A New Era of Lesbian and Sapphic Artists: From Struggles to Mainstream Success
Growing up knowing I was attracted to women from a young age, there weren't many mainstream pop acts I could listen to and truly relate to. As a certified pop girly in the mid-2000s, my playlist was filled with the usual suspects like the Jonas Brothers, Miley Cyrus, and all the Disney Channel stars. However, it wasn't until I hit my late teens/early 20s that sapphic artists like Hayley Kiyoko and girl in red began to make a real impact in mainstream media.
By the time I was 21, I had been comfortable with labeling myself as a lesbian and had been eager to search for more artists that related to me and my background. Of course, at the time, Hayley Kiyoko was the biggest in pop music, being labeled as “Lesbian Jesus” and being one of the first few of our generation to have songs about women hit the mainstream. While there were plenty of lesbian artists that came before, not many of them were reaching the success that Hayley was at the time.
Now at 26, there are more lesbian and sapphic artists out and proud than I can count on one hand. The first that comes to mind is rising sensation Chappell Roan. Her unapologetically queer lyrics and infectious pop beats have made her a standout in the music scene. Tracks like "Pink Pony Club" and "Naked in Manhattan" aren't just bops—they're anthems for the LGBTQ+ community, celebrating love and identity in a way that feels both personal and universal.
Chappell Roan's rise to fame signifies a broader shift in the music industry, where queer artists are not just accepted but celebrated. Her visibility and success provide representation that many young queer people, including myself, have longed for. Seeing someone like Chappell proudly owning her identity and gaining mainstream recognition is incredibly validating.
Then there's The Aces, an all-female band with three out of four members identifying as queer. Their latest album, “I’ve Loved You For So Long,” features some of the catchiest and queerest songs you'll hear. Songs like "Girls Make Me Wanna Die" and "Suburban Blues" are unapologetically sapphic, and their pop-rock sound makes them a must-listen.
One of the band members, Cristal Ramirez, has spoken about the importance of representation and visibility in their music. The Aces' success is a testament to the power of authenticity and the growing acceptance of queer narratives in the music industry. Their music isn't just about love and relationships; it's about creating a space where queer identities are seen, heard, and celebrated.
Another artist making waves is Reneé Rapp, who recently came out as a lesbian. Her debut album, "Snow Angel," and her earlier EP, "Everything to Everyone," have solidified her as a rising star. Songs like "In the Kitchen" and "Too Well" showcase her incredible vocal talent and her ability to tell deeply personal stories. Reneé's openness about her journey and her commitment to authenticity make her an inspiring figure for many young queer people.
Billie Eilish, who recently came out as bisexual, has been fearlessly weaving her identity into her music with tracks like "Lunch" and "Guess" (featuring Charli XCX). In "Lunch," she captures the intensity of queer desire with lines like "I could eat that girl for lunch," portraying attraction with unapologetic honesty. Meanwhile, "Guess" showcases playful flirtation and queer chemistry as Billie and Charli trade electric verses. These songs not only celebrate LGBTQ+ love but also push for greater representation and inclusivity in mainstream pop, reflecting Billie’s bold embrace of her identity.
Reflecting on these artists' journeys, it's clear that we've come a long way. From the trailblazers of the past, like Melissa Etheridge and k.d. lang, to today's stars, the landscape of the music industry is becoming more inclusive and representative of diverse identities. The impact of these artists extends beyond their music; they are creating a cultural shift that encourages acceptance and celebrates diversity.
The influence of lesbian and sapphic artists in the industry is not just about representation—it's about normalization. It's about creating a world where young queer people can turn on the radio or open Spotify and hear songs that reflect their experiences and emotions. It's about making sure that no one feels alone or invisible because of who they love.
As someone who grew up yearning for this kind of representation, seeing the success of artists like Chappell Roan, The Aces, and Reneé Rapp is incredibly empowering. They are not just making great music; they are breaking down barriers and paving the way for future generations of queer artists. Their presence in the mainstream is a testament to the progress we've made and a reminder of the importance of visibility and authenticity.
In a world where we still face challenges and discrimination, these artists give us hope and inspiration. They remind us that our stories matter, our love is valid, and our voices deserve to be heard. So here's to the artists who paved the way, the ones who are making waves today, and the future stars who will continue to shape the music industry. Thank you for showing us that being true to ourselves is not just powerful—it's revolutionary.
