‘Y’all Means All’ Member Spotlight: Joe Marrocco
For Joe Marrocco, Y’all Means All is more than just a concert title—it’s a message of inclusion and unity.
“Things that divide us are distractions from who we truly are internally,” Joe explains. “The ways we categorize and then marginalize one another is destructive. I believe our differences, like being trans, gay, BIPOC, or differently-abled, are profound identifiers worth celebrating and upholding. They are not what define our worth and value as fellow humans and so any subjugation because of them should be shattered.”
As a straight ally singing with Heartland Men’s Chorus, Joe sees firsthand how music brings people together. “Tenor ones sing much higher than I can. I sing much lower than they can. This doesn’t mean we should divide and have our own choir. How boring would that be? When we come together and work with each other to strengthen one another in the ways we are different, gorgeous harmony is found. We flourish. What makes them different doesn’t harm me—it heals me.”
A Journey of Emotion and Activism
More than just a night of great music, Joe looks forward to the emotional journey of the concert—both for the performers and the audience.
“I am looking forward to the waves of feelings, new ideas, and emotional connections we will ride with our audience members,” he says. “I’m looking forward to our choir propelling the audience into their next phase of activism—whether that is through tiny acts of kindness or big movements toward justice.”
Why You Can’t Miss This Show
Joe believes Y’all Means All is the perfect mix of fun, hope, and musical excellence.
“People need to come out to the show because it is a blast—but it is also plugging into hope and the future,” he explains. “Fun, levity, joy, and light are found woven into expressions of how our choir members feel existing in this time and place, and what is motivating them to continue moving forward. Along with this, our musicality has never been better. We are working hard to bring down the house.”
What to Expect at an HMCKC Concert
“If you’ve never been to a show, expect to hear vocals like maybe never before,” Joe promises. “Expect your favorite country songs to come through with deeper meaning and richness. Get ready to laugh until your sides hurt, and bring tissues for some tears. At the end of the show, you’ll be looking at your watch wondering how all that time flew by and when the next show starts.”
Join us for Y’all Means All on March 21-23 at the Folly Theater and experience the power of music, unity, and storytelling.
Tickets ONLY at hmckc.org
Saturday- Sunday | April 5-6
White Theatre at The J
