10.1 The emergence of queer voices in popular music
4 min read•july 30, 2024
LGBTQ+ voices in popular music have been shaping the industry for decades. From 's gender-defying blues in the 1920s to 's disco anthems in the 1970s, queer artists have pushed boundaries and challenged norms.
The and were pivotal moments for LGBTQ+ representation in music. These events sparked protest songs, activist art, and benefit concerts, while disco and underground scenes provided safe spaces for queer expression and community-building.
Pioneering LGBTQ+ Musicians
Trailblazers of the Early 20th Century
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- Gladys Bentley challenged gender norms as a blues singer during the Harlem Renaissance
- Performed in men's clothing
- Sang explicitly queer lyrics in the 1920s and 1930s
- Defied societal expectations for African American women
- Sylvester revolutionized disco and soul music in the 1970s and 1980s
- Openly gay artist known for his falsetto voice
- Flamboyant stage presence challenged heteronormative expectations
- Hits like "" became anthems in LGBTQ+ communities
Iconic Figures of the Rock Era
- redefined gender expression through his music and performances
- Androgynous persona challenged traditional masculinity
- Explored themes of gender fluidity and sexual ambiguity in songs ()
- Alter ego Ziggy Stardust pushed boundaries of gender performance
- of Queen subverted heteronormative expectations in rock music
- Theatrical performances incorporated elements of camp and drag
- Powerful vocal range and style defied masculine rock stereotypes
- Openly bisexual identity influenced discussions on sexual fluidity
Boundary-Pushers of the Late 20th Century
- 's coming out in 1992 marked a significant moment for lesbian visibility in music
- Transitioned from country to pop, challenging genre expectations
- Openly embraced butch aesthetic in performances and public appearances
- Advocated for LGBTQ+ rights throughout her career
- , the "Godfather of House Music," created safe spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals
- Pioneered house music in Chicago's club scene
- DJ sets and productions fostered inclusive environments for marginalized communities
- Influenced the development of electronic dance music culture
Queer Voices in Popular Music
Social and Political Catalysts
- Stonewall Riots of 1969 ignited the
- Increased visibility of LGBTQ+ identities in popular culture and music
- Inspired protest songs and politically charged performances (Stonewall Nation by Madeline Davis)
- AIDS crisis in the 1980s profoundly impacted LGBTQ+ representation in music
- Loss of numerous LGBTQ+ artists to the epidemic
- Emergence of activist art and benefit concerts ( compilation)
- movement influenced lyrics and performances
Cultural Movements and Spaces
- in the 1970s provided a platform for LGBTQ+ expression
- Clubs served as safe spaces for community-building
- Genre's popularity brought queer aesthetics into mainstream music ( by Village People)
- Underground and alternative music scenes offered platforms for LGBTQ+ voices
- Punk and riot grrrl movements embraced queer identities
- subgenre emerged, centering LGBTQ+ experiences (Team Dresch, Pansy Division)
Academic and Media Influences
- Queer theory and academic discourse in the 1990s shaped musical expression
- Concepts of gender performativity influenced artists' presentations
- Exploration of non-binary identities in music and performance art ()
- Increased media representation in the 2000s led to mainstream acceptance of queer artists
- LGBTQ+ characters and storylines in popular TV shows and films
- Out artists achieving commercial success (, )
Impact of Early LGBTQ+ Artists
Challenging Gender Norms
- and redefined masculinity in pop music
- Flamboyant costumes and performances challenged traditional male presentation
- Open discussions of sexuality in interviews and lyrics (George Michael's "Outside")
- Drag culture significantly influenced popular music
- 's performances in John Waters' films brought drag to wider audiences
- 's mainstream success opened doors for drag performers in music industry
Genre-Specific Contributions
- Lesbian folk musicians created visibility for queer women
- and achieved commercial success while openly out
- Lyrics addressed same-sex relationships and LGBTQ+ experiences
- LGBTQ+ artists pushed boundaries in various musical genres
- pioneered electronic music (Switched-On Bach)
- brought queer aesthetics to glam rock, predating more famous counterparts
Cultural and Visual Impact
- Open bisexuality of artists influenced discussions on sexual fluidity
- David Bowie's public declarations challenged binary notions of sexuality
