25 queer artists who revolutionized music & challenged norms - Queerty

"Throughout history, there have been artists that refuse to reduce themselves to monolithic stereotypes and conform to discriminatory musical standards and expectations. Instead, individuals like Ma Rainey, often called the "Mother of the Blues," overtly explored themes of identity and lesbian self-affirmation. Angela Y. Davis called Rainey's " Prove It on Me," a precursor to the lesbian cultural movement of the 1970s."

"Generations of LGBTQ+ artists have followed suit, challenging the industry to create more variable genres with avant-garde style, elliptical lyrics, and formative vision. Some of these artists-Wendy Carlos, MikeQ, David Bowie, and Patrick Haggerty-have made music history all while contributing to cultural movements, LGBTQ+ rights, and freedom of self-expression that have extended beyond the stage. To acknowledge and recognize these achievements, Stacker examined books, interviews, and primary news sources and compiled a list of 25 times LGBTQ+ artists made music history."

Artists across history have refused reduction to monolithic stereotypes and to conform to discriminatory musical standards and expectations. Ma Rainey, often called the "Mother of the Blues," overtly explored themes of identity and lesbian self-affirmation. Angela Y. Davis called Rainey's "Prove It on Me" a precursor to the lesbian cultural movement of the 1970s. Generations of LGBTQ+ artists challenged the industry to create more variable genres with avant-garde style, elliptical lyrics, and formative vision. Wendy Carlos, MikeQ, David Bowie, and Patrick Haggerty made music history while contributing to cultural movements, LGBTQ+ rights, and freedom of self-expression beyond the stage. Notable moments include Freddie Mercury's Live Aid vocal highlight and Sylvester's disco classics.

Read at Queerty