There's no one kind of music that everyone in the world loves. We're all different people, with different kinds of tastes. But what I think most people can agree on is that the music we hear on the radio is overwhelmingly heteronormative. That may not be a problem for the majority of people listening to the radio, but when you do not identify as straight, it can be hard to relate and get into the music. So I made a list of LGBTQ-identifying musicians from a variety of genres for those that are tired of the heteronormativity.
1. Hayley Kiyoko
If you watched Disney Channel about seven years ago you might remember Hayley Kiyoko as a guest star on Wizards of Waverly Place or as one of the stars of the musical Lemonade Mouth. Now, Kiyoko has made a name for herself as one of the most popular female artists to unapologetically proclaim her love for other women through her music. I would describe her music as pop with a techno sound, but if you're looking for a female artist singing songs about being gay, definitely give her a listen.
Recommended song: "Girls Like Girls"
2. Frank Ocean
I think most people know Frank Ocean as that guy who lies about when his music is coming out. After finally releasing his long-awaited second album Blonde, we were all reminded how much we loved him and didn't care that he lied about his album release date. Although Ocean has never defined his sexuality, there is no denying that he loves men from just one listen through Blonde. If you like a smooth R&B feel, then Frank Ocean is the artist for you.
Recommended song: "Forrest Gump"
3. Mal Blum
I had never heard of Mal Blum until a friend of mine introduced them to me recently. Blum is a nonbinary artist that has a more low-key, chill vibe. Their songs are just their voice and a ukulele, which is nice to relax and listen to. There aren't a lot of nonbinary artists on the market, so definitely give Mal Blum a listen.
Recommended song: "The Bodies The Zombies"
4. Troye Sivan
I would say Troye Sivan is one of the more well-known LGBTQ artists. He openly identifies as gay and has multiple songs proclaiming his love for boys. His trilogy of music videos, "Blue Neighborhood", depicts two boys growing up and realizing their love for each other, as well as bringing attention to the high rates of suicide among LGBTQ youth. He has a similar sound to Kiyoko, kind of electronic pop, so listen to him if you're into that.
Recommended song: "Wild"
5. Fifth Harmony
While the entire group may not identify as LGBTQ, and their songs are typically heteronormative, one of the members, Lauren Jauregui, recently came out as bisexual. Since she is a member of one of the most popular pop groups on the radio right now, I think this is incredibly significant for representation.
Recommended song: "Squeeze"
6. Years & Years
I heard Years & Years for the first time when they opened for Ellie Goulding last year, and I really enjoyed their music. The lead singer, Olly Alexander, is openly gay and proud of it. Their music is electronic and will make you want to get up and dance. If you're looking for something fun, listen to Years & Years.
Recommended song: "Real"
