Queer icon vocalists

We trust your Pride Month is proving excellent! During the previous week, our focus was on presenting ten emerging LGBTQ+ talents whom we anticipate will achieve global recognition. For the current week, our attention shifts to considering those LGBTQ+ artists who have already established a significant public presence. These are truly iconic musical figures who have served as inspirations, championed causes, and achieved remarkable success.

Regardless of whether their sexual orientation and gender identity have been openly acknowledged for an extended period, or if their personal definitions remained unrevealed across historical eras, it is our conviction that the twenty artists featured herein have not only produced enduring musical masterpieces but have also fundamentally improved global perceptions regarding the LGBTQ+ community.

It was necessary for us to restrict this compilation to merely twenty individuals (acknowledging, of course, the multitude of other extraordinary LGBTQ+ musical talents existing beyond this selection!); however, the artists selected were specifically chosen due to our firm belief that their enduring contributions have already withstood - or are destined to withstand - the relentless march of time. Our reverence for these musical figures extends beyond Pride Month, encompassing every single day of the year. Therefore, with no further delay, we present those whom we honor.

1. Lady Gaga

It was in the year two thousand ten that Gaga publicly disclosed her bisexuality, subsequent to an interview on 20/20 with Barbara Walters. Even had she opted to maintain a private stance on her sexual identity, we are certain that the colossal LGBTQ+ fanbase she currently commands would still exist. Drawing significant inspiration from the celebrated nineteen-eighties pop icon Madonna (herself a prominent champion of the LGBTQ+ community), Lady Gaga's energetic tracks have garnered widespread appeal among a multifaceted audience, encompassing individuals across various racial, religious, gender, and sexual identity spectrums.

Possessing boundless ambition, profound reverence for her predecessors, and unwavering bravery in delivering captivating performances, Gaga transcends the mere definition of an LGBTQ+ community role model; she stands, unequivocally, as one of the preeminent exemplars within the entire music sector. Furthermore, it should be noted that her composition from the year two thousand eleven, entitled "Born This Way," is widely recognized as among the most remarkable anthems ever created for Pride celebrations.

2. Freddie Mercury

Arguably the twentieth century's most formidable rock vocalist, Freddie Mercury's astounding vocal range was capable of inspiring immense devotion (it certainly drew seventy-two thousand spectators to Wembley Stadium in nineteen eighty-five for Queen's Live Aid performance). His stage presence consistently proved delightful, captivating, vibrant, and, in essence, utterly enthralling. Regrettably, he succumbed to complications stemming from AIDS in the year nineteen ninety-one, and his absence continues to be profoundly felt.

Regarding his personal sexual orientation, Freddie exhibited a curious duality, being both publicly demonstrative and privately discreet. Despite Mercury and the band Queen explicitly refusing to categorize his sexuality (out of concern that such an acknowledgment might adversely affect their professional trajectories), Mercury's romantic inclinations and conduct were, in fact, overtly bisexual in nature. Enduring partnerships were maintained by him with both Mary Austin and Jim Hutton. His memorable cross-dressing portrayal within the seminal music video for "I Want to Break Free" will remain etched in collective memory; moreover, although the true thematic focus of his masterpiece, "Bohemian Rhapsody," particularly concerning its connection to his sexuality, continues to be a subject of debate, its status as one of rock music's most monumental anthems is undeniably eternal.

3. Troye Sivan

Hailing from both Australia and South Africa, this singer-songwriter undeniably possesses the qualities of a superstar. Presently, Sivan ranks among the most prominent pop performers in the musical landscape, and he candidly embraces his identity as a gay man.

Initially, Sivan gained recognition as a YouTube creator, drawing a substantial audience of hundreds of thousands to his musical compositions. Additionally, he participated in a number of talent contests across Australia. His signing of a recording contract with EMI Australia and subsequent release of chart-topping singles and full-length albums was an inevitable progression. Ranging from tracks such as "Angel Baby" to "Strawberries & Cigarettes" and "YOUTH," Sivan's musical repertoire exhibits a refined and enduring quality.

4. Elton John

It brings us immense fortune to acknowledge that Sir Elton John persists in flourishing, creating melodies, and embodying the remarkable LGBTQ+ icon he has always been. In the nineteen-seventies, John revealed his bisexuality (subsequently identifying as gay), and from that point onward, he has been a steadfast champion for the rights of queer individuals and young people.

Our admiration for Elton John stems from his vibrant sartorial choices, his emotionally candid compositions, and his readiness to engage in partnerships with numerous emerging artists. It is our firm conviction that John will be eternally etched into history as an unparalleled musical genius, and we are profoundly thankful for the memorable melodies such as "Rocket Man" and "Tiny Dancer" that he has bequeathed us for collective enjoyment.

