Category Archives: Dazzler of the Day

Dazzler of the Day: Ali Franco

His intro page says it all: “It’s not about my sex, it’s about my nature.”

It’s the artistic nature of Ali Franco that has propelled his work into one of my favorite things on the internet right now. Decadent, slightly devilish, and always gorgeously-rendered, his pieces are the stuff of ribald erotica, embodying elegance with a gleeful edge.

Think of Madonna’s epic 1990 ‘Vogue’ performance in which she enchantingly recreated a very cheeky court of Versailles, only imagine it with an even more potent sexuality. The coquettish cock, if you will. The derriere-baring debutante. Artist and provocateur Ali Franco offers all that and more, and he is our Dazzler of the Day. Check out Ali’s website here. 

 

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Dazzler of the Day: Patti Murin

“I excel at buying journals and not writing in them.” ~ Patti Murin

Anyone who so boldly goes there without a dash of shame is a Dazzler of the Day in my book. And so it is that Patti Murin gets her first Dazzler crowning, but that’s not the only reason. Murin originated the role of Princess Anna in the Broadway production of ‘Frozen’ and was a favorite on ‘Chicago Med’. My friend Elizabeth brought her to my attention for this post (shout out for that!) Bonus points: she’s a Taylor Swift fan too

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Dazzler of the Day: Noam Ash

A belated birthday gift of sorts, this Dazzler of the Day goes out to Noam Ash, who recently celebrated his anniversary on earth. A graduate of Tufts University, Ash has been an actor, writer, producer, creator and storyteller, channeling a charming and often-comedic take on the world into work that is both funny and occasionally provocative, as witnessed by the glory that is ‘My Gay Roommate’. 

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Dazzler of the Day: Bruce Springsteen

True legends are exquisitely rare, and only exist after decades of proving themselves durable and relevant through the changing times. Bruce Springsteen is easily one of those legends, having executed success and artistic growth in a career spanning five decades and counting. For some of us of a certain age, Bruce will always be the New Jersey hometown American hero,  a fellow every-man who was ‘Born in the ‘U.S.A’ but also realizes all the baggage that comes from it. That he’s taken his immense platform to boldly and brazenly stand on the right side of history is testament to where his heart has always been. A champion for all people, Springsteen has made his art into a rich commentary on humanity, and for that he earns this Dazzler of the Day. Check out his current tour dates at his website here

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Dazzler of the Day: Miley Cyrus

Anyone who survived child-stardom and a Disney series while forging a career as an adult in the entertainment industry deserves praise and honor simply for making it through that wilderness. Show business may run in the blood of Miley Cyrus, but her climb to the realm of pop culture royalty was accomplished with a hefty amount of grit, determination, and raw talent. She’s a modern-day Madonna thanks to her knack for courting controversy at just the right moments, and seeing it through to the next phase of her career. Seeing her embrace sobriety is a boon to celebration her music, including the recent super-smash ‘Flowers‘ from her latest album ‘Endless Summer Vacation’ which sounds like the perfect soundtrack to the sunny season. This marks her first Dazzler of the Day crowning.

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Dazzler of the Day: Tyler Oakley

With an upbeat Twitter timeline (a rarity these days as that platform nosedives further into obscurity) and an equally-if-not-more-compelling YouTube feed, which put him on the map years ago, Tyler Oakley earns the Dazzler of the Day crown. Currently he’s moved on to podcasts, with the brilliance that is PsychoBabble. Seeing anyone rise to fame and renown from their positive energy in a world of increasingly sour and dour internet options is a welcome and refreshing change of pace. In the age of the Kardashians, be an Oakley. (For a more comprehensive background, check out his Linktree here.)

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Dazzler of the Day: Adam Lambert

Covering the songs of other artists with his new album ‘High Drama’, Adam Lambert showcases his vocal prowess while expanding familiar territory into moodier and more dramatic landscapes. As his fans fondly recall, Lambert began his remarkable ascent singing the songs of others on ‘American Idol’ before taking things into his own more-than-capable hands. This album is a return to those early days, highlighting his talents for reinventing what we thought we already knew. He earns the Dazzler of the Day because no one dazzles quite like Adam. Check out his website here for everything he’s got planned.

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Dazzler of the Day: Hayden Joseph

Barrier-breaking gay country singer Hayden Joseph is a bit of an anomaly in a genre of music stereotypically not exactly welcoming or open to LGBTQ+ participants, but he hopes that is changing (and here’s an example of how it may be). Being brave is sometimes just the result of being yourself, and Joseph earns this Dazzler of the Day for being living proof of that. Check out his website here for more:

A South Carolina native, Hayden Joseph is no stranger to the Country Music scene. His love for the genre started as soon as he could talk and has continued to blossom throughout his adult life. Hayden blends the sounds of Modern Country and Mainstream Pop music, drawing inspiration from the genre-bending melodies of Taylor Swift, Garth Brooks, and Shania Twain. His unique sound, heartfelt lyrics, and Southern Charm have captivated audiences across the country.

