Pride 2017

Magic, heartbreak and going commando: NY’s DJ Lorant has done it all at Pride

Pride season is upon us, and this year we’re ringing it in by spotlighting the folks who make us proud to show up to work each day — the artists, activists, performers and personalities who make our community shine.

Lorant Duzgun is a New York based DJ and producer, and owner of Royal Advisor Records (RAR). The label’s roster includes LGBT artists such as Will Sheridan and AB Soto.

What are you working on right now that brings you pride?

I’m getting ready to play Folsom East with my good friend Chauncey Dandridge. It’s my second year doing it, so I’m excited. Musician Will Sheridan, who’s on my label, is co-hosting — so it’s gonna be a family affair with a thousand men and women in leather harnesses coming along for the ride.

Describe your first Gay Pride for us.

I saw Kristine W. play the saxophone at Twilo. It was like being in Wonderland — magical and a little scary, but I was home.

What’s been your most awkward Pride moment?

I don’t know about awkward, but I’ve had heartbroken Prides before which sucks because it’s one of my favorite weekends of the year. Don’t let anybody do that to you. Enjoy your Pride!

What Pride is on your bucket list?

Probably someplace where it hasn’t reached ginormous sizes yet. I’m sure Buenos Aires would be a lot of fun.

How is Pride different this year?

With everything from the backwards ways of the Trump administration to the autocracies in Chechnya, this year is one where we remember why Pride started in the first place.

The gay community is like no other in that we always stick together and get things done.

Whether it’s religious zealots or AIDS or desperate politicians, so many things try to fuck with us.

They all fail and will always continue to do so.

What’s the ultimate Pride song?

“Pride (A Deeper Love)” by C&C Music Factory. It may seem like an extremely obvious choice but this is my favorite vocal house song from that era, if not ever. It’s amazing.

What’s your ideal Pride outfit?

When I was first started going to clubs, I used to have a T-shirt that said “Pride” on it in Chinese. I used to think it was the coolest thing. My favorite Pride outfit now is going commando. The last Sunday of June is usually very hot.

 

Photo credit: Mateus Porto

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