5. Boy George

This particular English singer-songwriter is most widely recognized for the Culture Club's chart-topping song, "Karma Chameleon." Beyond his contributions to the nineteen-eighties band, George additionally achieved renown for his distinctive androgynous look, which played a pivotal role in establishing the glam rock genre.

In the year nineteen eighty-three, George formally declared his bisexuality during an interview with Joan Rivers on her program; when directly questioned, "Do you prefer men or women?" George simply responded, "Oh both." However, within his nineteen ninety-five autobiography, titled Take It Like a Man, George subsequently elucidated that his true identity was gay, rather than bisexual, and furthermore, he disclosed clandestine relationships with punk rock vocalist Kirk Brandon and Culture Club's percussionist, Jon Moss. A significant number of the compositions penned by him for Culture Club revolve around his connection with Moss. Anticipation is high for his forthcoming biographical film!

6. David Bowie

While Boy George contributed to the early development of the glam rock movement, David Bowie's image will eternally epitomize it. As one of the nineteen-seventies and early nineteen-eighties' most esteemed vocalists, Bowie crafted an ethereal, transcendent body of musical work which, in turn, has served as a profound influence for innumerable rock artists who followed his path. Subsequent to his demise in two thousand sixteen, Rolling Stone bestowed upon him the title of "greatest rock star ever," and more recently, it has come to light (in two thousand twenty-two) that Bowie holds the distinction of being the twenty-first century's top-selling vinyl artist.

In a nineteen seventy-two interview with Michael Watts for a Melody Maker issue, Bowie initially announced himself as gay, a declaration that paralleled his pursuit of fame under the guise of his alter ego, Ziggy Stardust. Subsequently, he clarified his identity as bisexual. Even though he maintained candor regarding his sexuality, it could be argued that Bowie's most profound impact on the LGBTQ+ community lay in his distinctive androgynous stage persona and his spectacular makeup artistry. Ultimately, his unwavering commitment to expressing his genuine, artistic self was paramount, and for this, our esteem for him will remain unwavering.

7. Lil Nas X

Being equally gifted, witty, and pioneering, Lil Nas X transitioned from being a timid, closeted adolescent managing a Nicki Minaj fan page on Twitter to becoming Generation Z's foremost influential gay icon. He has consistently demonstrated fearlessness in addressing his sexual identity within his musical creations. Spanning from the audacious self-assurance of "MONTERO (CALL ME BY YOUR NAME)" to the raw emotional openness of "SUN GOES DOWN," Lil Nas X has significantly advanced LGBTQ+ visibility, one composition after another.

The narrative of Lil Nas X's ascent to prominence is as distinctive as his own persona. He achieved an instant, monumental triumph with his breakthrough hip-hop country track "Old Town Road," which was later remixed featuring Billy Ray Cyrus and garnered two Grammy Awards. With the global spotlight firmly upon him, the budding artist opted to delve further into his artistic endeavors, creating music that truly mirrored his genuine self and character.

8. Prince

Prince emerged as an indelible queer icon within music's annals, irrespective of his personal intentions in that regard. This phenomenon is largely attributable to his gender-bending aesthetic, provocative compositions resonating with alienated young people, and an initial public image of an artist championing unrestrained self-expression. Although his concluding years generated considerable contention within the LGBTQ+ community, his fluid, non-conforming stage presence undoubtedly forged a path for contemporary queer-identified performers such as Harry Styles and Bad Bunny.

He, alongside Madonna, came to symbolize sexual liberation during the nineteen-eighties. It is Prince's daring compositions, including "Purple Rain" and "When Doves Cry," combined with his audial explorations featuring a feminine alter ego dubbed Camille, which have collectively etched enduring impacts upon both the realm of music and the annals of queer popular culture.

9. Janis Joplin

An incandescent meteor within the nascent rock 'n' roll scene, she tragically became a member of the '27 Club' long before her time. During her brief yet tumultuous existence, the formidable vocalist Janis Joplin engaged in diverse relationships with both men and women, thus defining her as bisexual. While Joplin never openly discussed her sexual orientation, her captivating yet genuine demeanor served as a source of inspiration for members of the hippie counterculture who identified with her restrictive, conservative early life.

Joplin possessed an endearing allure, both during her live performances and in her private interactions. Her explosive live renditions of "Ball and Chain" and "Piece of My Heart" will forever remain indelible in our minds. Indeed, her vocal delivery vibrated with an electric intensity. Notwithstanding the adversities she faced throughout her existence, we remain thankful for the tranquility and affection she imparted to us amidst the turbulent nineteen-sixties.

