Stephen Binko (Photo by Linnea Koenigs)
Dallas-based recording artist Steven Binko debuts catchy gay anthem
STEVEN LINDSEY | Contributing writer
StevenCraigLindsey@gmail.com
Write what you know. That simple mandate not only works well for authors, it’s also the secret behind many hit songs over the years.
Can you imagine how boring “Coal Miner’s Daughter” would be if Loretta Lynn’s dad had been an accountant? An introverted Ricky Martin singing a quiet ballad about “Livin’ La Vida Ordinario?” And just imagine what we’d be missing if Dolly Parton’s momma had sewn together single-colored outerwear.
Dallas-based recording artist Steven Binko may not be a household name yet, but his eventful life informs the lyrics of many of his songs.
During our interview, I asked him if he considers himself a singer/songwriter or how he preferred to classify his musical role. He responded with a single word: Warrior.
Not coincidentally, that’s the title of his latest single, released on August 16.
“This song is particularly important to me because it’s an anthem about finding strength in yourself,” Binko said. “The last few years have been really challenging for me. I’ve experienced everything from being on life support after a suicide attempt to the end of my marriage, being assaulted earlier this year and even having my car stolen just last month.
“While I don’t expect everyone to relate to my specific experiences, I believe the message of resilience and inner strength in the song is something universal that can resonate with many people.”
I’ve listened to the track several times, and its infectious hook has been an earworm since I got the assignment to write this story. I told Binko the first time I listened to it I immediately felt like it could be a political battle cry to get the LGBTQ community out to vote in a crucial presidential election that could affect every right we’ve fought so hard to achieve.
“That’s the beauty of music. Everyone connects with it in their own way. I’m thrilled you felt that connection because it means the song provoked something deeper within you,” he said. “For one person, it could be about digging deep to overcome hardship, while someone else might correlate it to being a warrior for other people’s rights as you mentioned.
Just knowing one person, you, found a way to connect with this track, my work here is done!”
One particular line in “Warrior” could be a mantra for many people: “Even if I fall, I’m a warrior, gonna stand up tall.”
“I’ve been through some pretty dark times that pushed me past my limits,” Binko explained. “I’ve made mistakes and had moments I’m not proud of. But this lyric is a reminder to myself and others that we can’t let those moments define us.
“Even when we fall short, we have to stand tall, own our story and be proud of who we are. It’s about acknowledging our survival and knowing we’re more than our worst moments.”
Binko’s musical career has evolved, and his willingness to expose his soul and lay bare his vulnerabilities only makes it easier to root for his success in the industry.
“Honestly, I’m a bit embarrassed by my older work,” he admitted. “While there are tracks out there, I’m hoping people will discover me through what’s coming soon. I recently counted nearly 100 unpublished songs, so instead of waiting to release an album, I’m focusing on dropping tracks one by one. You’ll be able to find them on Spotify, iTunes, Amazon, (pretty much any streaming service) and social media. Just don’t judge me too harshly on the old stuff. We all have to start somewhere!”
He said he still finds it funny when people refer to him as a singer. “I know my musical aspirations surpass my vocal abilities,” he said. “For me, it’s all about the creative process and performance. My sound is constantly evolving because my music reflects where I am at the moment.”
Upcoming singles include a Christian ballad called “I Need You Now.” On the other end of the spectrum, listeners can look forward to a track called “Homewrecker” that details sleeping with someone’s dad. So you never know what you might get with a Steven Binko tune.
Releasing and promoting “Warrior” has understandably occupied much of his recent time, but he has an exciting new project on the horizon that aims to inspire other artists.
“You’re getting the scoop first! I just established a new LLC in Dallas called YouStar Entertainment Company. We’re focused on helping new or undiscovered artists break into the industry by hosting large-scale productions that give everyone a chance to shine,” Binko said. “I’ve been through the struggle of trying to get noticed, and this company is all about building others up and giving them the opportunity to showcase their talents.”
For now, however, it’s Binko’s moment in the spotlight.
Binko’s “Warrior” can be heard on his YouTube channel (@StevenBinko), on Spotify and every major streaming platform. Learn more about the singer at StevenBinko.com.