When Isaac Dunbar asked “who here is gay?” the enthusiastic response made it clear that Dunbar, a Massachusetts-based musician and Wellesley’s 2024 Fall Concert artist, had found his target audience. 

On Oct. 19, fall foliage illuminated the stage where Dunbar and opener Christian Inman performed for Wellesley’s student body. Even though I was unfamiliar with his music, by the end of the afternoon, Isaac Dunbar had become my new favorite artist. Many of his songs resonated with Wellesley students, especially tracks which dealt with themes of queer joy and illusory love like “makeup drawer,” and “Fool’s Paradise.”

Throughout the night, Dunbar repeatedly asked Wellesley students to “shake ass” before performing upbeat disco pop songs. His strong stage presence and confidence created an energetic crowd –– it’s clear that he was born to be a performer. 

Although most of his songs were upbeat dance songs like “I Love To Dance,” his set list also featured more intimate, acoustic-driven songs like “diamonds are a girl’s best friend” and an 80s inspired Queen-esque ballad “American High.” Dunbar’s songs embody the strong sense of self every queer person should aspire to have, and they capture the relatable and playful wittiness of our generation. 

Dunbar already has four albums to his name at just 21 years old. His music has been described as a blend of alternative, indie and dance-pop, with a strong disco influence. Dunbar’s songs have infectious hooks, melodies and production –– with a beautiful, smooth voice to match. 

Dunbar’s rise to indie-prominence has been spectacular to watch, and I can’t wait to see where his music career goes next. Thanks to Dunbar, Wellesley got a much needed reprieve from midterm anxieties.

Contact the editors responsible for this story: Norah Catlin, Anabelle Meyers