10. George Michael

Similar to Bowie and Prince, George Michael stands as another distinguished LGBTQ+ luminary who departed from us in two thousand sixteen. This English singer-songwriter gained widespread acclaim primarily for his successful tracks, notably "Faith" and "Careless Whisper." Furthermore, he established the musical pair Wham! alongside Andrew Ridgeley in nineteen eighty-one, and is widely considered among the most significant artists to emerge during the MTV era.

Subsequent to his arrest for an act of public indecency in nineteen ninety-eight, Michael disclosed his gay identity to the global community. During the latter part of his life, Michael evolved into an unwavering advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and a dedicated fundraiser for HIV/AIDS charities.

11. Ricky Martin

The Puerto Rican-born luminary behind "Livin' La Vida Loca" publicly revealed his gay identity in two thousand eleven. However, this revelation was not without its challenges: he felt compelled to suspend his touring activities in nineteen ninety-nine, during the zenith of his celebrity, to genuinely undertake self-discovery and contemplate his desired public perception. Following the disclosure of his sexuality within his memoir, he has experienced profound contentment, stating to NBC in two thousand twenty that he has "been super happy ever since."

Drawing inspiration from Elton John, Martin has established himself as an undeniable powerhouse within the global Latin music sphere. His extensive musical catalog encompasses a diverse array of genres, among them Latin pop, pop, dance, reggaeton, and salsa. Indeed, he has been bestowed with the moniker "King of Latin Pop," a title substantiated by his Grammy Award.

12. Miley Cyrus

As an openly pansexual artist, Miley Cyrus made an explosive, transformative impact on the music industry. Her significant professional achievements are hardly astonishing, given that musical aptitude is clearly an inherited trait within her family lineage. Her father, Billy Ray Cyrus, captivated listeners with "Achy Breaky Heart," concurrently, her sister, Noah Cyrus, is an emerging talent.

Although Cyrus has not delved extensively into the explicit lyrical expression of her sexuality within her compositions, it is nonetheless courageous, liberation-themed tracks such as "Mother's Daughter," "Can't Be Tamed," and "We Can't Stop" that solidify her status as an iconic figure within the queer community.

13. Barry Manilow

Boasting a career that has encompassed seven decades, soft rock vocalist Barry Manilow possesses one of the most readily recognizable voices in the entertainment industry. In two thousand seventeen, he disclosed his gay identity, following numerous years during which he kept his true self concealed. His hesitation stemmed from a worry that it might displease his predominantly female audience. Nonetheless, upon discovering his same-sex union with Garry Kief in two thousand fourteen, his admirers reacted with approval and support.

Manilow initiated his professional journey in the nineteen-sixties and has consistently enchanted audiences with compositions such as "Copacabana (At the Copa)," "Could It Be Magic," "Mandy," "I Write the Songs," and "Can't Smile Without You." Additionally, over the course of his extensive career, he has issued thirteen platinum and six multi-platinum albums. It comes as no surprise, then, that Frank Sinatra lauded him in the nineteen-seventies, famously declaring to the media, "He's next."

14. RuPaul

While you might recognize RuPaul from her celebrated program, Drag Race, it is important to note that prior to becoming a television personality, she was an accomplished vocalist who garnered significant attention with her nineteen ninety-three track, "Supermodel (You Better Work)."

Acknowledged as the planet's most commercially triumphant drag queen, RuPaul Andre Charles established residence in New York City during the early nineteen-nineties, subsequently becoming a prominent figure within the LGBTQ+ nightlife circuit. Within the musical domain - particularly concerning the art of drag performance - RuPaul laid the essential groundwork, enabling subsequent queens such as Trixie Mattel and Gloria Groove to thrive with greater ease and speed.

15. Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe, an artist of extensive talents, serves as an exemplary figure for individuals who identify as pansexual and non-binary. Monáe commenced their musical journey in two thousand three with the unveiling of a demo album, specifically named The Audition. During the ensuing period, they achieved recognition as a Grammy nominee, an MTV Video Music Award recipient, and even assumed the role of a CoverGirl spokesperson. Notably, October sixteenth has been designated "Janelle Monáe Day" within the municipality of Boston.

We are captivated by Monáe's powerful mezzo-soprano vocals, their genre-defying R&B approach, and her consistently striking sartorial selections observed during red carpet appearances. Our appreciation for her began with her initial performances of "Tightrope," and we consider it a privilege to have witnessed her evolution throughout the years.

