The very best music the LGBTQ+ community has to offer in 2021.
With the live scene back in full swing, the music business is buzzing. We wanted to spotlight some of our favourite music from Queer artists in the electro-pop, alternative and hip-hop scenes. We created an exclusive playlist that we will keep updated with the latest and greatest LGBTQ+ music. Here are some picks from the playlist that are ones to watch in 2021.
Lil Nas X
Everything is set for Lil Nas to become the most successful LGBTQ+ artist of the decade. Having triggered homophobes around the world. Nas is on a mission to change the conversation around sex-positivity in the Queer community and its public perception. He’s come a long way from ‘Old Town Road’ with Billy Ray Cyrus. He’s not one to watch – he’s one you can’t escape.
Arlo Parks
The bisexual Mercury Prize winner is a diamond in the rough – with alternative and sensitive belters on tap. She embraces ambience and metaphor to tell her Gen Z story of a 21-year-old black woman growing up in South London. She’s definitely not one to sleep on – not that anyone is.
MAY-A
MAY-A is an Aussie from New South Wales and a personal fave at Pride Life HQ. Born in 2001 – yes that’s right 2001 – she already making waves with her fuzzy guitars and ear for infectious hooks. Somewhat reminiscent of 2000’s indie-pop, her debut showcases her range both vocally and in her songwriting. Her debut album ‘Don’t Kiss You Friends’ dances across tempos and genres for fun. MAY-A is one to watch for sure.
Lynks
Lynks could not get any camper if they tried. Perhaps the most glam artist on the Queer scene at the moment – Lynks stock has skyrocketed in the past 12 months – despite the pandemic. From dueting with Frank Carter on his single ‘Go Get a Tattoo’ to the main stage slot at Latitude Festival – it is clear Lynks is on the cusp of something massive.
She Drew The Gun
Since winning the Glastonbury Emerging Talent prize in 2016 – joining the likes of Scouting for Girls, The Subways and Declan McKenna. She Drew The Gun have been killing it on the international live scene. A proud feminist and bisexual, she takes inspiration from the likes of Courtney Barnett and Kae Tempest. Political, personal, and a much-needed kick up the arse.
Grove
There ain’t no stopping Grove. The Bristol-based rapper and R&B star-to-be is proudly flying the non-binary flag. They bring their 90’s hip-hop sound to the table, with 2020’s sensibilities. We can’t help but think there are big things on the horizon for Grove… and soon!
Cormac Todd
We can not get enough of fresh-faced Cormac Todd, and his new single ‘Lifeboat’. Despite being early in his career, he has already received support from MACAQ, Pete Smith, and AWAL. The Irish electro-pop debut is quietly reflective and grapples with the small-town mindset, exploring friendship, queer love and boundaries.