IT’S BEEN ALMOST A DECADE SINCE Angie Stone began uplifting audiences with her songs about self love and perseverance, a theme she brings to Atlanta for a Jan. 20 performance at the Utopia Lounge. The concert, produced by the Invictus Entertainment Group, is part of the gay festivities planned for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday weekend
The Grammy-nominated neo soul artist chatted with Southern Voice before her first trip to Atlanta during MLK weekend, and shared her affinity for gay people who strive to live life authentically.
Stone had to battle rumors in 2002 that she didn’t consider gay men to be “real men” — an accusation Stone says hurt her because gay men have always played such an important part of her life and career.
Several of Stone’s assistants are gay, and a gay songwriter penned her most successful single to-date, “Wish I Didn’t Miss You Anymore” on 2002’s “Mahogany Soul.”
As she readies for her performance at Utopia Lounge, Stone chats about spending MLK Weekend in Atlanta, the difference between gay and straight crowds, and the only girl she’s ever kissed.
Southern Voice: When you think of Atlanta, what are some of the first things that come to mind?
Angie Stone: I love Atlanta because it’s a lot of freedom here. In my opinion, I think it’s very, very full of a lot of black-owned businesses and a lot of positive energy in terms of bettering yourself.
Have you ever heard of a city celebrating MLK weekend like we do in Atlanta?
Absolutely not, and I’m excited. This is my first time going, and I’ve heard nothing but great things about it.
Is there a difference in singing for a mostly straight crowd versus performing at a gay club?
I think the energy is more genuine in the gay crowd. I think everyone has a genuine love for good music, and they’re positive and very supportive in terms of what they love.
Are there any people or moments in your life that influenced your views toward gay folks and gay fans?
One of my assistants is gay, and he’s one of the hardest working, most loyal cats I know in the world. He’s a very genuine, genuine friend, and I’ve had nothing but very genuine relationships with the people who are gay in my life.
Have you ever kissed a girl or had any curiosities?
Nope, never kissed a girl other than my daughter. I don’t have a desire to be gay or be a lesbian. I really don’t pass judgment on anybody that chooses that lifestyle, but that’s not for me. I am strictly — hello! (laughs)
Anything else you’d like to say to your gay fans?
I just want to say thank you in the biggest, heartfelt way for being a supporter, for understanding, for standing strong for positive, good, real music. And for just being yourself. Do you. Be happy, like I am. I am so happy being me, and everybody should be that way.
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