Russian Roulette, LGBT Charity Single

‘Russian Roulette’ is Marcus Reeves’ response to how the Russian gag law on “promoting homosexuality” affects real people and real lives.

February 2014 saw all eyes turned on Russia and the Winter Olympics in Sochi. Vladimir Putin drew scorn from many sides for his endorsement of laws that outlaw “the promotion of homosexuality”. In spite of international disdain, Putin stands firm.

The Winter Olympics officially closed on Monday 24 February, but for the millions of LGBT people in Russia and across the globe in countries where they face intolerance, violence and abuse, their lives will continue to be overshadowed by homophobia, hatred and misunderstanding. It can only be hoped that Sochi is a starting pistol for further awareness and tolerance – and not just a smoking gun.

Written on Valentine’s Day, then recorded and released within ten days, ‘Russian Roulette’ is Marcus Reeves’ reaction to events in Russia, Ireland and further afield. Inspired by Sochi, and the ‘Noble Call’ speech by Irish drag queen Panti Bliss as well as storylines from ABC’s top hit TV show ‘Nashville’, the song gives voice to the thoughts that often trouble LGBT people trying to find tenderness in an uncaring world. Marcus says:

I watched the Panti Bliss ‘Noble Call’ video and was moved, angered and inspired. After taking part in a peaceful protest which was televised on Channel Four News a week earlier, I felt that I wanted to help speak out for other people and their struggles – people who may not have a voice or be allowed to make it heard. Despite still often facing discrimination here in the UK, we are generally free to do as we wish – and that’s simply not the case elsewhere. Whether there are ten people, ten thousand, or ten million people facing homophobia, it’s always too many.

The accompanying no-budget video for the single features over thirty LGBT people, their friends and families alongside their own thoughts on love, life and LGBT experiences. Filmed on an iPhone and organised via Facebook, as well as being powerful, poignant and funny, it is also a testament to what can be achieved with modern technology and social media when we put our minds to it – a powerful alternative to photos of our cats and dinners.

Proceeds from sales of the single will be donated to Stonewall, BeLongTo and IGLYO, international charities that help young LGBT people.