rights, appearing at events in Philly and around the country.
This Friday, April 13, Starling is making a special appearance at Adesso (1519 Walnut Street, 215-587-7000) in honor of “Eighties Night.” Not only will she preview her new album, which is out this summer, but she’ll sing a few old favorites and her new anthem “Dance Revolution.” The event also features the sounds of D.J. Jimmy DePre and a photo opp by HughE Dillon, a Philadelphia magazine columnist and founder of PhillyChitChat.com.
We sat down to chat with Starling about the Big 80s, her passion for the gay community and why she has never forgotten her early fan base.
You’ve been a special guest at many LGBT events in recent years (hello, Brooklyn Pride). Why is the community important to you?
The LGBT community is passionate about music, fashion and civil rights – all of which have been very important to me in my life. They have always embraced me as an artist and supported my music.
Why do you think you have so many gay fans?
Because I’m lucky like that.
A lot of people remember you from your Pretty Poison days, but what new projects are you working on these days?
I have been working on a brand new album called Captive, which is set for a summer 2012 release. All of the songs were co-written and produced by my longtime writing partner in Pretty Poison – Whey Cooler. Along with some international help from remixers such as Universal France recording artist Franck Dana, Captive is a very current record and will hopefully be well received.
What’s the first single?
The first single is “Dance Revolution,” featuring an infectious groove and clever spin on the Occupy movement. It’s currently exclusively available on Google Play, with a wider release planned to coincide with the video release in the coming weeks.
You may live on the other side of the river, but when you’re in Philly – how do you like to spend your time?
I live for the Gayborhood!
Why is it important for straight friends of the LGBT community to speak out for equal rights?
It’s important for straight friends of LGBT to speak out for equal rights because the word “friend” by its very nature denotes support. Friends of the LGBT [community] who don’t support the cause for equality are fake friends.
If you could pass along a message to younger gay fans today – what would it be?
Be proud of who you are. This generation can really make a difference, so support each other and change the world for there is gold at the end of the rainbow.
Eighties Night, April 13, with happy hour (5-7 p.m.) and free cover before 8 p.m., Adesso, 1519 Walnut Street, 215-587-7000.
