In a much-anticipated reunion, acclaimed pop band Scissor Sisters are getting back together to celebrate the 20th anniversary of their explosive self-titled debut album. The trio of Jake Shears, Babydaddy, and Del Marquis will hit the stage once again, albeit without longtime collaborator Ana Matronic. As they gear up for this exciting new chapter, the band members sat down to reflect on their trailblazing career, challenges faced as openly LGBTQ+ artists in the early 2000s, and how the music landscape has evolved since their heyday.
From New York’s Underground to International Stardom
Scissor Sisters first made waves in New York City’s vibrant club scene, where their provocative and theatrical performances caught the attention of audiences and fellow artists alike. Their unique blend of electroclash, disco, and pop sensibilities, coupled with their unapologetic embrace of queer identity, set them apart from the pack.
The band’s breakthrough moment came with their audacious disco cover of Pink Floyd’s “Comfortably Numb” in 2002. The track propelled them to mainstream success, particularly in the UK where they became a refreshing antidote to the era’s dominant sounds. Shears reminisces:
The UK just felt very, very open to whatever weird thing came your way.
Jake Shears
Navigating the Challenges as an LGBTQ+ Band
Despite their massive success, Scissor Sisters often faced questions and scrutiny regarding the intersection of their music and their sexuality. In a less progressive time, the band members found themselves pushing back against being pigeonholed as a “gay band.” Babydaddy explains:
It was the catch-22 of being out – of being put in the box of being ‘a gay band.’ We were fighting against that.
Babydaddy
The band was careful not to let their sexuality overshadow their artistry, striving to be seen as legitimate songwriters and performers first and foremost. Today, with the rise of openly LGBTQIA+ superstars like Lil Nas X and Kim Petras, Shears reflects on how far the industry has come:
Someday, this is not going to be as big of a thing as it feels like now – in a good way. And it’s been so sweet to see that happen.
Jake Shears
Reviving the Scissor Sisters Magic
As they prepare to take the stage once more, Shears, Babydaddy, and Marquis are excited to reimagine their live show and reconnect with fans. Drawing upon Shears’ recent theatrical experiences, including a stint in Kinky Boots on Broadway and developing a musical with Elton John, the band is poised to deliver a fresh and captivating performance.
While they may not have immediate plans to record new music, the trio remains open to the possibility, focusing instead on the organic nature of their creative process and cherished bond. Marquis sums it up:
You can’t strategize with a band like us. We arrive as is.
Del Marquis
As Scissor Sisters embark on this new adventure, their reunion serves as a celebration of their groundbreaking past and a testament to the enduring power of their music and message. For fans old and new, the chance to witness these iconic artists back in action is an opportunity not to be missed.
