Bands with gay lead singers

She’s been an activist and an inspiration ever since.

Meshell Ndegeocello
Blending funk, jazz, and poetry, Meshell’s bisexual identity and refusal to conform have made her a guiding light for queer Black musicians. Her artistry speaks volumes even when she doesn’t.

Joan Jett
Though never officially labeling her sexuality, Joan Jett has long been embraced as a queer icon.

"It helped develop the clarity of my voice and establish who I would be as an adult."

Meanwhile, John felt "very privileged because I'm in a business that kind of accepts gay people," as he told Variety – but there's an emphasis on "kind of." The unfortunate reality is that for many years, being an openly LGBTQ artist in the world of rock often meant placing a target on one's back, or at the very least not being treated with the same level of respect or seriousness as their heterosexual counterparts.

It's not always so simple to reveal your truth, and for many, there's a consistent struggle to be themselves for fear of jeopardizing careers and friendships.

Rufus Wainwright

Known for hits like his cover of Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah" and "Going to a Town," Rufus Wainwright has been openly gay since the start of his career. Her work around reproductive rights, queerness, and identity made her a vital voice in activist music.

Barry Manilow
After coming out publicly later in life, Barry Manilow was met with widespread love and support.

In this piece, we’ll list some of the most influential names in the queer art movement and their impact on our past and present.

Being an Openly Gay Musician

Undoubtedly, the entertainment industry has come a long way in accepting and representing LGBTQ+ individuals. He was not only one of the first openly gay rock musicians to get signed to a big record label, but tragically, he was also one of the first internationally famous musicians to die of AIDS.

He’s paved a path for other queer hip-hop artists.

Kim Petras
One of the first openly trans pop stars to top the Billboard Hot 100, Kim Petras is a shining example of trans excellence in music. Akihiro Miwa

Japanese cabaret performer, singer, actor, drag queen, and social activist Akihiro Miwa began his career as a cabaret performer in the 1950s, quickly gaining notice for his androgynous appearance.

She remains a legend for living freely and singing fearlessly.

Janelle Monáe
Openly pansexual and nonbinary, Janelle Monáe creates futuristic anthems of freedom and self-love. “Supermodel (You Better Work)” remains a cornerstone anthem.

Sam Smith
Openly nonbinary and genderqueer, Sam Smith uses their platform to discuss identity, heartbreak, and empowerment.

Her leather-clad defiance and trailblazing presence challenged rock’s boys’ club.

Kate Pierson
As a member of The B-52s, Kate Pierson’s quirky style and bisexual identity helped define the band’s queer-positive image. His love songs, filled with longing and elegance, have resonated deeply with queer fans.

Ma Rainey
The “Mother of the Blues” sang boldly about her love for women in the 1920s.

Pete Burns lived glamorously and unapologetically, paving the way for gender-nonconforming artists.

Prince
Though never openly LGBTQIA+, Prince’s gender-bending style and sexual openness inspired a generation of queer fans and artists. These artists busted down the doors, lit the stage on fire and invited the rest of us to dance in the spotlight with them.

Adam Lambert
From his American Idol breakthrough to touring with Queen, Adam Lambert has become a proud icon in the LGBTQIA+ community.

His music captures the nuances of queer love and self-discovery.

Tyler, the Creator
Tyler’s evolution from controversy to queer ally and possibly bi-identifying artist has challenged hip-hop’s norms.

It required immense courage and determination, especially when the music industry was predominantly hetero-normative. 

Sexuality was not only a taboo topic for public discussion but could also result in alienation from fans and even cause damage to one's career. Since then, he has become a prominent figure in the music industry, known for his powerful vocals and dynamic performances. 

Lambert's career has included solo albums, collaborations with Queen, and a successful residency in Las Vegas.

He remains an outspoken advocate for LGBTQIA+ visibility in music and beyond.

Tracy Chapman
Though intensely private, Tracy Chapman’s career has long championed social justice. Halford came out as gay in a 1998 interview with MTV News, making him one of the first well-known heavy metal musicians to identify as queer openly.

Freddie Mercury, now posthumously lauded as a queer icon, never discussed his sexuality. Her work blends gospel, soul, and activism with powerful intention.

Sinead O’Connor
Known for her boldness and honesty, Sinead O’Connor openly supported LGBTQIA+ causes throughout her life.