New York-based independent label Worry Bead Records recently brought artists like Remember Sports, Squirrel Flower, 2nd Grade, and Pink Navel together for True Names, a benefit compilation to raise funds for the Trans Youth Emergency Project. Matt O’Connor of Worry Bead Records explains that the compilation represents a big team effort: The songs—all unreleased b-sides, demos, and live cuts—were collected from music communities in Boston, New York, Philly and beyond. With this compilation, the artists hope to do their part in supporting Trans Youth Emergency Project’s important work.

What is the Trans Youth Emergency Project? 

TYEP is a project run by the Southern Campaign for Equality. They help trans youth in states with anti-trans laws access healthcare, travel to appointments, pay for medication, and more. 

What got you interested in trans rights? 

I’m a non-binary trans person, so my interest is pretty personal 🙂 

Why is it important to support trans youth — and trans rights in general?

The US government is trying to erase trans people. On a federal level, they’re denying our humanity and scrubbing us from the public record. And on a state level, they’re stripping protections and refusing access to healthcare, especially for kids. Things are getting scary out there. We need to act now to protect our most vulnerable. 

How did the True Names benefit compilation come about?

This is Worry Bead Record’s first proper release (or second, if you count the Tuxis Giant record from 2023). Jenny (my partner and label co-owner) and I wanted to do something community-oriented to kick things off for real. Since the threat to trans youth is so immediate, it felt important to help how we can. 

Can you talk a little bit about the title of the compilation? Why True Names?

I’m a huge Ursula K. Le Guin fan. The title comes from her Earthsea series, which I’ve been pretty obsessed with for the past few years. In the books, your True Name is your most secret and sacred self; the name you only share with a select few. It felt fitting for this project. 

How did you find artists for the compilation?

My band, Tuxis Giant, has been playing in the Northeast DIY scene for 10 years. The artists on this comp are all people I’ve met, played with, and befriended throughout that time. I know some of the world’s most talented people. I’m grateful to have them on board. 

Are all of the artists on the compilation transgender artists? 

I don’t want to speak on behalf of anyone, though I know some folks on the comp identify as trans or queer. Regardless, the DIY music scene has always provided a safe place for everyone to be themselves. For this community, supporting trans rights is a no-brainer. 

I notice that a decent number of the tracks, including Tuxis Giant’s “House by the Sea,” are marked “demo.” Is there a rationale behind including demos rather than polished master recordings?

We wanted the comp to feel unique and original by featuring recordings no one has heard before. Some artists, like 22° Halo and Pink Navel, sent us unreleased b-sides that never found a home on an album. Others dug up demos they had kicking around. Those are some of my favorites: they give you a little window into the creative process, and let you hear a side of the song you hadn’t heard before. 

How would you describe your own music? 

Sometimes quiet, sometimes loud. 

What actions can people take to support trans youth and trans rights? 

Donate what you can, and show up when you can. It’s never been easy for trans people in America, but we’re at an especially existential moment. We need folks to show up for their neighbors.