- Freddie Mercury's relationships with men and women sparked conversations about bisexual visibility
- LGBTQ+ representation in music videos challenged heteronormative visual aesthetics
- Madonna's "Justify My Love" video featured bisexual and gender-nonconforming imagery
- Bronski Beat's "Smalltown Boy" depicted gay experiences and discrimination
Strategies for Navigating Challenges
Artistic Expression and Coding
- Coded language and symbolism in lyrics expressed queer identities
- Double entendres and ambiguous pronouns (Dusty Springfield's "The Look of Love")
- Use of queer slang and insider references (Lou Reed's "Walk on the Wild Side")
- Independent and underground music scenes provided alternative platforms
- embraced queer feminist perspectives
- LGBTQ+-specific music festivals () showcased queer talent
Industry Navigation and Community Building
- Strategic decisions about coming out impacted artists' careers
- Some chose to come out at career peaks (Elton John)
- Others waited until established (Ricky Martin)
- LGBTQ+-specific record labels and production companies created dedicated spaces
- focused on lesbian and feminist music
- supported LGBTQ+ punk and alternative artists
Activism and Allyship
- Music used as a tool for LGBTQ+ activism and advocacy
- Benefit concerts raised funds for AIDS research and support ()
- Songs addressed LGBTQ+ rights and issues (Macklemore & Ryan Lewis' "Same Love")
- Allies and supportive industry figures helped navigate challenges
- , openly gay music executive, supported LGBTQ+ artists
- Straight allies like Madonna and Cyndi Lauper used their platforms to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights
Key Terms to Review (39)
Adam Lambert: Adam Lambert is an American singer, songwriter, and actor known for his powerful vocals and theatrical performances. He gained fame as a runner-up on the eighth season of 'American Idol' in 2009 and has since become a prominent figure in the music industry, particularly as a representative of queer voices in popular music. His openness about his sexuality and the themes of acceptance and self-expression in his music resonate with many, marking a significant step forward for LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream media.
Aids crisis: The AIDS crisis refers to the devastating impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic that emerged in the late 20th century, particularly during the 1980s and 1990s. This public health emergency disproportionately affected marginalized communities, especially gay men and people of color, and led to significant social, political, and cultural responses, including activism that influenced popular music and the emergence of queer voices in the industry.
Antony and the Johnsons: Antony and the Johnsons is an American musical project led by vocalist Antony Hegarty, known for its unique blend of baroque pop and experimental sounds. The project gained recognition for its exploration of themes related to identity, gender, and social justice, making it a significant voice in the emergence of queer representation in popular music.
Bronski Beat's 'Smalltown Boy': 'Smalltown Boy' is a song by the British synth-pop group Bronski Beat, released in 1984, which addresses themes of alienation and rejection faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in society. The song's powerful lyrics and emotive melody reflect the struggles of being gay in a conservative environment, encapsulating the experiences of many who felt marginalized and excluded during that time. Its impact was significant in giving a voice to queer experiences within the popular music landscape, especially in the context of the 1980s, when mainstream representation of LGBTQ+ issues was minimal.
David Bowie: David Bowie was a groundbreaking British musician, singer, and actor known for his innovative work in popular music and his androgynous persona. He played a pivotal role in the emergence of queer voices in music, challenging gender norms and encouraging self-expression through his artistic endeavors. Bowie's influence extends to contemporary LGBTQ+ artists, who draw inspiration from his ability to fuse music with advocacy for identity and acceptance.
David Geffen: David Geffen is a prominent American music executive and producer known for founding Geffen Records and for his influential role in the music industry. His work has been pivotal in promoting artists who have voiced LGBTQ+ themes, contributing to the emergence of queer voices in popular music. Geffen's impact extends beyond record production, as he has played a significant role in shaping the landscape of the music business while advocating for the representation of diverse sexual orientations.
