The Best LGBTQ+ Musicians
The LGBTQ+ community has long been celebrated within the music industry, as some of the biggest stars of the late 20th century and beyond have identified themselves as such. While it shouldn't matter whether a singer or band is gay, lesbian, transgender, and so on, there have been plenty throughout music's history that completely shine. In fact, some of the greatest musicians to date were and are openly gay, and their music stands the test of time no less.
Of all the LGBTQ+ musicians and bands, both old and new, some have taken the music world by storm. Freddie Mercury, and Elton John are just a few gay musicians who've become complete LGBTQ+ icons. Yet, plenty of LGBTQ+ groups are following close behind, making names for themselves in the industry, as well as bringing much-needed attention to the entire community. These names include Tyler Glenn, Baths, and Kevin Abstract, among many others you'll find on the list below. In short, music may be one of the most all-inclusive industries we know—and we should all be happy about that.
So, who do you think are the best LGBTQ+ musicians? Take a look at the list below and vote up your favorites, and feel free to add others to the list.
- Pop music, Rock music, Rockabilly
A captivating frontman and a genre-defining vocalist, this legendary lead singer of a British rock band is known for his flamboyant stage presence and incredible vocal range. As an openly queer icon, he became a symbol of strength and defiance in the face of adversity, inspiring generations of fans with his unapologetic and authentic self-expression. His powerful performances and unique songwriting abilities have solidified him as one of the most influential artists in music history.
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- Pop music, Rock music, Piano rock
With a career spanning over five decades, this iconic pianist, singer-songwriter has sold more than 300 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling musicians of all time. As an openly gay artist since the early 1970s, he has been a trailblazer for LGBTQ+ representation in the music industry while using his platform to advocate for HIV/AIDS awareness and other philanthropic causes. Known for his extravagant stage costumes and heartfelt ballads, he continues to captivate audiences around the globe.
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- Rock music, Psychedelic pop, Electronic music
An ever-evolving musical chameleon, this late British singer-songwriter was renowned for his distinctive voice, eclectic style, and groundbreaking exploration of gender fluidity through his alter egos like Ziggy Stardust. By challenging societal norms and pushing boundaries through his music and fashion choices, he became an influential figure within the LGBTQ+ community. His fearless approach to creativity has left an indelible mark on popular culture.
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- Pop, Dance, Electronic
This powerhouse pop diva is not only known for her chart-topping hits but also her unwavering support for LGBTQ+ rights and inclusivity. With her avant-garde fashion sense and theatrical performances, she has become a symbol of self-expression and acceptance for millions of fans around the world. Her undeniable talent as a singer, songwriter, actress, and activist cements her status as a true icon in music history.
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- Synthpop, New Wave, Dance-pop
As a member of the legendary pop duo Wham! and as a successful solo artist, this late British singer-songwriter captivated audiences with his soulful voice, catchy melodies, and heartfelt lyrics. Openly gay since the late 1990s, he became an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and HIV/AIDS awareness while breaking down barriers in the music industry. His undeniable talent and charisma have left a lasting legacy in popular culture.
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- Blues-rock, Pop music, Folk music
This multiple Grammy-winning singer-songwriter is known for her powerful vocals, introspective lyrics, and socially conscious themes. As a queer woman of color, she has been a trailblazer in the folk-rock genre, using her music as a platform to address issues such as racism, poverty, and LGBTQ+ rights. Her timeless songs continue to resonate with audiences around the world.
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- Alternative hip hop, Contemporary R&B, Pop
This enigmatic R&B artist made waves when he openly discussed his bisexuality in 2012, making him one of the first mainstream hip-hop/R&B musicians to do so. Known for his poetic lyricism and innovative production techniques, he has garnered critical acclaim for his groundbreaking albums that explore themes of love, identity, and self-discovery. His fearless honesty continues to inspire countless fans and fellow musicians alike.
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- Blues-rock, Rock music, Folk music
This late American singer-songwriter, known for her raw and powerful voice, captivated audiences with her emotive performances and soulful blues-rock sound. As a bisexual woman in the 1960s counterculture movement, she defied societal expectations and became an emblem of rebellion and freedom for many fans. Her tragically short career left an indelible mark on music history, making her one of the most influential artists of her time.
