Emerging from Charlotte, North Carolina, the goth rock band Secret Idol is starting to build a steady following. The lineup includes Jade (Jaden Vazquez) on lead guitar, Thorn (Landon Benoy) on rhythm guitar, Hex (Colby Scroggins) on bass, Warrior (Gerson Nieto Guerrero) on drums, and Secret (Emory Marr) on vocals. Secret Idol formed a few years ago as part of Emory’s escape from everyday life. When I asked Emory and Jaden why they continued pursuing music despite challenges at home, they expressed a shared belief; life is better when you live it for yourself instead of constantly trying to meet other’s expectations. That mindset is evident in the band’s passion and genuine love for the project.
Despite coming from different backgrounds, cultures, and life experiences, the members of Secret Idol found common ground through music. Emory first met Jaden at the gym, where Jaden was playing air drums mid-workout. Assuming he was a drummer, Emory struck up a conversation, only to discover that Jaden actually played guitar and was just messing around. Landon, Emory’s brother-in-law, was somewhat “recruited” into the band–starting on bass, briefly switching to drums, and eventually returning to guitar, where he now remains until further notice. Colby’s introduction came through an email to Emory, which eventually led to a friendship with Landon, now the two consider each other best friends. Later, during a previous project at the Jambox called Malefical (involving Emory, Colby, Landon, and Carson), the group came across a flyer from Gerson, who was looking for a band. They reached out, connected, and just like that, the full lineup of Secret Idol was complete.
What started as a series of chance encounters turned into a group of individuals united by their shared passion for music and a desire to create on their own terms. I love Secret Idol, and I’m excited to see where they go beyond North Carolina.
To get a fuller sense of who Secret Idol really is, the full interview includes personal stories and reflections from the band, offering a closer look at their creative process, journey, and the passion that continues to drive their music. All photo’s are taken by Margarita Nieto Gurrero and @cltsmallvenues
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