Ari Gold is a real person, not just a television character. But the openly gay R&B singer-songwriter, who happens to share a name with a character on the HBO series “Entourage,” knows a little something about the search for personal identity, and he doesn’t let the coincidence get in the way of his artistic goal: making music with a message. Gold was raised in an Orthodox family in the Bronx, and he attended yeshiva through high school and beyond. His forthcoming album, “Transport Systems,” examines issues ranging from gay relationships and spirituality to drug addiction and human rights.

“The social and political issues [in my music] come from my personal experience of being a gay man. It makes you automatically political just by talking about your life,” Gold told The Shmooze. “One thing that influences my feelings about [being openly gay] is the concept of hiding and the history of Jews having to hide who they were… yet they still found ways to practice their beliefs. It was a very powerful message to me.”

“Transport Systems” will be released October 2, but those looking for a preview can see Gold perform September 4 at Joe’s Pub in New York.

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