Arts & Entertainment

Lauv releases long-awaited debut album

Published

6 years ago

March 7, 2020

***Lauv*** *(Image courtesy of Big Hit Entertainment / Donovan PR, photo credit: Lauren Dunn)*

Lauv, who has made a name for himself by racking up billions of streams for his independently-released music, has finally dropped an album.

The highly anticipated debut album from the rising pop visionary, titled “~how I’m feeling~,” features the previously released hit singles “i’m so tired…” with Troye Sivanand “fuck, i’m lonely” with Anne-Marie, alongside nineteen other tracks – including his most recent single, “Modern Loneliness, which debuted on February 2.

The anthemic new power ballad is described as “both a statement and a commentary on our current society, where we are increasingly ‘alone together.’ It has garnered over 15 million streams in only two weeks, and has reached #48 at Top 40 radio after being the most added song its first week of impact. On the heels of its success, Lauv made an appearance on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” Friday night, and is scheduled to appear on “Good Morning America” on Thursday, March 12^.

Lauv has managed to become one of pop music’s brightest rising stars without ever releasing an album, issuing his music independently and writing songs for some of the biggest stars in the world while simultaneously selling out shows all over the world as a headliner

Of his long-awaited debut album, the artist says, “I can’t believe this day has come. ‘~how i’m feeling~’ began from a dark time in my life when I was depressed and having a bit of an existential crisis. I wasn’t sure if I would ever actually be able to make an album. But it marks my journey from my rock bottom at the beginning of 2019 to a stable place of happiness, full self-expression and self-acceptance. This album is everything to me and I hope the world loves it as much as I loved making it.”

The album includes 11 previously unreleased tracks, and features several highly anticipated collaborations. Lauv paired up with the biggest group in the world, K-Pop sensations BTS, for the track “Who,” as well as with Alessia Cara on “Canada” and with Sofia Reyes on “El Tejano.”

Discussing the the collaborations, Lauv said, “With everybody I’ve worked with…Each situation shows me something new about the process of creation and how different artists work.” On working with BTS specifically, he added, “It was a fucking dream! I met them at their show at Wembley Stadium and we got a chance to talk. They had a playlist of a bunch of my songs. So we were mutual fans, and I played them a song they really loved. The process was actually super-easy, especially for a group that’s so massive musically and culturally.”

According to publicity materials, a central theme of “~how i’m feeling~” is “accepting and celebrating the multiple facets of ourselves.” Lauv has been open about his struggles with anxiety and depression and has taken action on the issue with his Blue Boy Foundation, an organization supporting programs “that help young people feel more comfortable reaching out for help with mental health.” In 2019, he launched the “My Blue Thoughts” initiative, a community building mechanism for fans to anonymously write down or record whatever is on their mind, as a way to engage with people around the world who may be having similar experiences.

The artist has also announced dates for his upcoming world tour.

You can listen to “Modern Loneliness” below.

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PHOTOS: Lambda Legal in the Pines

Fundraiser held at ‘Normal Heart’ house

Published

6 hours ago

July 31, 2026

Guest photographer

A scene from the 'Lambda Legal in the Pines' fundraiser on July 25. (Photo by Santiago Felipe)

The LGBTQ organization Lambda Legal held its annual “Lambda Legal in the Pines” fundraiser on Saturday, July 25. The event was held at a house on Fire Island featured in Ryan Murphy’s 2014 HBO film, “The Normal Heart.”

Organizers say over $500,000 was raised to support Lambda Legal’s national litigation and advocacy work.

(Photos by Santiago Felipe)

Out & About

Come showcase your singing, poetry talent

Spark Social open mic night planned for Aug. 13

Published

10 hours ago

July 31, 2026

Tinashe Chingarande

Spark Social will host “Open Mic Night” on Thursday, Aug. 13 at 8 p.m. (Washington Blade file photo by Michael Key)

Spark Social will host “Open Mic Night” on Thursday, Aug. 13 at 8 p.m.

Get ready to share your talent or just kick back and enjoy some great performances. This event is a fun, laid-back vibe where everyone’s welcome to take the stage. Sign-ups are first-come, first-served, but you can also DM Spark Social on Instagram to reserve a performance spot. Whether you’re a singer, poet, or comedian, this is your chance to get on stage and share your art. More details are available on Eventbrite.

Calendar

Calendar: July 31-August 6

LGBTQ events in the days to come

Published

14 hours ago

July 31, 2026

Tinashe Chingarande

Friday, July 31

Go Gay DC will host “LGBTQ+ Community Happy Hour” at 7 p.m. at DIK Bar. This is a chance to relax, make new friends, and enjoy happy hour specials at this classic retro venue. Attendance is free and more details are available on Eventbrite.

Saturday, August 1

Go Gay DC will host “LGBTQ+ Community Brunch” at 11 a.m. at Freddie’s Beach Bar & Restaurant. This fun weekly event brings the DMV area LGBTQ+ community, including allies, together for delicious food and conversation. Attendance is free and more details are available on Eventbrite.

Sunday, August 2

“Black Gay Flea: Summer Kickback” will be at 12 p.m. at Wunder Garten. This is a space created to celebrate Black LGBTQ+ creatives, artists, makers, entrepreneurs, and the community that shows up for them. Come spend the afternoon shopping with local vendors, discovering new brands, supporting small businesses, and connecting with people from across the DMV. More details are on Eventbrite.

Monday, August 3

“Center Aging: Monday Coffee Klatch” will be at 10 a.m. on Zoom. This is a social hour for older LGBTQ+ adults. Guests are encouraged to bring a beverage of choice. For more information, contact Adam ([email protected]).

Tuesday, August 4

The DC Anti-Violence Project will host “Soul Centered” at 7 p.m. at Thurst Lounge. This is not a dating event in the traditional sense. It is a space to meet kindred spirits, future collaborators, mentors, friends, or maybe someone who reminds you of what’s possible. Romance may happen, but it’s not the expectation. For more details, visit DCAVP website.

Wednesday, August 5

Job Club will be at 6 p.m. on Zoom upon request. This is a weekly job support program to help job entrants and seekers, including the long-term unemployed, improve self-confidence, motivation, resilience and productivity for effective job searches and networking — allowing participants to move away from being merely “applicants” toward being “candidates.” For more information, email [email protected] or visit thedccenter.org/careers.

Center Aging Women’s Social & Discussion Group will be at 6 p.m. on Zoom. This group is a place where older LGBTQ+ women can meet and socialize with one another. To register, visit the DC LGBTQ+ Community Center’s website.

Thursday, August 6

The DC LGBTQ+ Community Center’s Fresh Produce Program will be held all day at the Center. People will be informed on Wednesday at 5 p.m. if they are picked to receive a produce box. No proof of residency or income is required. For more information, email [email protected] or call 202-682-2245.

Virtual Yoga Class will be at 7 p.m. on Zoom. This free weekly class is a combination of yoga, breath work and meditation that allows LGBTQ+ community members to continue their healing journey with somatic and mindfulness practices. For more details, visit the DC LGBTQ+ Community Center’s website.