Submission by Kaysey Crump, TNG’s new queer music columnist

Cody Crump is a Los Angeles based singer-songwriter and – full disclosure, TNG readers – also my super-awesome baby brother. He recently released a music video for his song “Life Will Go On,” an anti-suicide anthem that we both felt would be a great addition to the “It Gets Better” video series. Cody took some time to discuss being a straight ally to the gay community, his music, and why he loves going to church with his older sisters.

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The New Gay: When did you decide that you wanted to be a musician?

Cody Crump: After playing music for a couple of years, mainly as a hobby, I decided to pursue music as a legitimate career, and I believe I was fifteen.

TNG: “Life Will Go On” is a powerful message that we all need to hear from time to time. What inspired the song?

CC: I was having an awful day, haha. But, really, I think it was a bunch of uncertainties and negative experiences compounding on each other, and they all kind of came to a head on that certain day. I needed something to pick myself up, so I turned to music.

TNG: What inspires you to write music?

CC: Everything. All the daily events that either myself, or those around me go through. Good things, bad things, anything that strikes an emotion, is something that can be translated into music.

TNG: Who are your musical heroes?

CC: A few of my all time favorites would be: Brian Wilson, Paul Simon, and Trent Reznor. And my favorite composer of all time is Rachmaninoff.

TNG: How has West Hollywood been treating you? Do you miss things about Denver?

CC: I lived in Weho for my first couple of months here, and it was great. I still spend a lot of time there due to work and friends. It is a very friendly community, lots of people were willing to help me out, but I guess it can’t hurt to be a young guy in a predominately gay community, haha. And the thing I miss most about Denver would be my friends.

TNG: As a straight ally who grew up in a small rural town what do you have to say to young gay kids out there growing up in similar areas?

CC: Growing up in that kind of environment, I understand that a lot of people have negative views on homosexuality, and in a lot of cases, they exhibit abusive actions and behavior towards gay kids. So, I think it is best to keep in mind that things ARE changing, and there are plenty of communities out there that support you.

TNG: Do you think your generation will be the one to finally legalize gay marriage?

CC: Yeah, I think there is no question that the legalization of gay marriage will be the next domino to fall, but I also think it is wise to keep in mind that there are many more to go.

TNG: What would you like TNG readers to know about your upcoming releases or shows?

CC: Well, as of now, I have three albums written and finished recording. We have begun the mixing process, hopefully that will speed up soon, and we can get them finished, and available for listeners. So I would say probably within the year, at least one or two of them should be done. One is acoustic, kind of along the lines of the song “Life Will Go On”, another is completely different (very very dark electronica), and the other is something completely different from both of those. What I can say, is that they are all really, really good, and I am very proud of them. Also, if anyone wants some music you can email me – codycrump@gmail.com, and I will send you a link to download songs for free.

TNG: And finally: what’s your favorite thing about your oldest sister?

CC: What I like most about my sisters (yes I have two older sisters and have to say both here) is when we go to church on Christmas Eve and feel equally miserable sitting through the godawful worship songs, year after year after year, haha.

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