by Ashley Paskill
Rating: Rocking, yet personal
While What If The Sun isn’t a music debut for transgender rocker Lenny Zenith, it is the first album released entirely under his own name. Released to coincide with Pride Weekend, a portion of the proceeds from the album will go to organizations, such as Transgender Women of Color and Trans Lifeline, which benefit transgender individuals.
“I think it’s important for trans kids, trans individuals, to know that there are other people out there who are not just being trans, but are also writing and performing and being visible,” Zenith said in a press release.
Zenith’s musical experiences range from opening for acts such as U2 and Iggy Pop, in addition to releasing music with a wide variety of bands. His musical career, now spanning 30 years, shines in his solo debut, with his experience and expertise glimmering through each note of each song. Zenith’s voice is unique and authentic, and it is clear that he connects with every song on a personal level.
Each song tells a story that spans beyond his vast music career. Every song on the album has a story that goes with it and has a personal connection with Zenith. This is especially true when it comes to his experience with being transgender. In “Suddenly Someone,” he sings, “…a little bit of surgery and a pronoun change/to find your little spot along the gender range,” providing a glimmer of hope for other trans people of the world.
Not only is this album an inspiration for others who are transgender, everyone can find some level of hope and truth in this album. “Still I Rise” connects with everyone, encouraging all to love and accept themselves and embrace the beauty and hope of a new day. The song ends with a children’s chorus, passing on the torch of hope to the next generation of world-changers. The whole album is about taking risks and being unafraid to go all-in with something.
The album is available now via XYYX Records. The album was produced by Ray Ketchem and mastered by Alan Douches. Watch the music video for the track “Sunday Dress” below.
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