Canadian pop star on supporting trans youthr
Maggie Szabo is a Canadian singer-songwriter who has been winning over audiences worldwide with her soulful vocals and pop anthems. Hailing from small-town Ontario, Szabo is now an accomplished musician based in Los Angeles and using her music to conquer social injustice. Don’t Give Up, the first single off of Szabo’s upcoming EP, Worthy, is a heartfelt song dedicated to transgender youth around the world. DIVA caught up with Szabo to find out what inspired the music video behind the single.
DIVA: The video for your new song Don't Give Up On Love has created a lot of buzz, what's it about?
Maggie Szabo: The Don’t Give Up video shows the story of a high school student struggling with their gender identity and their super supportive boyfriend who loves them regardless. I wanted the spirit of the video to genuinely portray the story of a teenager struggling with their gender identity and to shed light on transgender issues, particularly trans kids at a time when so many are being discarded by their families and are forced to live on the streets.
Where did the idea for the video come from?
I was inspired by the lyrics “don’t give up on love”, which is where the song started. It’s a feeling we’ve all felt before and the lyrics and melody came very naturally. I wanted the lyrics to be really honest.
Why did you decide to make the song about trans youth?
I decided to make a video, as an ally, to support trans youth because I feel as though it’s a community that needs more love right now. I think we should all have the freedom to be who we want to be, love who we want to love, and I don’t think anyone should ever feel judged for that. For kids that are struggling with their gender identity, I want them to know they aren’t alone.
What kinds of responses have you had since releasing the video?
I am so thrilled at the reaction I am getting from people. The amount of love and support I have received for the video has been so uplifting, and I am thankful that I’m able to show my support to the LGBTQ community through my music.
Why do you feel it's important to share stories like this?
I think it’s very important to continue to create awareness about trans issues so more people can be educated on the types of struggles people face on a daily basis. If just one person can relate to this video, then it’s done its job.
And what are your plans for the future?
I have lots more music I want to release to the world, the most recent of which you can find on my upcoming EP, Worthy!
For more on Maggie Szabo, click here.
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