Disco culture: Disco culture refers to a social and musical phenomenon that emerged in the 1970s, characterized by dance music, vibrant nightlife, and a distinctive fashion style. It played a pivotal role in the acceptance and visibility of queer identities within popular music, as disco clubs became safe spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals to express themselves freely and connect with one another. The music itself, often marked by pulsating beats and catchy melodies, helped to establish disco as a powerful force in both the music industry and social movements.
Divine: In the context of music, 'divine' refers to a quality that transcends ordinary experience, often associated with spiritual, heavenly, or extraordinary characteristics. This term can describe both the thematic elements in songs and the performances of artists who evoke strong emotional or spiritual responses through their music, especially in relation to marginalized voices.
Dusty Springfield's The Look of Love: The Look of Love is a classic song performed by Dusty Springfield, released in 1967, which showcases her distinctive, soulful voice and emotionally charged delivery. The song became an emblematic representation of the 1960s pop sound, often linked to themes of longing and romantic desire, while also reflecting the emerging visibility of queer voices in popular music, as Springfield herself is recognized as an icon in the LGBTQ+ community.
Elton John: Elton John is a British singer, songwriter, and pianist known for his flamboyant stage presence and a remarkable career that spans over five decades. His music has played a pivotal role in the emergence of queer voices in popular music, breaking barriers for LGBTQ+ artists and providing representation during times of social upheaval. Through his advocacy work and powerful ballads, he has become an icon in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights, inspiring many contemporary artists to use their platforms for social change.
Frankie Knuckles: Frankie Knuckles was an influential American DJ, record producer, and remixer known as the 'Godfather of House Music.' His contributions to the genre played a significant role in shaping the sound of house music, especially in the late 1970s and 1980s, while also providing a platform for queer voices in popular music and culture.
Freddie Mercury: Freddie Mercury was a British singer, songwriter, and the lead vocalist of the rock band Queen, known for his flamboyant stage presence and powerful vocal range. His artistry and openness about his sexuality helped pave the way for queer voices in popular music, while his battle with AIDS and subsequent activism brought attention to the epidemic during a critical time in the 1980s.
Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert: The Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert was a benefit concert held on April 20, 1992, at Wembley Stadium in London to honor the late lead singer of Queen, Freddie Mercury, who had passed away from AIDS. This monumental event featured a diverse lineup of artists and served as a powerful statement against the stigma surrounding AIDS while celebrating Mercury's impact on music and culture. It became a pivotal moment in raising awareness about AIDS and showcasing the strength of queer voices within the music industry.
Gay liberation movement: The gay liberation movement is a social and political movement that emerged in the late 1960s, advocating for the rights and acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals and seeking to challenge societal norms around sexuality and gender identity. It was marked by a shift from a focus on legal rights to a broader cultural transformation, emphasizing visibility and self-acceptance, which led to the emergence of queer voices in popular music as a powerful form of expression and resistance.
George Michael: George Michael was a British singer, songwriter, and record producer who gained fame in the 1980s and 1990s as part of the duo Wham! and as a solo artist. His music often explored themes of love, identity, and sexuality, making him an influential figure in the emergence of queer voices in popular music while also contributing to AIDS activism and the representation of LGBTQ+ artists in the mainstream.
Gladys Bentley: Gladys Bentley was a prominent African American singer, pianist, and drag performer during the Harlem Renaissance, known for her deep, powerful voice and bold stage presence. She became an influential figure by challenging societal norms around gender and sexuality through her performances in the 1920s and 1930s, particularly at venues like the Clam House in Harlem. Bentley's work not only contributed to the emergence of queer voices in popular music but also represented a significant break from traditional gender roles in entertainment.
Indigo Girls: Indigo Girls is an American folk rock duo formed in 1985, consisting of musicians Amy Ray and Emily Saliers. Known for their harmonizing vocals and socially conscious lyrics, they have been significant figures in popular music, particularly in amplifying queer voices and addressing social issues such as LGBTQ+ rights, feminism, and environmentalism.
Jobriath: Jobriath was an American singer-songwriter and one of the first openly gay pop stars, known for his flamboyant style and theatrical performances in the early 1970s. He emerged during a time when queer voices were largely absent from mainstream music, making significant contributions to the visibility and representation of LGBTQ+ artists in popular culture.
