Semler broke boundaries as a queer artist in the Christian genre on iTunes. Their journey through faith and queer identity lead to an EP filled with songs that addresses these themes. Late Bloomer explores identity deeply finding the answer in humanity. I was able to ask Semler questions I had about faith and queer identity.
Do you think that being raised as a Christian impacted the genre/style of music you make?
Absolutely. Most of the music brought into our home was Christian music so that was my earliest understanding of what themes could be explored through musical expression. The first songs I wrote on my own were all just very bad impressions of whatever was hot in CCM.
What led you to pursue writing music that is about faith/religion?
I didn’t set out to write a Christian record. But over quarantine I had to face some uncomfortable truths about my life and upbringing that I hadn’t yet confronted. By the end of this process I realized so much of what was on my heart were these expressions and questions of faith. I would say the writing process sort of pursued me – not the other way around.
Do you feel as though being the first queer person to hit number 1 on the Christian iTunes chart is a good sign for the future of queer Christians?
I think it’s an encouraging step in the direction of inclusion and visibility for queer people of faith. But I think we have a long way to go. I’m the first openly queer person to hold the position – but historically there’s a lot of LGBTQ+ erasure in CCM.
Your lyrics are very personal. Do you think the people you know through church listen to your music and pick up on references that someone else would not?
I’m not sure what their experience is with my music. I just try to write from a place of honesty. Once a song is out into the world it doesn’t belong to me anymore. It becomes shared and open for interpretation.
What are your musical plans for the future? Another EP? An album?
I would LOVE to record a full length album someday – and hopefully soon.
Which song on Late Bloomer is your favourite, and why?
It’s so hard to pick a favorite. I’m so boring like that. Each song holds a very special place in my heart. I guess today I’ll say “Prodigal Girl” but that’s just my mood today.
Who is the one artist you would love to make a song with? Your dream collaborator, living or dead.
Too many to list! You know, I’m a huge Carly Rae Jepsen fan so even if our genres are different I’m gonna go with her.
Do you see growth within the Christian/Inspirational genre for you as an artist?
I think it’s too soon to tell. My goal is just to be honest with the season of life that I’m in – which is one of faith and doubt and discovery and hurt. So far these expressions have fit within the Christian/Inspirational genre. Hopefully in doing so, I can help create more space for others who are navigating a similar season. That’s as long term as I’m thinking right now.
Does your queer identity ever have you questioning your faith? Have you reconciled the two identities?
I’ve certainly had my moments of questioning. I’ve had my own journey to unpack harmful anti-LGBTQ+ theology. I have reached a point of not only reconciliation but joy. Learning about affirming theology was hugely impactful and I recommend any queer people of faith who are struggling to check it out.
Do you ever feel a disconnect from your younger self (the person you were, the friends you had) to the person you are now? Do you miss parts of your younger self?
It depends on the day and the memory. I miss being carefree on a playground – who doesn’t? I have to do extra work to extend kindness to the person I was in my early twenties and late teens. I feel very different from her, but I understand that I needed to go through some things to love myself today.
Which Christian artist do you look up to and are inspired by?
Jon Foreman has always been a huge inspiration for me as a songwriter.
Which queer artist do you look up to and are inspired by?
These days I’m listening to a lot of Joy Oladokun and Julien Baker. They’re both incredible.
If you had to listen to one artist for the rest of your life, and no one else, who would you pick?
Good grief. What a concept. I’ll go with my ride or die Carly Rae Jepsen again.
The biggest one. What are some of the struggles you face being a queer Christian artist? How do you deal with that?
It’s always hard to be in uncharted territory. I wish the genre was open to including queer voices. I believe God hears our prayers and I know our music is being found. The community we’ve built has been so encouraging. Of course there are challenges and naysayers, but more than that it’s just a lot of love and hope and fun.
Semler will be supporting Relient K on a tour that begins in February. I cannot wait to see what Semler releases next. Maybe a Carly Rae Jepson and Semler collaboration?