Dyllón Burnside, best known for his role in the acclaimed television series “Pose”, has launched his music career with the release of “Garden”, the inaugural single from his debut album, “Genesis”. The song debuted on June 1 to herald the start of Pride Month, reflecting a significant moment for Burnside as he embraces his own artistic narrative.
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In a conversation with PEOPLE, the 37-year-old actor explained that “Garden” not only marks the beginning of his musical journey but also signifies a turning point in his life. He described a deep-seated desire to share stories from his own perspective, stating, “I’ve spent the better part of a decade learning how to tell other people’s stories, figuring out how to make my voice fit in harmony with someone else’s vision, and I love that work. But now I have everything it takes to be the one holding this narrative.” The release of the single represents Burnside’s desire to own his voice and creatively express himself on his own terms.
“Garden” is a modern interpretation of the biblical narrative of Adam and Eve, crafted from Eve’s point of view. Burnside articulates that he aimed to create a poignant reflection on themes of intimacy and connection. He noted the importance of presenting a new version of this well-known story, particularly in light of the social and religious critiques surrounding queerness. Burnside commented, “So much has been projected onto that story to harm people. And I think there’s an opportunity to imagine another version of it.”
The accompanying music video further enhances the song’s themes, as it seeks to evoke a sense of duality—between darkness and light, temptation and surrender. He emphasised that the visual narrative is steeped in the “sacred nature of sensuality”, with a focus on the innate connection between bodies and the earth. “You’ll see the tree of life made of beautiful Black bodies, the leg fan unfolding in the same way that nature unfolds. It reminds us that we are all connected and we are all a part of nature,” Burnside elaborated.
Burnside’s choice to launch the track on Pride Month’s first day holds personal significance, as it reflects his journey toward authenticity both in his music and his identity. “That is what Pride celebrates,” he remarked, encapsulating the essence of creativity, humanity, sexuality, and love. He underscored the idea of having a “safe space” for self-expression, a core value embodied by the Pride movement and the community it nurtures.
With “Garden”, Burnside has expressed feelings of excitement and pride, viewing its release as an “inflection point” in his artistic trajectory. “I’ve spent all of my creative life trying to figure out how I blend artistry, entertainment, and making real transformative impact through art in my life and in my community,” he shared. This blending of personal artistry and broader social impact is what he envisions for future projects.
He elaborated that “Genesis” is set to serve as a framework for how he intends to engage with community issues and cultural dialogue through his artistry moving forward. Burnside’s earlier musical works include singles like “Heaven,” “Silence,” and “Superpowers”, but “Garden” stands out as a pivotal moment in his career.
As a celebration of identity and resilience in the face of adversity, Burnside’s “Garden” is more than a mere song; it is a declaration of self and a reaffirmation of the beauty in vulnerability and connection. Now available for release, “Garden” invites listeners to explore the richness of burning narratives that speak to both the individual and collective experience.