Tyler Childers: Embracing Risks in His Triumphant Return

Tyler Childers and Silas House: Telling Queer Love Stories in Appalachia

A Bold Move

Tyler Childers, known for his grassroots country music, is taking a bold step with his new album. Titled Rustin’ in the Rain, the album includes a song called “In Your Love,” which tells the story of a queer love affair between two miners. Childers collaborated with his friend, Silas House, a noted author and Kentucky poet laureate, who wrote the video for the song. The video, featuring gay Hollywood stars Colton Haynes and James Scully, depicts the love story set in a Kentucky holler. This move is significant as it challenges the norms of country music and presents queer love as a part of the Appalachian story.

A Message of Empathy

Childers and House aim to send a message of empathy and inclusivity with their work. House emphasizes that stories like this are not political, but human. They wanted to showcase the diverse experiences within the Appalachian community and highlight the joy that can be found in rural, working-class lives. By representing queer love in a positive and normalizing way, they hope to combat the negative stereotypes often associated with rural areas and provide a sense of belonging to LGBTQIA+ individuals in these communities.

The Power of Specificity

Childers and House believe in the power of specificity when telling their stories. They draw inspiration from their own lived experiences in Appalachian communities, focusing on the details and authenticity that make their work resonate with audiences. Childers uses imagery as a tool to immerse listeners in a specific place and time, avoiding clichés and allowing the listeners to feel a connection. House adds that specificity can rescue artists from cliché, pointing to moments in their video where small details evoke deep emotions.

Taking Risks and Allyship

Childers acknowledges the importance of taking risks and being an ally. He recognizes that as an artist with a platform, it is essential to stand up for what he believes in and support marginalized communities. He mentions his cousin, who is gay, as a significant influence on his decision to create a video that speaks to the LGBTQIA+ community. However, Childers also acknowledges the potential backlash and the risk of being misunderstood. He hopes that his work will engage in meaningful conversations and challenge societal biases, ultimately paving the way for change.

Appalachian Stories in Modern America

Childers and House discuss the significance of Appalachian stories in contemporary America, particularly in the post-Trump era. House believes that readers and audiences crave these narratives, but also acknowledges the stereotypes associated with the region that can lead to misconceptions. He believes it is important for artists to present authentic and nuanced portrayals of Appalachia, avoiding clichés and showcasing the region’s diversity. Childers adds that reclaiming elements of Appalachian culture and highlighting its beauty is crucial for fostering a sense of pride in the region.

The Role of Music in Spreading Social Messages

Childers recognizes the potential of country music in spreading social messages and effecting change. He mentions artists like Margo Price and Steve Earle, who have been outspoken in their music about social and political issues. However, he also acknowledges the challenges and risks associated with speaking out, as country music often promotes a particular nostalgic image that may not always align with an artist’s values. Despite the potential backlash, Childers remains committed to using his music as a form of tithing, a way to give back and shape the world he hopes to see.

The Impact of Tyler Childers and Silas House

Childers and House’s collaboration signifies a significant shift in country music, challenging traditional narratives and bringing marginalized voices to the forefront. By telling queer love stories in Appalachia, they are expanding the boundaries of what country music can represent and fostering a more inclusive and empathetic community. Their work inspires meaningful conversations and encourages other artists to embrace their authenticity, challenge stereotypes, and contribute to social change through their art.