Trixie Mattel Calls Out Music Industry 'Glass Ceiling' for Queer Artists
Drag superstar Trixie Mattel revealed she's taking a break from making music and called out a 'glass ceiling' for queer artists in the industry. The Billboard chart-topping musician spoke about her shift from folk guitar to DJ work during a recent interview in Hollywood.
Drag superstar Trixie Mattel is stepping back from making music after hitting what she calls a 'glass ceiling' for queer artists in the industry. The Billboard chart-topping musician opened up about her struggles during a recent interview at California Donuts in Hollywood.
Mattel, who has 180,000 monthly Spotify listeners, plays guitar and autoharp and writes most of her own songs. She's made the jump from folk music to working as a DJ at major music festivals around the world.
The performer also revealed frustrations with record label practices, explaining how advances work against future album sales. 'You're like, Oh my god, that's more money than I could ever imagine, I could buy a house!' she said about initial offers. 'But it's an advance, which means that it goes against five album sales.'
Mattel said she's learned to stop caring about being 'taken seriously' in the music industry. Her song 'Two Birds and One Stone' was written entirely by her, showcasing the depth of her musical abilities beyond her drag persona.
Mattel's comments highlight ongoing challenges LGBTQ+ artists face in getting respect in mainstream music. Her experience shows how even successful queer performers struggle to be taken seriously, despite having real musical talent and commercial success.
Watch for Mattel's continued DJ performances at music festivals while she takes her break from recording new music.
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