Meet HARPER BLOOM // A Smirnoff Soda Presented LGBTQIA+ Local Artist Feature
THIS PAGE IS FOR THOSE 18+ ONLY – GET THE FACTS AT DRINKWISE.ORG.AU
Presented by OG vodka baddies themselves, Smirnoff are this month featuring the Naarm-based powerhouse that is, Harper Bloom, as our LGBTQIA+ identifying, culture creating, emerging artist of the month!
Yep, the famed vodka favourite, and subsequent masterminds behind the fan-favourite ‘Smirnoff Soda’ range (that’s available in three fruity flavours, made with real fruit juice!), and ‘Smirnoff Hard Soda’ (these ones are low in sugar, lower in calories, 6% ABV and packed full on flavour) have decided to use this ad space to instead promote an emerging LGBTQIA+ local musician.
It’s a big vodka soda slay, celebrating those LGBTQIA+ icons who desire to create the backing track to your most iconic memories.
So next time you’re en route to a big gay gig, having the gals and the gays round for a drink, or meeting a ferociously fabulous someoneat the bar, feel free to grab yourself an equally fabulous Smirnoff Soda.
MEET HARPER BLOOM
Prepare yourself for the rise of Harper Bloom (she/her), the queer indie-pop sensation set to capture hearts across Australia and beyond. A fusion of synthy electro and indie vibes, Harper isn’t just making music; she’s crafting anthems that inspire confidence and true self-empowerment.
Harper’s journey from Perth to the bustling streets of New York was a transformative one. It was there, at open mic nights, that she first realised her potential as a musician.
“I was just 24 and performing in New York – it made me think, ‘Could I actually do this as a career?!’”
The energy of the city pushed her to explore her sound, eventually leading her to Melbourne, where she collaborated with producers like Ben McCarthy, and began to make a real name for themselves.
In recent years, Harper has embraced a more eccentric and bold approach to her music.
“There have been life shifts, and now I want to be more outrageous in our live shows and my music.”
This evolution reflects her personal journey of empowerment, particularly through the support of a special person in her life – Liz, a 60-year-old woman with early-onset Alzheimer’s whom Harper cares for full-time.
Before her diagnosis, Liz was not only a classical pianist but also an inspiring activist. Despite the challenges she faces, Liz remains a source of strength and creativity for Harper.
“To summarize a very long story short, Liz is an incredible person and pianist who is undergoing the most horrific suffering imaginable – yet helps me every day to feel confident in my skin as a queer person and become a more skilled musician,” Harper shares.
Liz even co-wrote the title track of Harper’s EP, Flutterby, contributing the poignant lyric ‘Flutterby.’
“So this song means a lot to me,” Harper adds, reflecting on the profound impact Liz has had on her music and personal growth over the past two years.
Harper’s music is deeply personal, touching on themes of identity and self-acceptance. As a queer artist, she acknowledges the challenges of balancing vulnerability with privacy, especially when those closest to her are curious about the stories behind her lyrics. But Harper is determined to use her platform to empower others.
“I want to give people as much confidence as possible to pursue what they want to do, and not feel nervous or scared by their sexuality.”
As Harper continues to evolve, she draws inspiration from artists like Troye Sivan and Chappell Roan, whose confidence and extroverted performances push her to new heights.
Now, as she steps into her role as a voice for younger LGBTQIA+ listeners, Harper is committed to creating inclusive spaces through her music and live shows. “We’re trying to get all queer lineups to support local artists and empower our community as much as possible.”
With the release of her latest EP, Flutterby, and an upcoming tour, Harper Bloom is ready to take the world by storm. The tour will be a celebration of music and community, with a portion of the profits going towards the Alzheimer’s Association – a cause close to Harper’s heart.
In summary, Harper Bloom is as authentic as they come, and an artist I hope to see go far. Follow them on insta @harperbloommusic, stream her tracks and buy tickets to her upcoming tour – you won’t regret!