Hayden prides himself in the inclusive nature of his lyrics, as an openly gay male pursuing a country music career. “The songs I write are rooted in personal experiences, but I challenge myself to write lyrics that are applicable to many walks of life.” He hopes to continue breaking barriers and being a driving force in the changing country music tide.

His debut album, “Different” was released in Spring of 2021, logging more than 500k streams to date. Its follow-up singles this summer have seen even more rapid trajectories, while Hayden’s message of expanding country music’s perspectives has garnered him nearly 200K TikTok followers, led to features in “People” magazine, and landed notable Spotify editorial placements.

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Dazzler of the Day: Brandon Kyle Goodman

Actor, activist, and writer Brandon Kyle Goodman earns their first Dazzler of the Day thanks to the impressive list of credits and artistic accomplishments so painstakingly delineated on their website here, and as follows:

From bringing diverse, powerful characters to life both on screen and stage, to writing scripts and starring in some of today’s most successful television projects for Netflix, actor, writer, and social justice advocate Brandon Kyle Goodman (they/he) has emerged in the entertainment industry as a powerful multi-hyphenate force with a voice to be reckoned with.

Goodman is perhaps most recognized for their work as both a writer and voice actor for Netflix’s smash-hit, animated comedy series “Big Mouth.”  For those who have not seen the show, “Big Mouth” is an edgy, groundbreaking coming-of-age television series that follows a group of young teenagers who must learn to navigate the wonders and horrors of puberty with the sometimes helpful, sometimes confusing advice of their own “Hormone Monsters.”  Goodman has written for seasons four, five, six, and the upcoming seventh season of the series, and debuted their voiceover work as Walter the Lovebug, in season five (2021).  In the spring of 2022, Goodman reprised their work as the queer character Walter in a leading role in the “Big Mouth” spinoff series, “Human Resources,” for which they also write.  “Human Resources” is described as a first-of-its-kind animated workplace comedy and will pull back the curtain on the creatures of the “Big Mouth” universe, including the Hormone Monsters, Shame Wizards, and more, who act as the sometimes-bothersome shoulder angels for humans journeying through life.  Season two of “Human Resources” is set to debut on Netflix this summer.

Additional credits for Goodman include the critically acclaimed Larry David/HBO series “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” (2021) Netflix’s feature film “Feel the Beat” (2020), as well as Amazon’s successful rom-com anthology series “Modern Love.”  They have also appeared as one of the leads in Fullscreen’s digital series “Alive in Denver,” and can be seen in the independent features “The Blackout,” “The Relationtrip,” Hulu’s “Plus One,” and Blue Fox’s “Papi Chulo,” alongside Matt Bomer and Wendi McLendon-Covey.  

Goodman is proud to be a nonbinary, queer Black leader, and a staunch advocate for Black lives.  Throughout their time working for “Big Mouth”, Goodman has helped to create and launch the show’s mentorship program for aspiring Black writers in animation, known as the Brutus Pink x The Black Folx Initiative.  Goodman’s name was launched into the limelight throughout the summer of 2020 as their vulnerable, informative Instagram videos regarding racism in America went viral, quickly solidifying them as a go-to resource for individuals seeking educational and inspiring content, while detailing a personal look at Goodman’s own personal experiences growing up and living Black and queer in the United Staes.  Today, Goodman’s content has received over millions of views and counting, and their passion and drive to help the community has caught the attention of major Black-owned brands such as CIROC and Alicia Key’s skincare line, Keys Soulcare, both of which they have partnered with as a brand ambassador.  Goodman continues to actively speak out against the injustices that have been plaguing the Black community for decades and encourages their followers to donate to the Innocence Project, The Bail Project, Black Trans Travel Fund, and Black Lives Matter.  

Additional projects for Goodman include partnering with Endeavor Content and Joel Stillerman’s Content Superba to develop “What Am I?”, an original scripted series they’re creating, in which they will also star.  On the non-scripted side, Goodman has joined forces with Netflix’s social team to create a game show based on their viral Instagram Live series, “Messy Mondays,” which aims to hilariously entertain and thoughtfully educate fans and followers about all things sexual health and wellness.  Goodman is also published their first book, “You Gotta Be You,” which was purchased in a competitive bidding by Legacy Lit, a new imprint from Hachette Book Group that focuses on BIPOC writers.  The memoir explores the intersections of Goodman’s race, sexuality, and gender through humorous, honest, and autobiographical storytelling.

Born and raised in Queens, New York, Goodman discovered their love of acting throughout high school, before attending the Tisch School of Arts at New York University (NYU).  Upon their graduation from NYU, it wasn’t long before Goodman packed their bags to move to LA full-time to pursue a career as both an actor and writer in Hollywood.  When not in front of the screen, Goodman loves to seek out great new eats, work out, and binge “The Real Housewives.”  Goodman is currently based in Los Angeles, CA with their husband and their puppy, Korey.

