Eleven LGBTQ+ Musicians Reflect on the Albums That Defined Them

Pride celebrations often center around iconic anthems. Last year, Kylie Minogue’s “Padam Padam” reigned supreme; this year, Charli XCX’s “Brat” holds court. Music, regardless of genre, fuels the creativity within the LGBTQ+ community. Crucially, it assists LGBTQ+ individuals in self-understanding and self-acceptance. Pride signifies liberation and celebration; music acts as a potent catalyst for self-discovery.

This year’s Pride celebration features reflections from several celebrated musicians, including Kehlani, Big Freedia, and Tinashe, sharing the albums that profoundly impacted their lives and the memories tied to these musical experiences.

Michaela Jae Rodriguez: The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill (1998)

Lauryn Hill’s narrative deeply resonated with Michaela. The album played constantly at home. From first grade in Jackson, New Jersey, Michaela and her cousin were captivated by “Doo Wop (That Thing).” Their prior obsession with Sister Act 2, featuring Hill, further amplified their connection.

The album’s impact stemmed from Hill’s honest portrayal of personal experiences: love, motherhood, and societal observations. It provided insights into Michaela’s identity as a queer person of color and how the world might perceive her. The music itself was remarkably enjoyable. Singing “Everything Is Everything” at the top of her lungs held significant power for Michaela. Music, a lifelong passion, is integral to her Pride celebrations, serving as a potent tool for global upliftment.

Tokischa: Rihanna’s Entire Discography (2005-Present)

Rihanna’s discography has served as a continuous source of inspiration for Tokischa. Each album showcases a distinct artistic phase. Rihanna’s music aided Tokischa in self-discovery, not only as an artist but also as an individual. Her performances evoked powerful emotions and affirmed Tokischa’s artistic identity. Tokischa recalls the excitement of obtaining Rihanna’s music and immersing herself in her lyrics, biography, and live performances, realizing her true connection to Rihanna’s artistry.

Music embodies freedom for Tokischa, enabling uninhibited self-expression. It allows genuine authenticity and connection within her community, facilitating celebration and shared experiences.

Kehlani: Full Moon by Brandy (2002)

Kehlani views music as an integral part of Pride, synonymous with joy and liberation. Brandy’s Full Moon profoundly changed her life. Brandy’s genre-bending evolution in R&B impressed Kehlani. The album’s contemporary and futuristic sound left a lasting impression. Kehlani vividly remembers practicing Brandy’s vocal runs.

Doechii: My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy by Kanye West (2010)

My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy significantly influenced Doechii’s artistic development. This eighth-grade discovery instilled in her a belief in limitless musical potential. The album’s impact remains unforgettable. Music serves as a tool for self-expression and empowerment, bridging diverse backgrounds through shared experiences. For Doechii, music embodies Pride’s essence, celebrating individuality and fostering a sense of belonging and strength.

Tinashe: The Velvet Rope by Janet Jackson (1997)

Tinashe considers The Velvet Rope her all-time favorite album, a model for creating a diverse and sonically rich body of work. The album’s message of freedom greatly impacted her.

Big Freedia: Sylvester’s Music (1977-1988)

Big Freedia’s artistic identity is deeply intertwined with her music. Sylvester’s music was particularly impactful. Sylvester’s unapologetically gay music was transformative. Discovering Sylvester’s music in a gay club during her teenage years opened up a new world for her. The songs “You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)” and “Dance (Disco Heat)” inspired her career aspirations.

Tayla Parx: I’m Not Your Man by Marika Hackman (2017)

Tayla Parx cites Marika Hackman’s I’m Not Your Man, particularly “Boyfriend,” as artistically and personally influential. The song’s lyrics and video resonated deeply with her experiences. The album’s diverse influences captivated her. Music provides comfort, support, and understanding, a crucial aspect for queer individuals.

Zolita: The Fame Monster by Lady Gaga (2009)

Music by LGBTQ+ artists played a pivotal role in Zolita’s self-acceptance and pride. Lady Gaga’s The Fame Monster heavily influenced her career. Gaga’s open queerness and acceptance significantly impacted Zolita, fostering a sense of community. A carpool ride home from middle school, hearing “Just Dance,” marked a significant moment. Attending the Chromatica Ball with fellow Gaga fans solidified these feelings.

Ani DiFranco: Little Plastic Castle (1998)

Ani DiFranco’s Little Plastic Castle had a profound impact on Ani, though she was familiar with her earlier work. The album’s diverse themes, ranging from queer love to political commentary and self-reliance, strongly resonated with her. A train ride home from school, listening to the album on her Discman, stands out as a vivid memory. A shared experience of defiantly chanting “Fuel” with fellow queer friends on the train remains memorable. Music provides a common ground and shared love for LGBTQ+ individuals.

Dua Saleh: The Emancipation of Mimi by Mariah Carey (2005)

Dua Saleh considers Mariah Carey’s The Emancipation of Mimi to be highly influential. The album’s impact resonates with Dua’s own identity and the shared love for Carey within the LGBTQ+ community. The album’s precision, storytelling, and artistic genius captivated Dua. A car ride with her mother, listening to the album, is a cherished memory. Many LGBTQ+ artists draw inspiration from their childhoods, creating music from a place of authenticity and curiosity. The presence of music at Pride parades underscores its significance.

Dreamer Isioma: Princess Forever (2023)

Dreamer Isioma highlights their latest album, Princess Forever, as particularly meaningful. Recorded during a transition phase, it involved performing in a pink space suit around the world. The album’s release involved a shroom-fueled album release party that was a powerful moment of community and affirmation. Pride and music share a common thread of freedom and self-expression.