20 of the Most Influential Queer Musicians

Introduction

In the world of music, queer artists have had a profound impact across genres, challenging norms, and championing LGBTQ+ representation. This article highlights some of the most influential LGBTQ+ musicians whose talent and courage have left an indelible mark on the industry. From pioneers like Rufus Wainwright and Brandi Carlile to rising stars like King Princess and Hayley Kiyoko, these artists bring forward their unique voices, experiences, and perspectives. Their work not only shapes the soundscape but also fosters inclusivity and visibility for the LGBTQ+ community in music

20 Influential Queer Musicians

1. Rufus Wainwright

Rufus Wainwright is a Canadian-American singer-songwriter known for his unique blend of opera, pop, and folk. With a distinctive voice and theatrical flair, Wainwright has released critically acclaimed albums such as Want One and Want Two, and composed the opera Prima Donna. Openly gay, Wainwright has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and has brought queer perspectives into his music. His songs often explore themes of love, loss, and identity with a poetic and sophisticated approach.

2. Hayley Kiyoko

Hayley Kiyoko, often referred to as “Lesbian Jesus” by her fans, is an American singer, songwriter, and actress who has become an LGBTQ+ icon. Her breakthrough single Girls Like Girls unapologetically showcased her queer identity, which resonated with a young, diverse audience. Kiyoko’s music focuses on queer love and empowerment, making her a pivotal figure in LGBTQ+ representation in pop music. She has also appeared in films and TV shows, gaining visibility both in music and acting.

3. Brandi Carlile

Brandi Carlile is an American singer-songwriter who blends country, folk, and rock in her emotionally charged music. Known for her powerful vocals and heartfelt lyrics, Carlile’s 2018 album By the Way, I Forgive You earned her multiple Grammy Awards. Openly gay, Carlile has been a strong advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, often addressing themes of love, faith, and social justice in her work. As part of The Highwomen, she has pushed for greater female representation in country music.

4. Tash Sultana

Tash Sultana is an Australian multi-instrumentalist, singer, and songwriter known for their genre-defying music that fuses rock, reggae, and psychedelic vibes. A self-taught musician, Sultana gained international attention through viral live performances and their debut album Flow State. As a non-binary artist, Sultana has become a strong advocate for queer representation in the music industry. Their intricate, loop-based performances, where they play multiple instruments live, have garnered critical acclaim for their creativity and originality.

5. Perfume Genius

Perfume Genius, the stage name of Mike Hadreas, is an American singer-songwriter known for his deeply emotional and avant-garde music. Perfume Genius’s work explores themes of identity, queerness, trauma, and healing, blending indie pop, rock, and art music. His 2017 album No Shape and 2020’s Set My Heart on Fire Immediately received widespread acclaim for their experimental sound and evocative lyricism. As an openly gay artist, Perfume Genius has used his music to challenge gender norms and celebrate queer identity.

6. Christine and the Queens

Christine and the Queens is the stage name of French artist Héloïse Letissier. Known for her blend of electropop and thought-provoking lyrics, she challenges traditional gender roles and explores themes of identity and queerness in her music. As a pansexual artist, Christine has become a voice for gender fluidity, embracing androgyny in her performances. Albums like Chaleur Humaine and Chris have garnered international acclaim, making her a standout figure in both the music world and LGBTQ+ advocacy.

7. King Princess

King Princess, born Mikaela Straus, is an American singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist who rose to fame with her breakout single 1950, an ode to queer love and identity. Openly genderqueer and gay, King Princess blends pop, rock, and soul to create music that resonates with LGBTQ+ audiences. Her debut album Cheap Queen further cemented her status as a queer icon in modern pop music. She uses her platform to promote queer visibility and challenge gender norms in the industry.

8. Will Young

Will Young is a British singer-songwriter and actor who gained fame after winning the first season of Pop Idol in 2002. He became one of the UK’s most successful male pop artists, with hits like Leave Right Now. Young came out as gay shortly after his rise to fame, becoming one of the few openly gay artists in mainstream British pop at the time. He has since been an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and mental health awareness, using his platform for activism.

9. Tom Robinson

Tom Robinson is an English singer-songwriter and radio presenter, best known for his 1978 hit Glad to Be Gay, a defiant anthem for LGBTQ+ rights. As a prominent activist during the 1970s and ’80s, Robinson used his music to challenge societal norms and fight for equality. He was a founding member of the Tom Robinson Band, known for blending punk and political messages. His work has had a lasting impact on queer music and LGBTQ+ activism.

10. Shamir

Shamir is a non-binary artist from Las Vegas whose genre-defying music spans indie, pop, and R&B. Known for their androgynous voice and eclectic sound, Shamir’s breakout album Ratchet featured the hit On the Regular, which gained widespread acclaim for its energetic fusion of pop and electronic beats. Shamir openly explores gender identity, queerness, and mental health through their music, making them a prominent figure in the modern queer music scene.

