What is Gaypop? Many interpretations of this niche genre have recently become viral. In my view, it is about queer storytelling within songs that have been deeply embraced by the queer community. Here, I will delve into artists that I feel have defined the genre!
Adam Lambert
One of the most underrated artists of this genre, Adam Lambert’s discography is filled with queer storytelling. His music and career have undeniably been intertwined with queer storytelling and representation. Lambert himself is an openly gay artist, and he has been vocal about his experiences and identity, both in his personal life and through his music.
From the beginning of his career, Lambert has challenged norms and stereotypes within the music industry. He’s embraced his sexuality and incorporated it into his artistry, offering a perspective that resonates deeply with LGBTQ+ audiences. His music often explores themes of love, identity, and self-expression, with lyrics that speak to the experiences of the queer community.
In songs like “For Your Entertainment” and “If I Had You,” Lambert celebrates freedom of expression and individuality, encouraging listeners to be true to themselves. He doesn’t shy away from addressing issues such as love, desire, and acceptance, presenting them authentically. Through his music, performances, and public persona, Adam Lambert has become a prominent figure in queer storytelling within the music industry, inspiring countless individuals to embrace their identities and live authentically.
Chappell Roan
One of the rising queer artists this year, Chappell Roan has introduced many to queer storytelling in her songs with her most recent release, “Good Luck, Babe!” and debut album, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, which has a refreshing take in queer storytelling.
Many of her songs chronicle her transition from her conservative hometown in Missouri to the more accepting atmosphere of Santa Monica, California, known for its vibrant queer community. She candidly explores her struggles to establish herself in the California music scene, facing setbacks and grappling with feelings of inadequacy.
Roan’s songs often serve as narratives of her personal journey, encompassing themes of self-discovery, sexuality, and her place in the music industry. Unafraid to be provocative, her lyrics frequently delve into themes of queer love and sexuality. In tracks like “Red Wine Supernova,” she lyrically explores intimate encounters, with lines such as, “She showed me things I didn’t know, She did it right there out on the deck, Put her canine teeth in the side of my neck.”
Her music serves as a platform for the representation of queer female artists, reflecting her own experiences as a queer female artist navigating the challenges of self-discovery within restrictive environments, particularly as a Midwestern girl.
Halsey
Halsey, an openly bisexual artist, has infused elements of queer storytelling into her music, contributing to LGBTQ+ representation within the industry. Throughout her career, she has fearlessly explored themes of identity, love, and sexuality, often drawing from her own experiences.
In songs like “Strangers” featuring Lauren Jauregui, Halsey sings about a same-sex relationship, offering a refreshing perspective on queer love in mainstream pop music. The lyrics vividly portray the complexities of love and desire between two women, challenging societal norms and celebrating queer relationships.
Additionally, Halsey’s music videos often feature diverse representations of gender and sexuality, further amplifying queer narratives. In tracks like “Colors” and “Bad at Love,” she embraces fluidity and authenticity, blurring the lines between traditional gender roles and expressing her own truth. Her artistry is a beacon of representation and validation, inspiring listeners to embrace their identities and love freely.
Rina Sawayama
Rina Sawayama, a Japanese-British singer-songwriter, has emerged as a powerful voice for LGBTQ+ representation in music. Her work infuses themes of identity, sexuality, and belonging. As a bisexual artist, Sawayama fearlessly explores her experiences and challenges societal norms through her music.
In her album, Hold The Girl, tracks such as “Frankenstein” and “This Hell” delve into themes of queer love and relationships and self-reflection, offering a candid and unapologetic portrayal of herself. These songs navigate the complexities of desire and intimacy, celebrating the diversity of human connection regardless of what others say.
Moreover, Sawayama’s music videos often feature diverse representations of gender and sexuality, reflecting the spectrum of identities within the LGBTQ+ community. Through her visuals and lyrics, she challenges stereotypes and embraces fluidity, encouraging listeners to embrace their authentic selves. Sawayama has become a beacon of representation and empowerment, inspiring listeners to embrace their identities and live authentically.
Lady Gaga
Lady Gaga‘s impact on the queer community through her music is profound and multifaceted. Since her rise to fame in the late 2000s, Gaga has been a staunch advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility, using her platform to champion equality and acceptance.
Many of Lady Gaga’s songs, such as “Born This Way,” “The Edge of Glory,” and “Applause,” have become anthems of empowerment for the LGBTQ+ community. “Born This Way,” in particular, celebrates self-love and acceptance with lyrics that embrace individuality and diversity. The song’s message of embracing one’s identity, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, resonated deeply with audiences worldwide.
Lady Gaga has consistently used her music videos and performances to showcase diverse expressions of gender and sexuality. In videos like “Alejandro” and “Telephone,” she features queer themes and imagery, challenging traditional gender norms and celebrating sexual liberation. Gaga’s unapologetic expression of her own identity, including her support for the LGBTQ+ community, has made her a beloved icon among queer fans.
Beyond her music, Lady Gaga has been actively involved in LGBTQ+ advocacy and philanthropy. She co-founded the Born This Way Foundation, which focuses on youth empowerment and mental health support, specifically emphasizing LGBTQ+ youth. Gaga has also used her platform to advocate against discrimination and promote legislative changes to protect LGBTQ+ rights.
Be sure to check out these amazing artists who invoke the Gaypop genre!
I am a writer and photographer based in Houston, Texas. I am currently attending the University of Houston as a Marketing major, and a PR and MIS minor. I am passionate about my work through the various creative avenues I use such as writing, designing, and photography. In my free time I enjoy delving into rabbit holes and discovering new things!