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- #18 of 318 onThe 300+ Best Rock Singers Of All Time, Ranked
- Glam punk, Rock and roll, Hard rock
As the frontwoman of her eponymous band and a founding member of the all-female rock group The Runaways, this queer rock icon is known for her gritty vocals, fierce attitude, and pioneering role in the male-dominated world of rock 'n' roll. Her infectious anthems continue to empower generations of fans, while her candid discussions about her sexuality have made her an important figure within the LGBTQ+ community. Her enduring influence on popular culture solidifies her status as a true rock legend.
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- Contemporary R&B, Hip hop, Soul
A multi-talented musician, actress, and activist, this queer powerhouse is known for her genre-defying sound that blends elements of funk, soul, electronic music, and more. With her futuristic visual aesthetic and empowering messages of self-acceptance and inclusivity, she has become a role model for the LGBTQ+ community. Her artistry knows no bounds as she continues to push boundaries in both music and film.
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- Pop rap, Hip hop, Country rap
Rising to fame with his viral country-rap hit in 2019, this young artist made history when he came out as gay while his song was still dominating the charts. By seamlessly blending genres and redefining what it means to be a queer artist in the hip-hop community, he has quickly established himself as a trailblazer for LGBTQ+ representation. With his unapologetic self-expression and undeniable talent, he continues to break barriers in the music industry.
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- Disco, Pop music, Dance-pop
This iconic disco group took the world by storm in the late 1970s with their catchy dance hits and flamboyant costumes that celebrated various aspects of gay culture. Their campy yet infectious songs became anthems for both LGBTQ+ and mainstream audiences alike, proving that music can bring people together regardless of their differences. The group's lasting impact on pop culture serves as a testament to their unique ability to entertain and inspire.
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- Alternative hip hop
This innovative rapper, producer, and fashion designer has been pushing boundaries since he burst onto the scene with his unique blend of hip-hop, punk, and electronic music. As a queer artist in a genre that has not always been accepting of LGBTQ+ individuals, he has defied expectations and challenged norms through his fearless self-expression and provocative lyrics. His continued evolution as an artist ensures that he remains at the forefront of the music industry.
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- Pop, Hip hop
This pop singer-songwriter first took the world by storm with her party anthems but later revealed a more vulnerable side with powerful ballads that showcased her incredible vocal range and songwriting abilities. As a bisexual woman, she has been an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and mental health awareness, using her platform to raise funds for various charities and organizations. Her resilience in the face of adversity has made her a beloved figure among fans and fellow musicians alike.
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- Pop punk, New Wave, Rock music
As the lead vocalist and guitarist of the iconic punk rock band Green Day, this talented musician is known for his energetic performances and socially conscious lyrics that resonate with fans around the world. Openly identifying as bisexual since the early days of his career, he has been an important figure within the LGBTQ+ community while advocating for political change through his music. His enduring influence on both punk rock and popular culture solidifies his status as a true icon.
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- Torch song, Ballad, Swing music
This late jazz singer, nicknamed "Lady Day," was renowned for her emotive voice, deeply personal song interpretations, and ability to convey heartache and pain through her music. As a bisexual woman of color during the 1930s-1950s, she faced significant challenges but persevered to become one of the most influential vocalists in history. Her legacy continues to inspire countless artists across genres and generations.
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- #34 of 557 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of All Time, Ranked
- Pop music, Latin American music, Latin pop
This Puerto Rican pop sensation became a global superstar in the late 1990s with his infectious Latin-infused dance hits and charismatic stage presence. After coming out as gay in 2010, he has used his platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and raise awareness about issues affecting the community. His enduring appeal and commitment to activism have made him an influential figure in both music and social justice.
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- Pop, R&B, Soul
This British singer-songwriter rose to fame with their soulful voice, poignant lyrics, and emotive ballads that resonate with listeners around the world. As a non-binary artist who uses they/them pronouns, they have become an important advocate for gender diversity and LGBTQ+ representation in the music industry. Their openness about their struggles with mental health and self-acceptance serves as an inspiration to countless fans who may be facing similar challenges.
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- Synthpop, Pop music, Dance music
Dubbed "Lesbian Jesus" by her fans, this pop singer-songwriter and actress is known for her catchy tunes, relatable lyrics, and unapologetic celebration of her queer identity. By centering her music around her experiences as a lesbian woman, she has become a role model for LGBTQ+ youth who may not see themselves represented in mainstream media. Her dedication to promoting visibility and acceptance has earned her a devoted fanbase that continues to grow.
