17 Best Gay Male Rappers

While some homophobia still exists in the rap genre, things are fast changing. There are now a number of openly gay rappers around, many of which gain support both in the LGBTQ+ community and with straight people. Here are the best gay male rappers ever.

1. Lil Nas X

Lil Nas X is more than just an openly gay rapper; he's a revolution in the hip-hop industry. Bursting onto the scene with hit songs like “Old Town Road” and “Industry Baby,” his talents have been recognized at home and abroad, earning him multiple Grammy nominations and wins.

No one can forget his Grammy Awards victory, winning Best Music Video and Best Pop Duo/Group awards.

Breaking barriers doesn't stop there for Lil Nas X. His decision to come out as gay during Pride Month in June 2019 was a powerful statement of visibility for LGBTQ+ representation, especially so in an industry that often lacks gay role models.

2. Solomon Ray

Solomon Ray is an emerging force in the music world, captivating audiences with his dynamic style and authentic storytelling. Breaking barriers as an openly gay rapper, Ray's career is marked by his unapologetic self-expression. His music not only resonates with listeners across genres but also serves as a beacon of representation for the community he proudly belongs to.

Ray's contributions extend beyond his captivating beats, as he fearlessly advocates for inclusivity and acceptance, inspiring others to embrace their true selves. His journey reflects the evolving landscape of artists who are reshaping the industry, amplifying the voices of the often underrepresented and underserved.

3. Mista Strange

Mista Strange is a trailblazer in the rap industry, known for being the first gay rapper to be featured on prominent platforms such as GRM Daily and BBC 1Xtra. He has significantly contributed to LGBTQ+ representation in music, using his platform to challenge toxic masculinity and break down barriers.

Mista Strange's authenticity shines through his music as he fearlessly expresses his sexuality and embraces his identity. Despite adversity, he remains resilient and confident, inspiring others to do the same.

With his powerful presence in the queer British rap scene, Mista Strange continues to make a positive impact and pave the way for other gay rappers to share their stories through artistic expression authentically.

4. ILoveMakonnen

Breaking into the scene with his hit song “Tuesday” featuring Drake in 2014, ILoveMakonnen became a hip-hop game-changer. His real name is Makonnen Kamali Sheran, and as an American rapper and singer, he's known for blending genres—rap, R&B, and even electronic music—to create unique sounds.

But not just his artistic contributions marked him as a significant figure. In January 2017, through a tweet no less bold than himself, ILoveMakonnen came out as gay. This decision was particularly brave given the historically heteronormative culture prevalent within the hip-hop community.

His queerness has shed much-needed light on Black masculinity and identity issues within the rap domain.

5. Kaytranada

Kaytranada is a Haitian-Canadian record producer, rapper, and DJ who has significantly impacted the music industry. He publicly came out as gay in 2016, becoming an important figure in LGBTQ+ representation.

Kaytranada has won two Grammy Awards and has collaborated with many renowned artists, including Madonna. His debut album, “99.9%,” released in 2016, received critical acclaim and showcased his talent, blending hip-hop and R&B beats with infectious melodies.

As part of the Black queer music scene, Kaytranada has overcome shyness to embrace his identity as a gay hip-hop fan. Despite offers to become a bigger mainstream superstar, he remains true to his artistry and continues to pave the way for LGBTQ+ artists with his unique sound and undeniable talent.

6. Isaiah Rashad

Isaiah Rashad, born on May 16, 1991, is an American rapper who has gained recognition for his unique style and talent. One notable moment in Rashad's career was a viral video that circulated online, appearing to show him engaging in sexual activity with another man.

While some claimed this outed Rashad as gay, it is important to note that he has not publicly addressed his sexuality. The leaked video sparked discussions and controversy surrounding his personal life, but despite this speculation, Rashad continues to receive support and recognition for his music.

Recently, he even received the key to the city in his hometown of Tennessee, showing the local appreciation for his talents. At a Coachella performance, Rashad took the opportunity to address the rumored sex tape and discuss his sexuality openly.

7. Kevin Abstract

Kevin Abstract is a groundbreaking rapper and singer who proudly identifies as gay. He has fearlessly incorporated his homosexuality into his music, making him a powerful voice for the LGBTQ+ community within the rap genre.

Abstract's openness about his sexuality challenges norms and breaks barriers in an industry that often stigmatizes queer artists.

Not only does Kevin Abstract use his platform to create change through music, but he also actively collaborates with others in the industry. His current relationship with a collaborator from the rap group Brockhampton showcases how he merges love and artistry seamlessly.

8. Big Freedia

Big Freedia is a trailblazing figure in the music industry and an influential voice for the LGBTQ+ community. As an openly gay and gender-nonconforming rapper, he has broken barriers and brought much-needed visibility to gender fluidity, especially within the black community.

Big Freedia's powerful presence on stage and his unique style of bounce music have made him a force to be reckoned with for over a decade. Despite facing challenges as a black gay man during his earlier years, Big Freedia has risen above adversity to become an icon in the music world and beyond.

