OUTLOUD: Raising Voices

OUTLOUD: Raising Voices began as a live event concept to give a platform to up-and-coming LGBTQIA+ musicians. It was set to launch at SXSW as a PRIDE artist showcase, but when the festival was cancelled, the producers at JJLA pivoted the already-scheduled show to launch as a PRIDE celebration web-series on Facebook, utilizing the existing show line-up as a two-part pilot episode. Each episode features a celebrity host, special guests, up-and-coming acts, one established headliner, and places a spotlight on the important advocacy work of PRIDE organizations around the US. JJLA booked talent and confirmed organizations to tell the story of PRIDE in a year where many festivals had been cancelled due to COVID-19. When protests against systemic racism in America began, OUTLOUD went dark in solidarity with its partners at Facebook and the music industry. In yet another pivot, the show messaging shifted to include support for the Black Queer & Transgender community. Hosts included recognizable names like NSYNC’s Lance Bass, Drag Race winner Bob The Drag Queen, transgender actress and activist Candis Cayne, as well as Grey’s Anatomy star Jake Borelli. Headliners for the season included Betty Who, JoJo, Vincint, Parson James, and Amara La Negra. Names like Kesha, Greyson Chance, Tori Spelling, Jai Rodriguez and Leslie Jordan made appearances on the show to talk about PRIDE and introduce an act. Audiences were encouraged to support their local pride organizations, as well as other non-profits fighting to make change. Many show participants also reminded audiences of the importance of voting in this year’s election. OUTLOUD began to establish itself as at-home entertainment that utilized its voice to elevate and support important social causes. OUTLOUD: Raising Voices concluded its first season with impressive numbers, totaling nearly 1m views across its nine episodes. Press coverage included nearly 1.3 billion impressions from ABC News, Billboard, MSN, Yahoo, and more. In addition, OUTLOUD: Raising Voices was awarded a Model D Award for Best LGBTQIA Programing by Cynopsis and was also recognized with a Silver distinction for Best Use of Facebook in the Shortys Social Good Awards.