The Entertainment Bureau

QUEERS IN HISTORY: The encyclopaedia of historical LGBTQ+; A thousand and one short stories about prominent people from 2450BC to the 21st Century. In two volumes (A-K) and (L-Z), released on the 27 May, 2025.

2025 marks the 32nd anniversary of Queers in History, first released in 1993 on diskettes and later on CD-ROMs as the first widely available “new media” title in bookstores. Constantly updated, it was republished 16 years later in 2009 as a trade paperback, reflecting a time when many public figures began coming out, making it difficult to keep up with new entries.

Now, another 16 years later, this revised edition expands further with new figures, corrections, and a continued focus on a historical timeline spanning 5,000 years. Trans people have been included since the start, though earlier editions had omissions this update aims to address. The hardcover has outgrown the bounds of a single volume and must now be split in two parts (A–K and L–Z) by last name. This format will be easier for readers to handle.

One of the original intentions for Queers in History was that it should eventually become unnecessary. The hope was that the value of the contributions queer people have made and continue to make to society would become widely known and accepted. In the years following publication of the paperback, that seemed to be happening.

In 2025, however, we see governments erasing words like “trans”, “non-binary”, “gender” and “pronoun” from publications, websites, libraries, archives, scientific studies, schools and even the signage of national monuments like The Stonewall Inn. In the US, Executive Orders mandate dropping the “T” from LGBT+ (as if they didn’t exist) and promulgate the easily-disproved fiction that people are born and remain as one of only two pure genders. The “B” is next to go and eventually “L” and “G” too. It looks like there may be as much need for this book and more like it, as ever there was.

Critiques:

"A riveting ramble through queerdom."–Sir Ian McKellen
“This is history and dish garnished lavishly with innuendo, riddled with sarcasm and schmooze” — Wired Magazine
“History of Note” — USA Today
“If you’re looking for some real information, plunk down some spare change and buy 'Queers in History'” — Dan Savage
“Hot Stuff” — Buzz Magazine
“A faboo diversion” — The Village Voice
“A great addition to a reference section”—Feminist Bookstore News
"There's something for everyone in Queers in History"—Gay City News

Studio 204 and Lupe Aguilar Announce the Release of The Treasure Project featuring Lupe Aguilar’s Debut Single "Dreamin'.'" V4

Las Vegas, NV – Studio 204, in collaboration with renowned singer and performer Lupe Aguilar, is thrilled to announce the release of The Treasure Project featuring Lupe Aguilar’s debut single, Dreamin'’, the first track from an exclusive EP titled “The Treasure Project featuring Lupe Aguilar”, produced by the legendary singer, songwriter, and double Grammy Award-winning artist Barry White. “Dreamin’” will be released on the 11th April, 2025.

“Dreamin’” has a lovers rock pocket as well as the smooth Brazilian sound and feel of Sergio Mendes with the background vocals reminiscent of the late great Roy Ayers, alongside the stellar production values of Barry White, whilst topped off with the sultry melodic vocals of Lupe Aguilar.

This long-awaited EP, “The Treasure Project featuring Lupe Aguilar”, has been more than 40 years in development. Thanks to the expertise of acclaimed producer Karl KC Cousin, the first single “Dreamin’”will be released on 11th April, 2025 via Studio204Records.com.

A celebrated performer with a career spanning decades, Lupe Aguilar’s journey is a testament to resilience, independence, and artistic passion. Born into a musical family, her father, Pepe Aguilar, was an aspiring opera singer who moved their family to New York City after auditioning for The Metropolitan Opera House. Despite the challenges they faced, this relocation proved fortuitous for Lupe, who immersed herself in music, singing in choirs and glee clubs throughout her school years.

Following her studies at the High School of Art and Design, Lupe’s adventurous spirit took her across the U.S. and Mexico before she eventually settled in Houston, Texas. There, she worked as a background singer for Baba Thomas and The Light Men, a jazz group, before moving to California, where she continued to pursue her musical career.

Throughout the late 1970s and 1980s, Lupe showcased her talents as a background vocalist for War, Roy Ayers, and HB Barnum (Aretha Franklin’s arranger). She later joined the girl group CLASS before becoming a member of TREASURE, a group that caught the attention of industry veteran Robert Walker. Walker, who had worked in Barry White’s A&R department, collaborated with songwriter and lyricist Flery Bursey, who was also a member of TREASURE. Recognising the group's potential, Walker introduced their music to White, who was immediately impressed. However, after working together on five songs, creative differences arose over publishing rights. Ultimately, Barry White returned the masters to the group, saying, "Well then, consider this a gift."