He has even been recognized for his talent with Grammy nominations, solidifying his impact on the industry. With catchy beats and empowering lyrics,

9. Le1f

Le1f is an incredibly talented rapper who has fearlessly embraced his queer identity in the music industry. He has faced online harassment and homophobia for being openly gay, but he hasn't let that stop him from pursuing his passion.

Le1f's unique musical style and performance art have significantly impacted the rap scene. He has released a series of well-received mixtapes and gained attention for his track production for Das Racist.

Fashion magazine editors and critics love him for his proficiency, charisma, and open expression of sexuality.

10. Zebra Katz

Zebra Katz, also known as Ojay Morgan, is a Berlin-based Jamaican-American rapper, producer, and songwriter. As an openly gay artist, he has become a prominent figure in the music industry and significantly impacted queer representation in hip-hop.

Zebra Katz's unique style and underground hit “Ima Read” have influenced him to reclaim derogatory language and challenge norms within the genre. He draws inspiration from queer ball culture, and his alter ego refers to him as the “dark lord of the fashion world.” With his dark aesthetic and boundary-pushing sound, Zebra Katz continues to make waves in music and fashion.

11. Y-Love

Y-Love, also known as Yitz Jordan, is an incredibly talented hip-hop artist who has significantly impacted the LGBTQ+ community. As one of the best gay rappers in the industry, he uses his music to express social and political themes that resonate with so many.

His infusion of Orthodox Judaism into his songs sets Y-Love apart, creating a unique blend of religious and personal experiences.

In addition to being recognized as one of the top gay rappers, Y-Love is celebrated as one of the most prominent Black LGBTQ+ artists in hip-hop.

12. Deadlee

Deadlee, a pioneering figure in the music scene, has carved an indelible path through his impactful career. As an openly gay rapper, he fearlessly addressed his identity in his lyrics, reshaping the hip-hop landscape. Deadlee's verses are a testament to his commitment to authenticity, fostering a sense of empowerment within the community he champions.

Beyond the mic, he's a fierce advocate for equality and representation, using his platform to challenge stereotypes and inspire change. Deadlee's legacy reverberates, underscoring the significance of artists who transcend boundaries, making strides toward a more inclusive and accepting world.

13. Kidd Kenn

Kidd Kenn is an incredibly talented and rising star in the music world, especially within the LGBTQ+ community. At just 15 years old, he has made waves in the Chicago music scene and has become one of the most prominent openly gay male rappers.

What sets Kidd Kenn apart is his young age and genre-defying music that pushes boundaries in hip-hop. He recently signed a record deal, making history as the first openly queer rapper to do so.

Kidd Kenn is breaking barriers and bringing much-needed representation to the industry with his unique style and powerful lyrics. He aspires to hit mainstream success and hopes to become a trailblazer for future LGBTQ+ artists in hip-hop.

14. Cakes Da Killa

Cakes Da Killa's unique fusion of hip-hop, house, and electronic dance music sets him apart.

In his lyrics, Cakes Da Killa tackles important themes such as LGBTQ representation and self-expression.

Critics have praised his cadence and striking sound, recognizing him as a talented artist. With songs like “Hedonism,” released in 2016, he emphasizes the importance of challenging homophobia within hip-hop culture.

15. Frank Ocean

Frank Ocean is a renowned artist in the music industry. He is celebrated for his extraordinary talent as a singer, rapper, and songwriter.

His candidness in expressing his sexuality through his artistry has won him praise and challenged entrenched homophobia within the hip-hop scene.

Frank took an audacious step by coming out as bisexual via Tumblr in 2012; an announcement was met with widespread applause. This revelation marked a critical point in breaking down barriers against LGBTQ+ individuals within the hip-hop industry.

16. Saucy Santana

Saucy Santana, a vibrant force in the music realm, has left an indelible mark on the industry. Rising as an openly gay artist, his career is a testament to unapologetic self-expression. Known for his infectious beats and charismatic presence, Santana's music resonates across demographics, igniting conversations on identity and acceptance.

Beyond his sonic prowess, he's an outspoken advocate for diversity, challenging societal norms and fostering dialogue. Santana's journey symbolizes the potency of artists who defy norms, amplifying marginalized voices and creating spaces where authenticity thrives. His influence continues to reverberate, heralding a more inclusive era within the entertainment sphere.

17. Jay Boogie

Jay Boogie is a talented and influential gay rapper who has made significant contributions to the music industry. As a Dominican American artist, he celebrates his identity and promotes body positivity through his music.

One of Jay Boogie's notable tracks is “Body,” released in 2014, which received widespread acclaim for its authenticity and challenging of stereotypes.

He believes that his generation will make history in the music industry, and he uses his social media presence on platforms like Tumblr to connect with fans and spread messages about LGBTQ+ representation.

Top Gay Male Rappers, Final Thoughts

This article about the best gay male rappers celebrates the incredible talent and impact of LGBTQ+ artists in the rap industry. From Frank Ocean to Lil Nas X, these rappers have broken barriers and brought increased visibility to the queer community.

Their contributions are musically significant and crucial for promoting inclusivity and representation in hip-hop.