For the past few years, big-name artists like Taylor Swift and Harry Styles have been outwardly showing their support for the LGBTQ+ community. While this is great, there is still an overwhelming lack of artists that identify with the community making it into the popular media. With Orlando Pride right around the corner, I’m here to expand your horizons—and your pride playlists—with my current favorite artists that are actually members of the community.
- Hayley Kiyoko
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If you ever wondered what happened to Stella from Lemonade Mouth, then oh boy, do I have news for you. Hayley Kiyoko has been killing it in the LGBTQ+ music scene for years, but when it comes to mainstream music media, she’s definitely not getting the recognition she deserves. Like many other artists, her music is heavily inspired by her relationship experiences and, quite notably, her sexuality. So, if you relate to the plights of unrequited love and enjoy songs about it as much as I do, I highly recommend listening to “Sleepover,” “Molecules” and “I Wish.”
- morgxn
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As arguably the most underground and underrated artist in this list, morgxn has been making quite the name for himself. Even though he’s a queer artist and is very open about it, his music centers itself more around his experiences with anxiety, stress and grief. He sings about personal growth, finding oneself and what’s important to you, and just being able to exist in the world. Check out his songs “A New Way,” “Boys Don’t Cry” and “OMM!”
- King Princess
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If you tend to enjoy more of a soft-pop vibe, allow me to introduce you to my current musical obsession: King Princess. Just like Hayley Kiyoko, you’re sure to find that King Princess’ songs are heavily influenced by her sexuality. One thing I particularly love about her music is the religious, and sometimes historical, imagery she includes in her lyrics. Her debut album “Cheap Queen” is set to be released on October 25, but to hold you over until then, you should definitely check out “Holy,” “Pussy is God” and “1950.”
- Adam Lambert
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As the first queer artist I had ever heard of, you can only imagine my excitement when Adam Lambert finally released his long-awaited comeback album. Growing up, I bopped to Lambert’s “Whattaya Want From Me” and wondered what happened to him after his short-lived role on Glee. He then teased his return to the music scene by touring with Queen this past summer. The musical influence of the 70’s rock band is quite evident in his new album VELVET: Side A. Check out the songs “Superpower,” “Loverboy” and “Closer to You.”