Country music, traditionally draped in the hues of the American heartland, is undergoing a vibrant transformation. As the sound of guitars mingles with stories of love, heartbreak and resilience, a new narrative is emerging, in which LGBTQIA+ voices resonate with powerful clarity and creativity. From the revolutionary echoes of Lavender Country in the 1970s to the viral successes of Lil Nas X, queer artists are redefining what it means to be part of this historic genre. Discover how these artists shaped a more inclusive community in the world of country music.
The historical legacy of LGBTQIA+ pioneers in country music
Lavender Country: the first known gay country band
The echoes of Lavender Country, the trailblazing band, still resonate deeply in the heart of country music. Formed in 1972, this group proudly declared their queer identities, making them the first openly gay country band. Their bold move crafted a significant chapter in country music history.Their track “Cryin’ These Cocksucking Tears”, which blends folk influences with homosexual lyrics, openly challenged the status quo.
The new generation of country music artists
Moving from the past to the present, artists like Orville Peck and Lil Nas X have taken up the torch, drawing inspiration from Lavender Country.
- Orville Peck, with his masked persona, blends the mystery of traditional country music with a modern queer narrative. His deep, resonant voice and hauntingly beautiful melodies create a bridge between the old and the new.
- Brandi Carlile is one of the finest Americana and country musicians of all time. Throughout her career, the lesbian singer has released seven studio albums and received eighteen Grammy Award nominations. She has also written and produced songs for country music icon Tanya Tucker, performed solo and collaborated with the supergroup The Highwomen.
- In 2019, Lil Nas X‘s “Old Town Road” was released. Halfway between hip hop and country, the track provoked heated debate within the music industry. Initially featured on the Billboard General, Hip Hop and Hot Country 100 charts, it was then ejected from the country version of the American chart, before being reversed when Billy Ray Cyrus took charge of the remix.
The contributions of LGBTQIA+ artists in country music
Influential songs and albums
The landscape of country music has been profoundly shaped by iconic tracks from LGBTQIA+ artists.
- Kacey Musgraves didn’t initially aim to be a “gay icon.” She was inspired by friendships in Nashville, stating, “It doesn’t matter what walk of life you’re from, you experience love and emotions just like everyone else”. Even if her inclusive songs like “Follow Your Arrow” faced backlash but significantly impacted listeners.
- Katie Pruitt was included in Rolling Stone‘s 2018 list of “10 New Country Artists You Need to Know”. In 2020, her album “Expectations” deals with the relationship between homosexuality and religion, and her song “Loving You” is a self-acceptance anthem about standing by the people you love, no matter what.
Queer country today: identity, community, and influence
Evolution of queer themes in country music
Today, country music isn’t just about trucks and beer. It’s also the expression of a homosexual identity. Over the years, queer themes have woven through the lyrics and stories of this evolving genre.
Chely Wright began her career in country music by keeping her private life a secret. As her fame grew, she made the decision to come out in 2010 with “Lifted Off the Ground”. The record is one of the greatest country albums of the 2010s, and explores her coming-out process in depth.
Psychological impact and personal narratives
According to research from the LGBTQ+ Musicians Insight Report, more than half of trans respondents said they have encountered prejudice because of their gender identification.
The psychological trauma in the music of LGBTQIA+ country artists like Orville Peck and Patrick Haggerty of Lavender Country is profoundly expressed through their lyrics and their own stories. Orville Peck’s album “Pony” delves into themes of identity and longing with “haunting, erotic lyrics”, reflecting the personal and societal struggles faced by queer individuals in a traditionally conservative genre. Meanwhile, Patrick Haggerty’s Lavender Country, recognized as the first queer country album, boldly addresses the injustices and trauma within the gay community with songs like “Come Out Singing.”
These artists use their music as a means of expressing the challenges of the LGBTQIA+ community, and attempt to change the norms of the country’s world.
Country music today is a vibrant stage for LGBTQIA+ voices to shape, challenge and enrich the genre. Artists like Orville Peck, Lil Nas X and Brandi Carlile offer hope and a sense of belonging to many who have felt invisible and unheard. Discover playlists that celebrate queer artists and their profound impact on country music. Live their stories, feel their struggles and celebrate their triumphs. Join us on Deezer to celebrate and expand this colorful heritage.
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