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LA singer/songwriter headlines entertainment at Project Pride SRQ's Gulfcoast Pride Festival

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Monday, October 13th 2025 at 17:05 GMT by Sarasota Herald-Tribune
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LA Singer Headlines Entertainment at Gulf Coast Pride Festival

The Gulf Coast Pride Festival, set to take place this weekend in the vibrant downtown area, has announced a high‑profile headline act that is sure to draw music lovers and community supporters alike. Los Angeles‑based vocalist and songwriter Layla Monroe will bring her signature blend of pop‑rock and soulful R&B to the festival’s main stage, a move that has generated excitement across the region.

Monroe, who first burst onto the music scene with her 2019 single “Midnight Echo,” has become a staple in the LGBTQ+ music circuit thanks to her uplifting lyrics and inclusive performances. The announcement came after a flurry of social media buzz, and the local press quickly picked up the story, noting how her presence will elevate the festival’s profile and attract a larger, more diverse audience. “It’s an honor to welcome Layla to our festival,” said festival director Maria Torres. “Her music embodies the spirit of celebration, resilience, and love that defines our community.”

Festival Overview

The Gulf Coast Pride Festival is an annual event that celebrates the LGBTQ+ community through a mix of music, art, and cultural activities. This year’s lineup, announced on Friday, includes a variety of performers ranging from local bands to nationally recognized artists. In addition to Monroe’s headline performance, the festival will feature a spoken‑word showcase, a drag performance competition, a pop‑up art gallery, and a special tribute to the 2024 “Pride in the Parks” initiative, which encourages outdoor recreation and community gathering.

According to the festival’s official website (http://www.gulfcoastpride.org), the event will run from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., with a free open‑air stage, a dedicated kids’ zone, and a “Safe Space” corner for visitors who need support or counseling. The website also highlights partnerships with local businesses, which are offering special discounts and promotions throughout the festival grounds.

Layla Monroe’s Journey

Monroe’s musical journey has been a story of persistence and passion. Born in Los Angeles, she grew up in a multicultural household that exposed her to a wide range of musical genres. She began writing songs in her teens, and her first EP, “Dreamscapes,” garnered critical acclaim for its lyrical depth and melodic hooks. Her debut album, “Beyond Borders,” topped several indie charts in 2020 and solidified her reputation as an emerging LGBTQ+ icon.

In addition to her music, Monroe is an outspoken advocate for mental health awareness within the LGBTQ+ community. She frequently speaks at schools and community centers, encouraging young people to pursue their creative dreams while staying grounded in self‑care. Her partnership with the nonprofit organization Open Horizons (https://openhorizons.org) aims to provide free counseling and mentorship programs for LGBTQ+ youth across the country.

Local Community Impact

The festival’s organizers have noted that Monroe’s appearance will boost local engagement and bring economic benefits to the area. A spokesperson from the Gulfport Tourism Board (https://www.gulfport.com/visitors) highlighted that the event attracts an estimated 15,000 visitors each year, and the addition of a high‑profile act is expected to increase that number. “Layla’s fanbase is national, and their enthusiasm for Pride events is well documented,” the spokesperson said. “This will likely translate into increased patronage for our hotels, restaurants, and retailers.”

Monroe has also pledged to collaborate with local businesses during her visit. She plans to host a meet‑and‑greet session at the Gulfport Convention Center, where she will sign copies of her latest single, “Echoes of Love.” This initiative will provide an opportunity for fans to connect with her personally while supporting the local economy.

A Broader Message of Inclusion

Beyond the music, the festival’s theme this year, “United in Pride,” underscores a commitment to inclusivity. The theme has been woven into the festival’s programming, featuring workshops on intersectionality, panels on transgender rights, and a “Pride in the Workplace” career fair aimed at connecting LGBTQ+ professionals with employers who value diversity. Monroe’s own statements echo this sentiment: “Music has the power to unite people from all walks of life, and I’m thrilled to celebrate that unity with the Gulf Coast community.”

Conclusion

Layla Monroe’s headline performance at the Gulf Coast Pride Festival marks a significant moment for the event and the community it serves. Her blend of heartfelt songwriting, social advocacy, and electrifying stage presence promises to elevate the festival’s reputation as a premier celebration of LGBTQ+ culture and creativity. As the festival draws near, anticipation is building not only among music fans but also among local businesses and community leaders who recognize the broader impact of such a gathering on social cohesion, economic vitality, and cultural enrichment. With Monroe’s soaring vocals set to fill the festival grounds, this year’s Gulf Coast Pride promises an unforgettable experience that celebrates love, resilience, and the unifying power of music.