Fast forward to November 2024, when Lupe was introduced to Karl KC Cousin at Studio 204 in Las Vegas by her close friend Audrey King Lewis. This meeting wasn’t just a chance encounter—it was the beginning of a long-overdue musical revival. With decades of experience and passion between them, Lupe and KC embarked on a journey to bring these lost recordings to life, fusing history with modern production techniques.

The result is an extraordinary project that not only pays homage to the past but also redefines the Cuban born, Lupe Aguilar’s legacy for a new generation. Stay tuned for the official release of Dreamin' on 11th April, 2025 and experience the magic of music that has stood the test of time.

Nicholas Martin to Release Debut Album Destello Azul on June 20, 2025

The long-awaited debut album Destello Azul by Nicholas Martin is set for release on June 20, 2025, via Azure Records.

Nicholas Martin, an evocative lyric tenor from the picturesque fishing village of Catalan Bay in Gibraltar and now based in North London, draws inspiration from the region’s azure skies and resonant echoes—qualities reflected in the haunting beauty of his expressive voice.  In Destello Azul ("Blue Flash" or "Sparkle"), Nicholas offers a heartfelt collection of romantic songs inspired by pivotal moments throughout his life.

With a voice that seamlessly transitions from delicate intimacy to soaring power, Nicholas blends raw honesty with profound emotion, creating a listening experience that is both captivating and unforgettable.

The album showcases a rich tapestry of musical traditions. Nicholas interprets beloved Argentinian tangos by some of the genre’s most celebrated composers, breathes new life into the iconic 1960s Puerto Rican hit "Puro Teatro" by Tite Curet Alonso, and delivers soul-stirring renditions of two romantic ballads—"Eres Todo En Mí" and "Sin Miedo a Nada".

The journey culminates with Hijo de la Luna ("Son of the Moon"), one of the most poignant contemporary ballads ever written by José María Cano. This haunting song tells the tragic legend of a Roma woman who, desperate to marry a Calé (Roma man), makes a heartbreaking pact with the moon—offering her first-born child in exchange for love.

Adding a personal touch, the album cover features Nicholas’s original acrylic painting depicting the alley where he lived in Catalan Bay. In addition to his vocal talents, Nicholas is also an accomplished visual artist. Visitors to his home can view an array of his oil and watercolor paintings, particularly his intricate depictions of birds.

Beyond his own artistry, Nicholas has had a distinguished career as a vocal coach. He has mentored numerous students who have gone on to perform in major West End productions. His notable protégés include:

• Siobhan Dillon: Finalist on How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria? (BBC1) and star of Sunset Boulevard alongside Glenn Close (ENO).
• Scott Folan: Lead in Be More Chill (West End).
• Zoe Gappy: Performer in Sinatra: The Musical at the London Palladium.

Through Destello Azul, Nicholas Martin invites listeners into a world of passion, longing, and timeless storytelling—delivered with his hauntingly beautiful voice that resonates long after the music fades.

Quote:

“Possessed of a hauntingly beautiful and unforgettable tenor voice, and a genuineness and disarming honesty in performance, Nicholas is undoubtedly destined for great things.”  Alan Blaikely, English Songwriter and Composer.

• David Marq: Reimagining Earth, Wind & Fire’s “Can’t Hide Love” as the soulful instrumental “You Can’t Love.”
• Rob Lee: Delivering a captivating rendition of “Monday Morning.”
• Sista Soul: Bringing her signature style to “Summer Love.”
• La Rombé: Offering a soulful interpretation of “I Swear.”
• Raymond Barton feat. Tyra Juliette: Unveiling the smooth and grooving “Always Kissing.”
• Bobby Caldwell & Jack Splash: Featuring the captivating “Game Over.”
• Monique Nikkole: Showcasing her powerful vocals in “Say Yes.”
• Leon Neal: Bringing the energy with his original composition, “Bounce.”
• Kathy Kosins: Reimagining Jimi Hendrix’s iconic “Foxy Lady.”
• Jazzy D feat. Amber Sweeney: Delivering the soulful and uplifting “Sweet Light.”
• Raymond Barton feat. Kia Bennett: Celebrating love with “A Beautiful Forever.”

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