K.d. lang: k.d. lang is a Canadian singer-songwriter known for her distinctive contralto voice and androgynous image. She gained prominence in the late 1980s and 1990s, becoming a prominent figure in both the country and pop music scenes while openly identifying as a member of the LGBTQ+ community. Her work has not only celebrated queer identity but also served as a powerful form of social protest, advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and acceptance through her music.
Lou Reed's 'Walk on the Wild Side': 'Walk on the Wild Side' is a song by Lou Reed, released in 1972 as part of his album 'Transformer'. The track is known for its exploration of themes related to gender identity, sexuality, and the experiences of marginalized individuals in urban life. By featuring stories of characters who embody queer identities and lifestyles, the song serves as an important cultural touchstone that amplifies queer voices in popular music during a time of social upheaval and change.
Macklemore & Ryan Lewis' Same Love: Macklemore & Ryan Lewis' 'Same Love' is a hip-hop song that champions LGBTQ+ rights and promotes acceptance of same-sex relationships. Released in 2012, the song's heartfelt lyrics and powerful message contributed to the broader dialogue surrounding marriage equality and representation in popular music, marking a significant moment for queer voices in the mainstream music industry.
Madonna's 'Justify My Love': 'Justify My Love' is a provocative song by Madonna, released in 1990, that blends elements of pop, rock, and dance music with explicit themes of sexuality and desire. The song's lyrics and its accompanying music video challenge traditional norms surrounding sexuality and gender roles, making it a landmark moment in the emergence of queer voices in popular music and a powerful anthem for LGBTQ+ expression and identity.
Melissa Etheridge: Melissa Etheridge is an American singer-songwriter and activist known for her powerful rock music and poignant lyrics, often addressing themes of love, identity, and social justice. She emerged as a prominent queer voice in popular music during the 1990s, using her platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and awareness, making significant contributions to both the music industry and the queer community.
Michigan Womyn's Music Festival: The Michigan Womyn's Music Festival was an annual music festival held from 1976 to 2015, created to celebrate the music and culture of women, particularly focusing on lesbian artists and the feminist movement. This festival became a vital space for queer voices and activism, fostering a sense of community among women while challenging societal norms around gender and sexuality through its performances and workshops.
Olivia Records: Olivia Records was a pioneering independent record label established in the 1970s, primarily known for promoting and distributing music by LGBTQ+ artists. This label played a significant role in amplifying queer voices in the music industry, providing a platform for artists who might not have found success in the mainstream market. Through its commitment to representing diverse sexual and gender identities, Olivia Records contributed to the visibility and acceptance of LGBTQ+ culture during a time when such expressions were often marginalized.
Punk movement: The punk movement emerged in the 1970s as a rebellious counterculture and music genre that rejected mainstream values and norms. Characterized by its raw sound, DIY ethic, and often politically charged lyrics, punk became a voice for youth disillusionment, social protest, and marginalized communities. It also provided a platform for the emergence of diverse voices, including those from the LGBTQ+ community, influencing the broader landscape of popular music and activism.
Queer control records: Queer control records refer to the practices and systems used by music industry gatekeepers to manage and often suppress the visibility and representation of queer artists and their music. This concept encompasses how these mechanisms can influence which voices are heard in popular music, often privileging heteronormative perspectives while marginalizing LGBTQ+ expressions. The term highlights the tension between mainstream commercial interests and the authentic representation of queer identities in music.
Queercore: Queercore is a cultural movement that emerged in the 1980s as a response to the marginalization of LGBTQ+ voices within mainstream culture. It encompasses music, art, and literature that challenges heteronormativity and embraces queer identity, often combining punk aesthetics with themes of sexual and gender liberation. By creating their own spaces and narratives, queercore artists aim to subvert traditional norms and express their unique experiences.
