Out artist Stewart Taylor is back to ‘Even’ things up

Stewart Taylor is a man of many talents. This LA-based singer, songwriter, dancer, actor and model is back with a new single and video for the track “Even.”  

Stewart grew up in a small town outside of New York City, where he began writing songs and performing in local talent shows and Lower East Side clubs. Since graduating from Berklee College of Music in Boston, he's collaborated with Grammy-nominated songwriters and producers including Charlie Puth and Kara DioGuardi and has penned songs for, among others, American Idol‘s David Hernandez, and RuPaul’s Drag Race’s Jujubee, Mo Heart and Manila Luzon.

His new song, “Even,” is an explosive dance-pop anthem inspired by a tumultuous relationship. Driven by honest lyrics and compelling visuals, “Even” explores the rollercoaster of love and conflict, capturing the highs and lows of a relationship headed for the rocks. 

Stewart describes “Even” as a “pre-breakup song” that dives into the complexities of relationships. “The language of the heart is tricky,” he explains. “You can be very much in love with someone and end up on opposing teams.” Through the song, Taylor navigates these contradictions, highlighting the frustration and longing that comes from constantly trying to “get even” with a partner. The song’s message about love and accountability resonates as Taylor ultimately advocates breaking the cycle of pain through personal responsibility rather than revenge.

Accompanying the release of “Even” is a music video that’s a creative triumph in its own right. Directed by his longtime friend and collaborator, Benjamin Farren, the video combines special effects, animation, and vibrant styling to depict a relationship as a literal video game. Taylor and his on-screen partner battle through various levels of emotional and mental challenges, their every argument and manipulation taking them deeper into a virtual reality they can’t escape. The visual storytelling aligns with the song’s intensity, with scenes that bring his lyrics to life, such as “it’s like you’re on a mission, stacking ammunition, instead of just forgiving.”

We had the chance to catch up with Stewart and put him in the hot seat for another round of the Socialite Seven.

When did you know that you wanted to become a singer? 

I knew I wanted to become a singer from a very early age. By the time I was seven, I had seen my older brother star in multiple musicals around our small town and that inspired me to finally get up onstage. I begged my parents to sign me up for theater camp and I haven’t stopped singing since. 

Who has had the biggest influence on your music and why?

Prince and Christina Aguilera have had the biggest influences on my music. Christina Aguilera’s debut album was one of the first CDs I ever owned and I sang along constantly. Her powerful voice and soulful style left an indelible impression on me. When I was twelve, a friend introduced me to Prince's music and I became absolutely fascinated with him. His music, songwriting, stage persona, and his outfits still inspire me to this day.

Photo courtesy of Stewart Taylor

Who (if anyone) would you love to collaborate with? 

I’d love to collaborate with Chappell Roan. She’s such a force of nature and so unapologetically herself. Her lyrics and vocals are fantastic and I love that she's inspired by drag queens! I’d also like to work with Omar Apollo. His music blends Latin Pop and R&B in a way that is really refreshing to me. He’s also a total hunk and I’ve been crushing hard. 

What type of music or artist that you listen to frequently do you think your fans would be surprised to learn that you're a fan of? 

I really love Goldie Boutilier. Her song “Cowboy, Gangster, Politician” was my most streamed song of 2024. Her country/rock style mixes classic glamour with dark subject matter, in a way that’s very reminiscent of Lana Del Rey. 

Photo courtesy of Stewart Taylor

What are you hoping to achieve with your music?

I hope my music, visuals, and lyrics inspire other people to be authentic and bold with their lives. Visibility as an out artist is extremely important in our current political and social climate. As long as I have a voice and a platform to share my music with the world, I am going to sing it LOUD. 

What are three things you can’t live without? 

Easy. My cat, my puppy, and my songwriting. 

Photo courtesy of Stewart Taylor

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?

As simple as it may sound, the best advice I’ve ever been given is to always come from a place of brutal honesty in my work. There were so many years in my teens and early twenties when I wasn’t showing up as my full, authentic self. The moment I stopped being scared to tap into my truth and my vulnerability is the moment I unleashed my power. That’s something I will never stop celebrating.

“Even” is available on Apple Music, Spotify, and all digital platforms. The video is available on Vevo and YouTube. Follow Stewart on IG and TikTok @imstewarttaylor and stewarttaylorofficial.com.

Last update on 2024-12-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API