Joe McElderry: Love Me Out Loud, X Factor & Living Authentically

Joe McElderry first captured the hearts of the nation when he won The X Factor in 2009. But behind the headlines, chart success and sold-out tours was a young man still figuring out who he was.In this episode of Queer Talker, Joe joins Ben Cicchetti to reflect on the extraordinary journey from winning one of the UK’s biggest television shows to finding comfort in his own identity and creative voice.Joe opens up about navigating fame at just 18 years old, realising he was gay while living life in the public eye, and the surreal experience of seeing his coming out story splashed across the front page of every national newspaper.We also discuss his incredible career since The X Factor, performing with George Michael, the lessons he’s learned from nearly two decades in the music industry, and why turning 30 changed his perspective on success, authenticity and happiness.Plus, Joe shares the story behind his brilliant new single Love Me Out Loud, a heartbreak disco anthem inspired by artists like Robyn, Jessie Ware and Dua Lipa, and explains why now felt like the right time to return to pop music.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Joe McElderry03:00 The Creative Process Behind New Music06:01 Memorable Moments from X Factor08:57 The Impact of George Michael12:04 Navigating Fame and Personal Identity15:03 Coming Out Journey17:53 Life After Winning X Factor25:14 The Journey of a Music Career26:14 Reflecting on 'Wide Awake' Album29:20 Exploring Musical Versatility31:52 Finding Authenticity in Performance34:53 The Joy of New Music: 'Love Me Out Loud'38:10 The Creative Process Behind 'Love Me Out Loud'40:45 Queer Joy and Community Spirit46:06 The Impact of 'That's Ridiculous' Podcast50:11 Advice to Younger SelfConnect with Ben Cicchetti:Website - https://www.queertalker.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchettiTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti