8 LGBTQ+ Artists to Add to Your Playlist

I’m loving all the accomplishments of the LGBTQ+ community, from legalizing gay marriage, to owning businesses, to talking about ongoing issues through music.

If you’re looking for some new music to listen to, here’s 10 artists that certainly know how to make us feel good and inspired at the same time.

1. Angel Haze

Originally from Detroit, Angel Haze is a pansexual artist who inspires her fellow assault survivors through her rhythms.

2. Bobby Lytes

Bobby Lytes is a current cast member of VH1’s Love and Hip-Hop Miami. He’s also the younger cousin of female rapper, Trina, so there’s definitely going to be some competition, but he’s a determined firecracker who wants to make it big as an openly gay rapper.

3. CupcakKe

This Chicago chick is one not to take lightly, especially with her raw and naughty lyrics. She’s the definition of sex and controversy since she’s not only a true supporter of the community, but also believes in being open and free with yourself. Her new album, Ephorize recently came out with great reviews and she’s coming to Philly as part of her new tour in Early March.

4. Halsey

Now I know she’s not exactly a new artist, but Halsey has been making a name for herself within Pop with her latest album, Hopeless Fountain Kingdom. Her songs prove that love is love at the end of the day, so whether singing about bad relationships in “Bad At Love” or craving for intimacy in “Strangers,” she lays down her truth.

5. Hayley Kiyoko

Hayley Kiyoko is honestly one of my faves on this list, since her writing style and singing is catchy and relatable. She especially speaks to those who struggled or are currently struggling with their sexuality. Ever since her first single, “Girls Like Girls,” she continues telling her fans about her own coming out journey with her latest single, “Curious”.  

6. Kehlani

This R&B princess in the making has one of the sweetest voices on this list. Her latest single, “Already Won,” is an instant self-esteem booster, while “Honey” is a sweet love song that has been the highlight of my morning playlist. Both are simple songs that each have a solid message. Kehlani is another artist who doesn’t let her sexuality define her nor her music. Also, she’s stopping in Philly on March 23rd at the Well Fargo Center, so make sure to get tickets and see her live for yourself.

7. Shamir

Shamir is a Philly native that proves that despite coping with mental illness and being an openly gay artist, he doesn’t let that affect his music, whether he’s experimenting with pop, indie, hip hop, or rock. The list of genres are endless when it comes to Shamir and the best thing is that all his songs are completely different from one another. His latest album, Revelations, is fantastic, but my favorite song is “90’s Kids” since, well I’m a 90’s kid and proud of it.

8. Troye Sivan

Finally, we get to Troye! He not only just released a new music video for his single, “My My My,” but he also just came out with another new single called “The Good Side.” Honestly, as a loyal fan, I can’t wait until Troye Sivan releases his new album soon.

These guys are all amazing artists each in their own right and I hope that I was convincing enough that you’re listening to them as I’m finishing this sentence right now.

––Kiana Tjerrell