PRIDE 2025 - Stop, Look, and Listen: Blue J and the Pigeons

In a music scene saturated with sameness, Blue J and The Pigeons strut proudly to the beat of their kazoo. Based in New Mexico, this nine-piece queer collective is rewriting what it means to be a genre-bending band—delivering a riotous fusion of 1960s doo-wop style and 1980s punk spirit. If you’ve ever wanted drag, burlesque, punk rock, glittery tuxedos, and a kazoo solo all in one performance, this is your moment.

Founded by longtime collaborators and real-life brothers Jeff Bailey Cannon and Chris Cannon, Blue J and The Pigeons emerged from the ashes of various past projects, coalescing into a glorious musical phoenix in late 2019. “Chris and I have been in bands together since we were kids,” Jeff says. “If I start any project, he’s going to be in it.” The idea had been brewing in Jeff’s mind for years, but it wasn’t until several bandmates found themselves without projects at the same time that the group officially took flight.

What started with three members quickly blossomed into something far bigger—and more fabulous. “I saw Lillith perform at a variety burlesque show and asked her to join the band between acts,” Jeff recalls. From there, the band grew organically: Raven was brought on next, and then Wombat and Mr. Bob-omb joined mid-performance at a local “shop and stroll.” With bassist Teddy and drummer Wes rounding out the rhythm section, the band’s sound—and stage presence—became something truly unique.

Jeff, who serves as the band’s music director, describes their approach as “a small theater troupe as much as a band.” Every member wears multiple hats: Lilith is the producer, Raven is the costume designer, K.J. handles graphic design, and Chris is the booking agent. “Everyone has roles to go along with the music,” says Jeff, “so no one is left out or overwhelmed.” The collaborative energy fuels their cohesive yet eccentric vibe, both sonically and visually.

Musically, Blue J and The Pigeons are a retro revival with punk punch. Their influences range from Frankie Lymon and the Teenagers to metal, jazz, and DIY punk. “I love dressing up in a flashy tuxedo, but I wanted to do a mostly punk band,” says Jeff. “It felt funny to call it something like Flashy and the Trashy—which is still a great name someone should take! But we landed on Blue J and The Pigeons, and even funnier—everyone ended up loving dressing up anyway.” Chris adds, “We all listen to different things—punk, jazz, metal—but we’re aligned on the vibe we want for this band.”
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Despite having nine members, the group runs surprisingly smoothly when it comes to songwriting and sound development. “We have main writers who present songs,” Chris explains. “One or two people may add their own ingredient, but overall, everyone’s on the same page.” Jeff echoes that sentiment, adding that his role involves arranging songs and ensuring a cohesive style, even when different members contribute ideas.

Their upcoming debut album, recorded at Wall of Sound with engineer John Wall, is expected to drop soon and promises to be a sonic feast. “It’s an eight-song record with mostly originals,” says Jeff. “We’ve got love songs, punk guitars, metal solos, harmonic vocals—and even a Christmas song,” Chris adds that the experience has sharpened everyone’s musical skills. “John brought out the best in our musicianship.”

Beyond the music, Blue J and The Pigeons are all about building community. Whether performing at fundraisers, supporting LGBTQ+ spaces, or planning future weddings and casino gigs, they believe in using their platform to spread joy and inclusion. Their mission? “To have fun, make people dance, and always be learning,” says Jeff.

Education plays a significant role in that ethos. Jeff is currently studying music at UNM, and Chris continues to take advanced guitar lessons despite three decades of experience. “We’re committed to growing, both individually and as a group,” Jeff says. “The more we learn, the better we play—and the better time we can give our audience.”

Their shows are pure spectacle: punky, playful, and packed with glitter. The burlesque influence shines in the costuming; the drag culture pulses through their theatrical flair. And yes—there’s kazoo. It’s camp, it’s chaos, it’s cohesive. In short, it’s Blue J and The Pigeons.

So, where can you find them? Right now, the band is most active on Facebook and Instagram. But with their debut album on the way, they plan to expand their presence across YouTube, Spotify, and more. “Once the record drops, we’ll have a lot more out there,” says Chris.

In a world that often asks artists to pick a lane, Blue J and The Pigeons proudly take the scenic route—bedazzled, brilliant, and beating their own beautifully queer drum.

If you’re looking for a band that makes you laugh, dance, and feel seen, this flock is for you. Just follow the kazoo. P&E - Teresa Robinson