You know what is better than Christmas? Pride month. And what is pride month without music that sparks unadulterated queer joy? Consequently, for the first week of pride, we (Harry and I) have made a list of artists we think you should be listening to and supporting this month of pride and every other month.
On our list are some amazing artists from various countries creating music that celebrates queerness unapologetically in different forms.
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Chimano: First on our list is Kenyan singer Chimano, who is also a member of the biggest band in Kenya – Sauti Soul. His first solo project Heavy Is the Crown speaks of the pride that comes with vulnerability, expressing self, embracing individual truth and identity without waiting for validation from others.
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Desire Marea: This multidisciplinary artist is part of South African duo FAKA. Their debut album Desire explores themes of spirituality, healing and joy. I found their soft tunes powerful enough to calm the mind, body and soul.
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Sir Boyo: I first discovered this Nigerian artist in 2021 after he released a video to one of his singles I Know You Like It which explores themes of self-celebration and acceptance. His songs, though catchy and upbeat, discuss the importance of self expression, self love and identity. Sir Boyo has revealed on twitter his debut EP Boy Meets World Will be out this summer and we can’t wait.
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Bronze Avery: Bronze Avery once said “boys like you remind me there’s a life worth living and we should just be kissing.” And then followed it with “boys like me falling in love with every word you say.” Tell me this doesn’t make your queer heart do a backflip? You should definitely listen to his EP Split if you want that queer romance vibe.
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Mx Blouse: Afropunk artist and DJ Mx Blouse is one of the South African artists challenging imposed societal norms on gender and sexuality through music. Mx Blouse who makes music infused with hints of R&B, hip-hop, Kwaito, and house is changing the definition of what a rapper should look like and sound like. Their song We Can Fall In Love is a favourite because it reminds me of easy and lazy mornings wrapped in the arms of a lover.
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TY McKinnie: In his song Chill, TY McKinnie sings about waiting for his lover to get back home so they can chill and spend some time together. This is honestly what I wish for all my queer folks this month and every other day! Breakfast in bed, deep conversations about the state of the world and sweet, sweet love making that makes you lose track of time. If TY Mckinnie is manifesting it, we are claiming it.
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Jessica Betts: No explanation needed. A black masc lesbian making soul music? Sign me up. In February 2022 Jessica Betts and wife Niecy Nash became the first queer couple to be featured on the cover of Essence Magazine. The video to her Song Catch Me which features her wife reminds us of the beauty of queer love.
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Amaria BB: Do I need to say more? Jamaican artist Amaria BB has all of us losing our cool to her sultry and sensual sound. When Slow Motion comes on at a party or club, you know it is time to pull your lover close for a slow whine.
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Rob Milton: Indie soul singer Rob Milton makes sweet music that explores themes of love and positivity. His album Sons of the James had me slow dancing in the dark on a Thursday night. It was that moving.
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Brenda Fassie: Ending the list with South African icon Brenda Fassie. Brenda was an out and proud lesbian even before members of the LGBT community were granted equal protection under South Africa’s law. Brenda’s I Can’t Stop Loving You reminds me to be loud, vocal and unapologetic about who I am.
