Stewart Taylor Celebrates Queer Love and Latin Pop Passion with “Emilio”

Singer-songwriter Stewart Taylor is kicking off a thrilling new era of pop with the release of “Emilio,” a bilingual anthem bursting with Latin heat, ‘80s shimmer, and unapologetic queer energy. Out now on Sapphire Records, “Emilio” marks the first single from Taylor’s much-anticipated debut album, due out in 2026, and it’s already setting the tone for what promises to be one of next year’s most exciting pop releases.

A song that perfectly balances vulnerability with dance floor-ready confidence, “Emilio” draws listeners into a story as relatable as it is irresistible. Inspired by a real-life connection that was as magnetic as it was off-limits, the track captures the bittersweet tension of a love that couldn’t quite begin. “Emilio is very much a real person,” Taylor admits. “We were working together at the time and there was definite chemistry between us. I’ve always had a soft spot for Latin men and Emilio was no exception. But because of stupid business politics, we couldn’t date. That didn’t stop us from flirting all the time though!”

That flirtation ultimately evolved into “Emilio,” which Taylor describes as “soulful white boy goes eighties pop with a bilingual twist.” The track radiates nostalgia while feeling fresh and forward-thinking: a lush fusion of Latin pop influences à la Selena and the heartfelt storytelling of modern queer icons like Chappell Roan. Taylor’s signature blend of emotional honesty and irresistible rhythm gives the song universal appeal. “I’m a very emotional person who writes from the heart, and I also really love to dance,” he says. “That fusion of energy mixed with years of singing in Spanish turned into an upbeat multicultural pop song.”

Produced by Stephen Beerkens of the Australian rock band The Faim, “Emilio” went through months of creative experimentation before arriving at its final, glossy perfection. “My producer and I made so many different versions before we really got it right,” Taylor recalls. “I love eighties music, Latin music, U2, and Lady Gaga. Eventually, all of those influences found their way into the song.” The result is a track that feels like a love letter to classic pop while celebrating the global sounds that continue to shape Taylor’s artistry.

The accompanying music video - which also marks Taylor’s directorial debut - transforms that passion into vivid visual storytelling. Filmed inside the legendary Jewel’s Catch One, one of Los Angeles’ most storied queer nightclubs, the video pulses with neon color, magnetic choreography, and the kind of cinematic intensity that lingers long after the final shot. For Taylor, the location carried special meaning. “The queer history that’s lived between those walls since the 1970s felt so inspiring to me,” he says. “Making it the backdrop to tell my story and direct my first music video seemed kismet.”

Playing the title role of Emilio is Armando Eleazar, an accomplished dancer who recently performed on Saturday Night Live with Bad Bunny and shares the stage with Jennifer Lopez in Kiss of the Spider Woman. The connection felt serendipitous to Taylor. “It’s crazy to think that my song was influenced by Selena and the J.Lo biopic and that my leading man is working with the queen herself!” he exclaims.

More than just a pop song, “Emilio” is a statement of queer empowerment and emotional truth. Taylor has long championed authenticity and representation in his music, and this new single continues that mission with pride and purpose. “‘Emilio’ is another unapologetic love song that happens to be about queer people,” he says. “Queer love is a major part of life, whether people want to accept it or not. Our voices need to be heard now more than ever.”

He points to artists like Chappell Roan as proof that queer stories can connect with mainstream audiences without losing their soul. “Watching queer artists finally break through to the masses proves that there’s still a place for our community in pop music,” Taylor adds.

Ultimately, Taylor hopes “Emilio” resonates as both a danceable anthem and an emotional reminder of the courage it takes to love openly. “Even if you don’t end up with the person you’ve fallen for, hopefully this song will remind you that everyone goes through these highs and lows on the path to finding love,” he says.

“Emilio” is out now on Sapphire Records. Follow Stewart Taylor on Instagram @imstewarttaylor and visit stewarttaylorofficial.com