 

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Dazzler of the Day: Carole King

Some dazzlers are so dazzling that the mere naming of them as Dazzler of the Day feels trite and a tad bit silly. (See Beyoncé, Dolly Parton, Madonna, Taylor Swift and Lady Gaga for example.) That points to something in humanity that afflicts the best of the best: whenever someone seemingly has their shit together, we forget to check on them or grant them the honor and adoration due their talent or art or mere existence. Meanwhile, the trouble-makers or perennially problematic people get all the glory and attention and support. Such is the case with artists like Carole King, who have amassed a breathtaking body of work (and if you look into all the songs she wrote for others it truly is epic) while remaining humble and true to their work. When they take on important causes like environmentalism, they dazzle us even more, and want no recognition for being good people. So here’s to those who have dazzled us for decades, asking for nothing yet always giving their everything.

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Dazzler of the Day: Daquetta Jones

First of all, anyone who rocks a ladybug purse is a dazzler in my book. Second, when you add a lifelong career in helping others and giving back to your local community, you more than earn the title of Dazzler of the Day. Daquetta Jones has been doing both, and doing them fabulously, for more years than seems possible. When the stunning style and colorful sophistication of one’s fashion sense is matched by a career of service (Jones has been the Executive director at YWCA of the Greater Capital Region and the Deputy Commissioner for Administration at New York State Department of Civil Service) the result is a dynamic inspiration for all of us looking to dazzle in our own way. 

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Dazzler of the Day: John Robert Bowers

The Lark Street Renaissance continues as John Robert Bowers is crowned Dazzler of the Day, joining the vaunted ranks of Albany denizens such as Lynn Beaumont, Kevin Bruce, Tess Collins, and Elissa Halloran. Founder and lead therapist at Spa Halcyon, Bowers has been creating an oasis of wellness in the midst of Lark Street, providing spa and beauty treatments in an inviting environment. With his welcoming energy and expert techniques, he knows precisely how to help his clients achieve their desired level of relaxation and stress-release, while aiding in a holistic approach to self-care and health. Too many of us forget that self-care is absolutely vital to taking care of others, and in a world that feels increasingly fractured and disparate, Bowers is a friendly reminder that we need to take of ourselves and each other. {Check out Spa Halcyon’s FaceBook page here.}

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Dazzler of the Day: Kelsea Ballerini

Anyone who steps onto a country music stage and defiantly celebrates drag queens at this moment in time is way more than a Dazzler of the Day, but that’s all I have to offer Kelsea Ballerina right now, and she most definitely deserves it. Be sure to visit her website here to see how much she has already accomplished, and find all the signs of all the promise that is yet to come. 

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Dazzler of the Day: Andreas Wijk

Andreas Wijk just released one of the most powerful songs of the past year, thanks to its public delivery to his parents, in which he plays what is basically a coming-out song for them. For that bravery and courage alone (because it’s not always easy to come out, at any point in history) Andreas earns this Dazzler of the Day. Aiding in the dazzlement is his musical talent and body of work, and that song.

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Dazzler of the Day: Alex Testere

Author, illustrator, and multi-talented Renaissance creator Alex Testere wears many hats, and all of them quite well. His illustrated book ‘Please Grow: Lessons on Thriving for Plants (and People)” is a life-guide on growing plants and cultivating the soul, two topics more intertwined and connected than most of us realize. In his spare time he may be found knitting some spectacular garment, such as the gorgeous sweater seen below (I’m still angling to see if he might allow me to commission a knitted health vest for the summer season). When one’s career and lifestyle conspires to create its own work of art, the title of Dazzler of the Day doesn’t fully capture the magic at work, but if it helps share some of the joy, it’s worth it. Unsurprisingly, the ‘About’ bio from his website is as charming and captivating as his written work:

I’m an author and illustrator based in Woodstock, New York.

I lived in Brooklyn for almost a decade before my partner and I relocated upstate. Over the years I’ve worked as a blogger, a social sports organizer, a line cook, a cheesemonger, a magazine editor, and now, I get to spend my time doing my favorite things in the world: telling stories and making art.

In my down time, you’ll find my tending my menagerie of houseplants, knitting an intricate sweater, or sipping wine on a beach (if only in my dreams).

I’m currently about to publish my first book, “Please Grow: Lessons on Thriving For Plants (and People).” It’s an illustrated guide to self-care, creativity, and personal growth, rooted in the life cycle of plants. I hope you’ll check it out! I am also available for hire as an illustrator, writer, and consultant.

{Visit Alex Testere’s website here where you can order ‘Please Grow: Lessons on Thriving For Plants (and People)’ and see all the other fabulous stuff going on in his wonderful world.}

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