Singer-songwriter Corook is set to make a powerful musical statement with their vibrant new single, “They!,” a track that serves as both a personal anthem and a rebuke to President Donald Trump’s efforts to roll back LGBTQ+ rights. As a queer and nonbinary artist, Corook has always used their music as a platform for self-expression and advocacy. Their latest release is no exception. The song, accompanied by a lyric video, captures the emotional journey of embracing one’s identity and the vulnerability of sharing it with the world. In “They!,” Corook sings, “It’s no big deal, I’m more me now. I understand if you make mistakes,” offering a message of acceptance and resilience that resonates deeply with the LGBTQ+ community.
The inspiration behind “They!” is deeply personal for Corook. The song reflects their own journey of self-discovery and the exhilaration of living authentically. Corook describes the track as encapsulating the mix of nerves and joy that comes with sharing new pronouns, a moment they hope listeners can relate to on a personal level. This emotional authenticity is what makes “They!” such a compelling listen. By blending catchy melodies with heartfelt lyrics, Corook creates a queer anthem that feels both triumphant and vulnerable, celebrating the courage it takes to be oneself in a world that often seeks to marginalize LGBTQ+ individuals.
Corook’s timing couldn’t be more poignant. Since taking office last month, Trump has signed a series of executive orders that directly target the rights of transgender, nonbinary, and intersex individuals, as well as the broader LGBTQ+ community. While these orders were not yet in place when Corook recorded “They!,” the song takes on an even greater sense of urgency in this context. “In a time when our identities are under constant attack, especially with figures like Trump attempting to legislate us out of existence, this song feels more vital than ever,” Corook said. For many in the LGBTQ+ community, “They!” becomes a beacon of hope and defiance, a reminder that their identities cannot be erased.
The buzz around “They!” has been building for weeks, thanks in part to Corook’s savvy use of social media. The singer-songwriter has been teasing snippets of the track on platforms like TikTok, where short clips of the song caught the attention of pop stars like Justin Bieber and Meghan Trainor. Last week, Troye Sivan even shared a TikTok video of himself lip-syncing to a recording of Corook declaring “they/them energy!” These moments of support have not only amplified the song’s reach but also highlighted its cultural relevance. “They!” feels less like just a song and more like a movement, particularly as it gains traction among both fans and high-profile artists alike.
This momentum is a testament to Corook’s growing influence in the music industry. A Pennsylvania native, Corook has been active in music for some time, with viral hits like “It’s OK!” and “If I Were a Fish” making waves on TikTok. Their breakout success has laid the groundwork for their highly anticipated debut album, “Committed to a Bit,” set to release on February 28 via Atlantic Records. The album is a deeply personal project, offering listeners a glimpse into Corook’s multifaceted identity. “This record is a collection of songs that offers a glimpse behind the curtain of my experience—being both Corinne and corook, and the delicate balance of honoring each side of me,” they explained. The title reflects the duality of their life as both an artist and an individual navigating the complexities of identity.
With “They!” leading the charge, “Committed to a Bit” is shaping up to be a defining release for Corook. In addition to the new single, the album currently has three other tracks available for streaming: “Blankets,” “Ballerina,” and “Crumbs.” These songs paint a picture of an artist who is both deeply introspective and unapologetically themselves. For Corook, this album is more than just a musical debut—it’s a celebration of identity, resilience, and the power of music to transcend adversity. As they prepare to share this work with the world, it’s clear that Corook is ready to take their place as a leading voice in the LGBTQ+ music movement, inspiring hope and confidence in listeners everywhere.