Whether standing firm against adversity, fighting for rights and medical research, or providing a platform for those whose voices were hitherto unheard, these pioneering LGBTQ+ musicians have added their own splash of colour to the walls of popular music’s everlasting corridors.
Listen to the 50 greatest Pride songs here, and check out our 30 most pioneering LGBTQ+ musicians, below.
30: Ezra Furman (1986-)
Beginning her career with The Harpoons, Ezra Furman went on to release five studio albums, including 2018’s impressive Transangelic Exodus, establishing herself as one of the most notable LGBTQ+ musicians of her generation. Drawing likenesses to the noisiness of Ramones and New York Dolls, Furman’s trademark is a consistent fusion of abrasive sections with delicately arranged, authentic alt-pop. Not only is the Chicagoan more than comfortable constructing original and interesting material through concept albums, but she published a book on Lou Reed’s Transformer album as part of the 33⅓ series, as well as supplied the soundtrack for progressive UK comedy-drama Sex Education.
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