11. MNEK

MNEK is a British singer, songwriter, and producer known for blending R&B, pop, and electronic music. As an openly gay artist, MNEK uses his platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and inclusion in the music industry. His hits, like Colour and Never Forget You, highlight his talent for crafting infectious, genre-crossing tracks. MNEK has also collaborated with artists like Beyoncé and Dua Lipa, solidifying his place as a leading queer voice in pop music.

12. Anohni (formerly Antony Hegarty)

Anohni, formerly known as Antony Hegarty of Antony and the Johnsons, is a British-American singer-songwriter celebrated for her haunting voice and avant-garde approach to music. Anohni, who is transgender, explores themes of identity, politics, and environmental activism in her work. Her 2016 album Hopelessness marked a departure into politically charged electronica and received widespread acclaim for its bold commentary on global issues.

13. Jake Shears (Scissor Sisters)

Jake Shears is the flamboyant frontman of the glam-pop band Scissor Sisters, known for hits like I Don’t Feel Like Dancin’ and Take Your Mama. As an openly gay artist, Shears has long been a beacon for LGBTQ+ visibility in the music world. His energetic performances, bold style, and empowering lyrics have made him a beloved figure in queer pop culture, with Scissor Sisters serving as an anthem for the LGBTQ+ community.

14. Brittany Howard

Brittany Howard, lead vocalist and guitarist of Alabama Shakes, has become one of the most powerful voices in rock and soul music. As a queer woman, Howard has openly discussed her identity and how it influences her music. Her solo album Jaime dives deeply into personal and social themes, blending genres like rock, R&B, and funk, and earning critical acclaim for its raw, emotional depth.

15. Sia

Sia, an Australian singer-songwriter, is known for her powerful voice and her distinctive songwriting. While maintaining a level of personal privacy, Sia has been an ally of the LGBTQ+ community throughout her career. Songs like Elastic Heart and Chandelier demonstrate her artistic vulnerability, and she has worked with queer artists like Maddie Ziegler and collaborated on projects that elevate LGBTQ+ visibility. Her unique approach to fame and advocacy has made her a staple in both pop music and queer representation.

16. Patrick Wolf

Patrick Wolf is an English singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist known for his eclectic mix of folk, electronic, and chamber pop. Openly bisexual, Wolf has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. His theatrical performances and deeply personal lyrics explore themes of identity, love, and self-discovery. Albums like The Magic Position and Lupercalia have earned him critical acclaim for their rich instrumentation and emotional depth.

17. Le Tigre

Le Tigre is an American feminist, electro-punk band formed by Kathleen Hanna, Johanna Fateman, and JD Samson. Known for their political activism, Le Tigre’s music tackles themes of feminism, LGBTQ+ rights, and anti-racism. Their catchy beats and confrontational lyrics, as heard in songs like Deceptacon, have made them icons in the riot grrrl and queer music movements.

18. SOPHIE

SOPHIE, a Scottish electronic music producer and transgender artist, revolutionized pop and electronic music with her hyper-pop sound. Known for her avant-garde production and futuristic beats, SOPHIE worked with artists like Charli XCX and Madonna. Her 2018 album Oil of Every Pearl’s Un-Insides was praised for its exploration of identity, fluidity, and trans experiences, making her a trailblazing figure in queer music.

19. Jónsi (Sigur Rós)

Jónsi, the lead vocalist and guitarist of Icelandic post-rock band Sigur Rós, is openly gay and has been an influential figure in the indie and post-rock scene. Known for his ethereal falsetto and cinematic soundscapes, Jónsi’s music, both with Sigur Rós and in his solo work, conveys deep emotional experiences. His solo album Go showcases his unique blend of electronic elements and orchestral grandeur.

20. Ezra Furman

Ezra Furman is an American singer-songwriter known for her raw, confessional music that blends punk, indie rock, and folk. Openly genderqueer and bisexual, Furman uses her music to explore themes of identity, faith, and rebellion. Albums like Transangelic Exodus and Twelve Nudes have made her a queer icon, with her fearless performances and politically charged lyrics resonating with fans around the world.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the contributions of these queer artists have reshaped the music industry, each bringing their authentic selves and unique perspectives to the forefront. From Rufus Wainwright’s operatic pop to Perfume Genius’s exploration of identity and trauma, these musicians have paved the way for greater LGBTQ+ representation in their respective genres. Their courage to express their true selves, both in their art and personal lives, continues to inspire new generations of listeners and creators, proving that music is a powerful tool for inclusivity and change.

Additional Reading

More blog posts can be found here. Consider following Breve Music Lessons on Facebook.