Tulara’s “Trailblazers”: A Fierce Queer Anthem Honouring the Stories That Came Before
For so many in our LGBTQI+ community, music isn’t just background noise - it’s survival. It’s the pulse that carries our heartbreak, our resistance, our joy, and the pride we learn to claim. Cairns‑based indie pop‑rock artist Tullara knows this intimately, and her new single “Trailblazers” is a bold, heartfelt tribute to the queer elders and stories that shaped her.
The Power of Seeing Yourself
Representation isn’t a buzzword - it’s oxygen. Tullara’s inspiration for “Trailblazers” grew from immersing herself in queer narratives: the activism and grief of When We Rise, the unapologetic flamboyance of Bohemian Rhapsody, and the joyfully queer universe of Glee.
For her, Glee was more than a TV show. As a teenager coming out, she saw herself in Santana’s storyline - a moment of recognition that so many queer youth cling to. That spark of belonging, even through fiction, is a gift our elders fought tooth and nail to make possible.
“Trailblazers” is her thank‑you letter to them, the ones who marched, resisted, and carved out space so future generations could breathe a little easier.
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Love, Legacy, and Living Openly
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Trailblazing isn’t just about protest; it’s about love. Tullara’s gratitude shines through when she reflects on her own life: “I got married last year to my beautiful wife. You know, that wasn’t possible in Australia not so long ago.”
That simple joy - marrying the person you love without fear - is a reminder of how far we’ve come, and how fiercely our community fought to get here.
An ’80s Rock Pulse with a Queer Heart
The pounding, anthemic ’80s rock sound behind “Trailblazers” isn’t accidental. It’s homage. The raw energy of rock ’n’ roll mirrors the courage and defiance needed to survive as a queer person, especially during the AIDS crisis, a time that reshaped LGBTQI+ activism forever.
“The power and the energy that burst through rock and roll is such a cool thing,” she says. That electricity became the backbone of “Trailblazers,” a sonic salute to the resilience of our community.
What’s Next for Tullara?
“Trailblazers” is only the beginning. Tullara’s debut album arrives in October, packed with heart‑on‑sleeve tracks that explore identity, love, and queer strength. She’s also heading out on tour, performing across New South Wales and Queensland this December and January, before taking her music to Victoria and South Australia in early 2027.
It’s the perfect moment for our community to gather, sing, dance, and celebrate the path carved by those who came before us. Because when we live and love openly, we all become trailblazers.
Turn It Up - The Revolution Is Loud
Check our show notes for tour dates and ways to support Tullara’s music. Turn the volume up. The revolution isn’t just televised - it’s sung, danced, and lived.
Turn It Up - The Revolution Is Loud
Check below for ways to support Tullara’s music. Turn the volume up. The revolution isn’t just televised - it’s sung, danced, and lived.
Tullara Website for upcoming tour dates: https://www.tullara.com/
Listen Up
Prefer audio? Here’s the full conversation with Tullara in podcast format.