Celebrating and recognizing the marginalized and underrepresented are vital for our social climate. In the world of music, there are many queer artists—both emerging and well-known—that continue to push the boundaries of pride and create a unique spectrum of queer self-expression. This Pride Month, let’s spotlight the queer musicians who make that mark. From catchy radio singles to vulnerable introspections, here are some of the best queer anthems to add to your playlists!
Good Luck, Babe! by Chappell Roan
Chappell Roan became a household name overnight with her debut album, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess. Hits like “HOT TO GO” and “Pink Pony Club” dominated the charts in 2024. However, her standout single, “Good Luck, Babe!”, illustrates the soul-crushing experience of sapphic love brought down by “comphet” (compulsory heterosexuality). This societal phenomenon compels a person to deny their queerness to conform to heterosexual norms. Inspired by Roan’s own identity and experiences as a lesbian, the track is raw and frustrating. It views the complexity of accepting queerness, wrapped in the universal experience of heartbreak. A perfect song to belt out those heavy emotions!
Ice Slippin by Omar Apollo
“Ice Slippin” by singer Omar Apollo captures another perspective of queer experiences. The song details Apollo’s deep personal pain and sadness following his family’s initial rejection of his sexuality. According to a Uproxx interview, he used the track to revisit thoughts and emotions during the winter he came out to his family, saying he received “cold judgment compared to the acceptance I felt I deserved.” The lyrics carry that emotional weight. Being open about queerness to one’s family is a moment of pure vulnerability. The pressure, judgment, and rejection that may come with that experience are a sad reality for many. “Ice Slippin” is an anthem of comfort and resilience for those needing to hear that they’re not alone.
LUNCH by Billie Eilish
On the other side of the mood spectrum lies Billie Eilish’s “LUNCH.” The track is a raunchy, unapologetic declaration of Eilish’s sexuality. It’s charged with sexual energy and infatuation, as she likens intimacy with another unnamed woman to “lunch.” Coming off of her third studio album, HIT ME HARD AND SOFT, its unfiltered yet catchy nature makes it a playful celebration of queer attraction. In an interview with Rolling Stone, Eilish recognizes the song as pivotal to her identity, saying, “That song was actually part of what helped me become who I am, to be real… I’ve been in love with girls for my whole life, but I just didn’t understand…” A queer anthem for embracing desire and being unafraid to let your freak flag fly!
Balloon by Tyler, The Creator & Doechii
Tyler, The Creator has never shied away from the nuances of his sexuality. Albums such as Flower Boy and IGOR are sprinkled with queer explorations and motifs of same-sex relations. However, his latest studio album Chromakopia marked one of his most vulnerable projects to date. He explores themes of identity, upbringing, regrets, complex relationships, and more. It’s the penultimate track, “Balloon,” that works perfectly as a queer anthem. It’s a chaotic, energetic celebration of authenticity. The song celebrates the freedom that accompanies self-expression and confidence in oneself, and Tyler’s playful beat matches the energy of the lyrics. As a cherry on top, Doechii, who identifies as bisexual, features with her signature swagger. Her playful demeanor complements Tyler’s personality well, making it an irresistible pride bop!
NISSAN ALTIMA by Doechii
Doechii has excelled in cementing her place in hip-hop with her Album of the Year Grammy-winning album, Alligator Bites Never Heal. “NISSAN ALTIMA,” the ninth track on the album and the lead single, is its crown jewel. It’s another fierce, provocative, and sexy celebration of identity and confidence. She boldly proclaims her status as the best in the new generation of hip-hop. Lines such as “I’m the new hip-hop Madonna, I’m the trap Grace Jones”, both of whom are iconic bisexual musicians, underscore her assertiveness. Yet another high-energy bop that finds power in unapologetic self-worth; a great sentiment for Pride Month!
Baddy On The Floor by Jamie xx, Honey Dijon
What do you get when you combine Jamie xx, a member of indie-pop band The xx, and renowned trans DJ Honey Dijon? In the case of “Baddy On The Floor“, you get an addictive dance song! The track’s house music production and horns create the perfect summer jam for any fun nights and Pride parties. As someone who frequently headlines shows in Ibiza and festivals around the world, Dijon is definitely an LGBTQ+ artist to keep your ear out for!
Feel A Way by Kaytranada, Don Toliver
Producer and rapper Kaytranada’s 2024 album Timeless is a deep look into creative identity and the complexity of being in the music industry. The sixth track, “Feel A Way,” offers a mellow, laid-back vibe that’s still lyrically packed with queer-adjacent meaning. Don Toliver sings about deep insecurities, imperfections, and self-judgments getting in the way of love. Despite this, a deep yearning for connection survives. Since coming out as gay in 2016, Kaytranada’s lyrics can resonate with any queer experience, making it a meaningful addition to any playlist.
Paprika by Japanese Breakfast
Indie-pop band Japanese Breakfast’s 2021 song, “Paprika,” is a timeless, heartwarming love letter to joy and self-realization. Front woman Michelle Zauner, who identifies as bisexual, uses the song as an expression of joy in creating art, appreciating the fortune of building a music career. However, lines such as “How’s it feel to be at the center of magic” and “Oh, it’s a rush” evoke more than career blessings. They radiate that sense of wonder and happiness that encapsulates the Pride ethos. All joy, especially queer joy, is worth celebrating. A song like that is a must on any Pride playlist!
What's Your Reaction?
