For too long, country music has been painted with a pretty narrow brush – one dipped in themes of pickup trucks, small towns, and heartbreak (often caused by said trucks). But listen a little closer, and you'll hear a whole other story being told. LGBTQ+ artists have always been there, weaving their experiences and identities into the tapestry of Americana and Country.
One of the first out acts, Lavender Country, blazed a trail back in the 70s with their self-titled album, considered the first ever with a gay theme in country music.expand_more Though facing industry pushback, they paved the way for future generations.expand_more
Today, the scene is thriving with a vibrant array of LGBTQ+ artists. We have the Grammy-winning powerhouse Brandi Carlile, belting out anthems of love and acceptance. Orville Peck, with his rhinestone-dusted persona, brings a touch of glam and mystery to the genre. Artists like Adeem the Arist and Katie Pruitt sing relatable stories of love, heartbreak and family.
The impact goes beyond just the music. These artists are changing the conversation, challenging stereotypes, and showing young LGBTQ+ listeners that they belong in Americana music. It's about seeing yourself reflected in the songs, feeling the honesty in their lyrics, and knowing that your story deserves a place on the radio.
Americana and Country music are constantly evolving. These LGBTQ+ artists aren't just fitting in, they're pushing boundaries and expanding the definition of what country music can be. So next time you hear a twangy guitar or a soulful voice, listen closely – you might just hear the future of country music, and it might be a little bit queer.
LGBTQ+ Americana Artists
An extensive if incomplete and possibility inaccurate list.
- Aaron Lee Tasjan
- Adeem the Artist
- Allison Russell
- Ally Free
- Amanda Fields
- Amythyst Kiah
- Ana Egge
- Austin Lucas
- Autumn Nicholas
- Bonnie Whitmore
- Brandy Clark
- Brandi Carlile
- Chasity Brown
- Chris Housman
- Cidny Bullens
- Creekbed Carter Hogan
- Crys Matthews
- Della Mae
- Esther Rose
- Gina Venier
- Heather Mae
- Hurray for the Riff Raff
- Ira Wolf
- ISMAY
- Jaimee Harris
- Jamie Wyatt
- Jake Blount
- Jett Holden
- Jessye DeSilva
- Jobi Riccio
- Joy Clark
- Joy Oladokun
- Julie Nolen
- Julian Talamantez Brolaski
- Kacey Musgraves
- Kara Jackson
- Katie Pruitt
- Lawrence Rothman
- Lilli Lewis
- Lila Blue
- Liv Greene
- Lizzie No
- Maddy Diaz
- Mariya Stokes
- Mary Gauthier
- Megan McCormick
- Melissa Carper
- Mercy Bell
- Michelle Malone
- Mya Byrne
- Nessa Grasing
- Paisley Fields
- Rett Madison
- Ruthie Foster
- Sam Williams
- Sarah King
- Sarah Shook
- S.G. Goodman
- Shawna Virago
- Sunny War
- Waylon Payne
- Willi Carisle
- Wiley Gaby