Rebel rebel: 'Rebel Rebel' is a song by David Bowie, released in 1974, that serves as a powerful anthem of individuality and self-expression. This track stands out for its themes of defiance against societal norms, particularly within the context of gender and sexuality, making it a seminal piece in the emergence of queer voices in popular music. The song's infectious hook and bold lyrics challenge traditional ideas of masculinity and femininity, inspiring generations to embrace their true selves regardless of societal expectations.
Red hot + blue: Red Hot + Blue is a 1990 album that served as a landmark in the intersection of music and queer culture, featuring various artists performing covers of songs by the legendary singer-songwriter Cole Porter. This project not only celebrated Porter's contributions to music but also highlighted LGBTQ+ themes and voices, making it an important cultural artifact in the emergence of queer voices in popular music.
Riot grrrl movement: The riot grrrl movement was a feminist punk rock subculture that emerged in the early 1990s, primarily in the United States, characterized by its emphasis on female empowerment, anti-establishment sentiments, and DIY ethics. This movement utilized music and zines to address issues such as sexism, sexual assault, and gender inequality, making significant contributions to feminist discourse and inspiring a generation of young women to express themselves boldly and challenge societal norms.
RuPaul: RuPaul is an American drag queen, singer, and television personality who gained international fame for popularizing drag culture through mainstream media. Known for his extravagant performances and charisma, RuPaul has been pivotal in bringing queer voices into popular music and television, particularly through the hit reality competition show 'RuPaul's Drag Race', which showcases the talents of drag performers and celebrates LGBTQ+ identities.
Sam Smith: Sam Smith is a British singer-songwriter known for their soulful voice and emotional ballads, who gained widespread fame in the 2010s. As an openly non-binary artist, Smith has emerged as a prominent figure within the music industry, representing queer voices and advocating for LGBTQ+ rights through their music and public persona.
Silence = death: The phrase 'silence = death' emerged as a powerful slogan during the AIDS crisis, emphasizing the urgent need for visibility, communication, and action regarding the LGBTQ+ community's struggles. This concept stresses that inaction and silence regarding issues of oppression, discrimination, and health crises can lead to devastating consequences, including loss of life. It has since transcended its original context to represent broader social justice movements advocating for marginalized voices to be heard.
Stonewall Riots: The Stonewall Riots were a series of spontaneous demonstrations by members of the LGBTQ+ community that took place in June 1969 at the Stonewall Inn in New York City. These riots are widely considered to be a pivotal moment in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights, marking the beginning of the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement. The events at Stonewall galvanized queer voices, leading to increased visibility and activism within popular music and culture, and inspiring contemporary artists to use their platform for advocacy.
Sylvester: Sylvester, often recognized as a pioneering figure in the realm of queer voices in popular music, was an American singer-songwriter and performer known for his flamboyant style and powerful voice. He emerged in the 1970s disco era, using his platform to challenge norms surrounding gender identity and sexuality while influencing countless artists who followed. His music not only celebrated queer culture but also provided a voice for marginalized communities, making him a significant icon in both music and social activism.
Wendy Carlos: Wendy Carlos is a pioneering composer and electronic musician best known for her groundbreaking work in synthesizer music, particularly in the late 20th century. She is widely recognized for her innovative use of the Moog synthesizer and for bringing electronic music into mainstream culture, notably through her album 'Switched-On Bach', which showcased classical music reinterpreted with synthesizers. Carlos's contributions have significantly shaped the landscape of electronic music and have opened doors for queer voices in the industry.
YMCA: The YMCA, or Young Men's Christian Association, is a worldwide organization founded in 1844 to promote healthy living, youth development, and social responsibility. In the context of popular music, the term 'YMCA' is famously associated with the Village People’s song from 1978, which celebrates a place where young men can find community, acceptance, and freedom, resonating particularly with LGBTQ+ audiences and becoming an anthem for gay culture.
You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real): 'You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)' is a disco song by Sylvester released in 1978, recognized for its empowering lyrics and energetic rhythm. This track became an anthem for the LGBTQ+ community, celebrating individuality and the liberation of self-expression. Its impact reflects the growing visibility of queer voices in popular music during the late 20th century, where artists began to openly embrace their identities and challenge societal norms through their music.