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- Jump blues, Rock music, Rhythm and blues
Often referred to as the "architect of rock 'n' roll," this late singer-songwriter and pianist was known for his flamboyant performance style, powerful vocals, and groundbreaking fusion of gospel, blues, and R&B music. As a queer black man in the 1950s music scene, he defied societal norms and paved the way for future generations of LGBTQ+ musicians. His immense influence on popular music cannot be overstated, as countless artists have cited him as an inspiration.
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- Dream pop, Electropop
This South African-born Australian singer-songwriter and actor first gained fame as a YouTube personality before transitioning into a successful pop career with his heartfelt songs about love, identity, and self-discovery. As an openly gay artist since the beginning of his career, he has become a role model for LGBTQ+ youth who may not see themselves represented in mainstream media. His continued success serves as proof that being true to oneself can lead to great achievements.
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- New Wave, Pop music, Rock music
This quirky new wave band from Athens, Georgia rose to fame in the late 1970s with their unique blend of surf rock, dance music, and surreal humor. With openly queer members such as frontman Fred Schneider and guitarist Keith Strickland, the group became icons within the LGBTQ+ community for their unapologetic celebration of individuality and self-expression. Their infectious tunes and distinctive aesthetic continue to inspire fans and fellow musicians alike.
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- Thrash metal, Industrial metal, Groove metal
As the lead vocalist of the iconic heavy metal band Judas Priest, this talented musician is known for his powerful voice, commanding stage presence, and pioneering role in the development of the metal genre. As an openly gay man in a traditionally macho music scene, he has defied expectations and challenged stereotypes while becoming an important figure within the LGBTQ+ community. His enduring influence on both heavy metal and popular culture solidifies his status as a true icon.
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- Hip hop music, Contemporary R&B, Jazz
This multi-talented rapper, actress, and singer first gained fame in the late 1980s with her groundbreaking fusion of hip-hop and feminist themes. As a queer woman of color, she has been a trailblazer in the entertainment industry, using her platform to advocate for diversity, inclusion, and LGBTQ+ rights. Her impressive career and commitment to social justice have made her an influential figure both within and outside the music world.
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- Blues-rock, Heartland rock, Rock music
This Grammy-winning singer-songwriter is known for her raspy vocals, confessional lyrics, and passionate performances that have captivated audiences since the late 1980s. As an openly lesbian artist, she has been a trailblazer for LGBTQ+ representation in the music industry while using her platform to advocate for various social and environmental causes. Her enduring appeal and dedication to activism have made her a beloved figure among fans of all ages.
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- #169 of 318 onThe 300+ Best Rock Singers Of All Time, Ranked
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- Pop, Indie pop, Pop rock
A rising star in the indie-pop scene, this young singer-songwriter is known for her sultry vocals, catchy melodies, and unapologetic exploration of queer themes in her music. By centering her songs around her experiences as a genderqueer lesbian woman, she has become a role model for LGBTQ+ youth who may not see themselves represented in mainstream media. Her continued success serves as proof that authenticity and talent can go hand-in-hand.
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- Synthpop, New Wave, Pop music
This British synth-pop duo, consisting of Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe, has been captivating audiences since the early 1980s with their infectious dance hits and thought-provoking lyrics. As openly gay musicians, they have been important figures within the LGBTQ+ community while addressing themes such as love, loss, and societal issues in their music. Their enduring influence on electronic and pop music is undeniable.
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- Electropop, Synthpop, Indie pop
This genre-defying pop singer-songwriter first gained fame with her darkly poetic lyrics and haunting melodies that explore themes such as mental health, heartbreak, and self-discovery. As a bisexual woman with bipolar disorder, she has been an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and mental health awareness while breaking down barriers in the music industry. Her fearless honesty and undeniable talent have earned her a devoted fanbase that continues to grow.
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- Jangle pop, Pop music, Alternative rock
As the enigmatic frontman of the influential alternative rock band R.E.M., this talented singer-songwriter is known for his distinctive voice, poetic lyrics, and introspective themes that resonate with fans around the world. Identifying as queer, he has been an important figure within the LGBTQ+ community while advocating for various social and environmental causes throughout his career. His immense impact on both popular music and activism solidifies his status as a true icon.
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- Indie pop, Synthpop, Indie
This Canadian indie-pop duo, consisting of identical twin sisters Tegan and Sara Quin, has captivated audiences since the late 1990s with their heartfelt songwriting, harmonious vocals, and relatable exploration of love, identity, and self-discovery. As openly lesbian artists, they have been trailblazers for LGBTQ+ representation in the music industry while using their platform to advocate for social justice causes. Their enduring appeal and commitment to activism have made them beloved figures among fans and fellow musicians alike.
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