Music has been instrumental in standing up against gender discrimination. From song lyrics with powerful messages to music events that highlight the beauty of embracing one’s identity, it has truly helped break down gender stereotypes and misconceptions. You may not realize it, but several artists who we follow and support are using their fame to shed light and awareness on what it means to be part of the LGBTQI community.
The emerging number of LGBTQI musicians provide us with fresh, new music while serving as inspirations to the community they represent. From Jasper Holton and his Intersex Music – Official Site project to sensational YouTube personality Skylar Kergil’s magnetic influence to Shea Diamond’s combined singing and songwriting skills, these artists are showing the world that sex and gender identity represent empowerment and self-expression.
Music is a Universal Language
It is capable of transforming complex emotions and controversial topics into a resounding piece that everyone can understand. Using a person’s gender identity and preference as a means to discriminate or make them feel bad about themselves is a primitive way of living and making sense of the changes around us.
That said, below are seven noteworthy LGBTQI artists that you need to include in your playlist now:
Jasper Holton
Jasper Holton is a visual artist and musician. He is also intersex, and he uses music to convey his personal experiences as a person born and raised with both male and female sex characteristics. His music project, Intersex, takes listeners to a journey of emotions and stories excellently depicted through deep vocals and the harmonic melodies of percussions and string instruments. It spans a combination of genres, such as electronic pop, folk, rock, and classical music. The Intersex Music – Official Site features Holton’s journey and autobiography.
Skylar Kergil
The multitalented and influential Skylar Kergil first graced the musical spotlight in 2009. Aside from being a singer and songwriter, he is also a YouTube personality, public speaker, and an activist for the transgender community. As a transgender person, Kergil uses his platform to spread awareness about the experiences and daily struggles of his people. He has documented his transition from being female to male and has likewise educated his viewers on gender identity.
Shea Diamond
Shea Diamond, singer, and songwriter, also serves as a powerful voice for transgender rights. Her versatility as an artist enables her to traverse through different genres, including R&B, soul, folk, blues, hip-hop, and even rock. Her hauntingly beautiful and emotive song, “I Am Her,” became a personal anthem for people experiencing injustice just for being true to themselves. She has released five singles and one extended play. Her musical influences include Tina Turner and Whitney Houston.
Anohni
Born Antony Hegarty, Anohni made history for the LGBTQI community in 2016. During the 2016 Academy Awards, she became the second openly transgender artist to receive a nomination (Best Original Song). She has made several appearances on TV and film. She has also collaborated with fellow musicians, including Björk, Lou Reed, Anthony, and the Johnsons, and Bernard Butler.
Mykki Blanco
Mykki Blanco identifies as queer. He is a performance artist, rapper, activist, and poet. His self-titled debut album, Mykki, was released on September 16, 2016. His outstanding musical gift fueled the complexity and intensity of all of his songs. Throughout his career, Mykki has shifted through different pronouns, with ‘he/him’ as the one he uses at present.
Shawnee
Shawnee is not just a queer pop singer. She is also a Mohawk Canadian singer whose advocacies include mental health issues, the queer community, and the indigenous youth. She also identifies as Two-Spirit. Some indigenous communities use the term Two-Spirit to refer to people exhibiting fluidity with their sexuality and gender identity. Using the money earned from her music, Shawnee has provided financial aid for the We Matter Campaign, a movement that seeks to address suicide among aboriginal youth.
Juliana Huxtable
The American DJ, performer, artist, model, and photographer Juliana Huxtable is also a renowned icon and it-girl for the trans-community. She is the co-founder of Shock Value, an LGBTQI-friendly nightclub based in New York. A true-blue creative soul, Juliana’s artistic talent spans a multidisciplinary practice and a wide variety of art mediums. She is included in the House of LaDOSHA art collective.
While you are stuck at home during the ongoing community-wide quarantine, time can seem to go more slowly than ever. One of the best ways to break the dull and uneventful spell of staying indoors for weeks is discovering new and good music for you to appreciate.