16. Tyler, the Creator

Interestingly, Tyler, the Creator transitioned from being a component of the Odd Future collective - a group recognized for its provocatively violent, sexist, misogynistic, and homophobic lyrical content - to crafting one of history's most celebrated LGBTQ+ albums, Igor (released in two thousand nineteen). He is not the sole Odd Future member to publicly identify as bisexual (another artist will be discussed subsequently), yet among all individuals in the collective, he has achieved the greatest commercial triumph.

Recognized for his sophisticated, pastel visual style and distinctively coarse vocal delivery, Tyler's boisterous public image has served as a muse for innumerable artists, such as Billie Eilish, Lil Nas X, and Kevin Abstract. His body of work showcases an excellent fusion of vibrant party anthems and poignant emotional tracks, and we firmly believe the enduring impact he will have on hip hop music will be substantial.

17. Halsey

Hailing from New Jersey, this artist consistently enthralls us with her powerful tracks! Halsey candidly identifies as bisexual and is primarily recognized for her numerous Top Forty radio successes, including "Without Me," "Him & I," "Bad at Love," and "Closer" (a collaboration with The Chainsmokers).

A queer fanbase has been fostered by Halsey, largely attributable to her compositions addressing themes of freedom (for instance, "New Americana") and those that explore romantic connections with women. Halsey's latest album, titled If I Can't Have Love, I Want Power, is, in our estimation, a testament to their impressive artistic versatility. Within the sphere of music, Halsey's presence is undeniably enduring.

18. Kevin Abstract

Though acclaimed as a contemporary renaissance figure, Kevin Abstract might not command the widespread mainstream recognition enjoyed by the majority of other LGBTQ+ artists included herein, yet his inclusion is no less warranted. To date, he has certainly made a significant impression on the independent music landscape, and we eagerly anticipate his future endeavors following BROCKHAMPTON.

Notwithstanding a difficult childhood spent in Corpus Christi, Texas, Abstract succeeded in extricating himself from his arduous circumstances, owing to his relentless ambition and innate rap prowess. Concurrently sustaining a robust solo artistic path, he established the hip hop collective BROCKHAMPTON in two thousand ten, and the ensemble captivated audiences with fervor throughout that particular decade. Within both his tenure in BROCKHAMPTON and his individual artistic pursuits, Kevin transparently addresses his gay identity through his musical expressions. The evocative lyrical content found in his compositions "Miserable America," "EMPTY," and "JUNKY" resonates with particular intensity.

19. Leonard Bernstein

Is it widely known that the acclaimed composer of West Side Story, Peter Pan, and On the Waterfront identified as gay? Subsequent to a period spanning years during which he hid his homosexuality through engagements with women (including matrimony to actress Felicia Cohn Montealegre), Bernstein eventually disclosed his identity in nineteen seventy-six and then sought romantic connections with men.

Bernstein is widely regarded as among the preeminent conductors of his epoch, holding the distinction of being the inaugural American conductor to achieve global recognition. He holds the singular honor of being the first conductor born in America to direct a significant American symphony orchestra, subsequently assuming the role of music director for the New York Philharmonic. During the course of his illustrious life, Bernstein was honored with a total of seven Emmy Awards, two Tony Awards, sixteen Grammy Awards (among which was the Lifetime Achievement accolade), and the prestigious Kennedy Center Honor.

20. Frank Ocean

He represents the second individual from Odd Future to openly identify as bisexual. Frank Ocean embodies the archetype of an artist whose pioneering musical style profoundly connects with intellectually inclined audiences. Notoriously reserved, he frequently refrains from issuing new musical works for extended periods, sometimes spanning several years. Yet, when he eventually does, his releases invariably ignite considerable excitement and discussion within popular culture.

We recall the significant impact of Ocean's public declaration of his sexuality. The chain of events began when Ocean composed an open letter, originally conceived for inclusion in the liner notes of Channel Orange, which proactively addressed existing conjectures regarding his historical attraction to another male. Rather, on the fourth of July, two thousand twelve, the aforementioned open letter was disseminated by him via his personal Tumblr blog. While his fanbase expressed initial astonishment, they proved to be overwhelmingly supportive in the end. Subsequently, Ocean has maintained an open approach concerning his sexuality through compositions such as "Chanel," "Self Control," "Siegfried," and "Forrest Gump."

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_{Image for Article: Depicting Freddie Mercury singing in a black and white checkered jumpsuit in nineteen seventy-seven, Janelle Monáe exhibiting an astonished facial expression during a performance at Rock Werchter Festival in two thousand nineteen, and David Bowie playing the guitar at a concert in nineteen ninety. (Carl Lender [CC BY-SA 3.0] via Wikimedia Commons, benhoudijk via DepositPhotos, Les Zg [CC BY-SA 4.0] via Wikimedia Commons )}