31 Best Gay Male Singers

22. Stephen Gately

Stephen Gately was a remarkable Irish singer and member of the famous pop group Boyzone. As the first openly gay boy band member, he paved the way for LGBTQ+ representation in the music industry.

Gately showcased his incredible vocal talent as part of Boyzone and occasionally handled lead vocals for some of their hit songs. His rise to fame with Boyzone garnered them a strong gay following, as boy bands have always had an enthusiastic LGBTQ+ fan base.

Tragically, Stephen Gately's life came to an untimely end at 33 while on holiday in Mallorca. His passing was mourned by fans worldwide and deeply felt throughout the music industry.

23. Olly Alexander

Olly Alexander, a British singer, and actor, has become a powerful force in pop queer culture, profoundly impacting the music and entertainment industry. Born on July 15, 1990, Alexander is the lead vocalist of the synth-pop band Years & Years.

Openly gay, he fearlessly addresses LGBTQ+ themes in his music and performances, using his platform to advocate for greater acceptance and representation. Olly Alexander's dedication to authenticity and inclusivity continues to inspire and uplift LGBTQ+ individuals worldwide, creating a more accepting and compassionate pop culture landscape.

24. Steve Grand

Steve Grand is an American singer, songwriter, and model who has made a significant impact as the United States' first openly gay male country singer. Born on February 28, 1990, Steve Grand gained widespread recognition with his viral hits like “All-American Boy.” His song broke barriers in the country music industry, attracting attention for its groundbreaking potential.

With his good looks and undeniable talent, Steve Grand remains influential in the LGBTQ community and music scene.

openly gay artist

25. Billy Porter

Billy Porter is an incredibly talented actor and a professional and influential singer. He has been making waves in the entertainment industry for over 30 years, and his impact on the LGBTQ+ community cannot be overstated.

Billy came out as gay during the AIDS crisis of 16 – a courageous moment that helped pave the way for greater acceptance and visibility for queer individuals.

Billy Porter's voice is truly one-of-a-kind, capturing hearts with its power, emotion, and sheer beauty. He uses this platform not just to entertain music fans worldwide but also as a vehicle through which he champions LGBTQ+ rights and equality.

26. Neil Tennant

Neil Tennant, known for his role as the frontman of the iconic duo the Pet Shop Boys, is undeniably one of the greatest gay male singers in music history. In a 1994 interview with Attitude magazine, he came out as gay and has inspired many LGBTQ+ artists ever since.

Despite identifying as gay, Neil Tennant and his bandmate Chris Lowe have achieved immense success in the music industry. He is recognized for his powerful vocals and catchy tunes and his contributions to LGBTQ+ music and advocacy.

His popularity and influence within mainstream and queer music circles make him an undeniable icon in the LGBTQ+ community.

27. MNEK

MNEK, a British singer, songwriter, and producer, has become a prominent figure in pop queer culture, profoundly impacting the music industry. As an openly gay artist, his music fearlessly embraces LGBTQ+ themes, empowering listeners with messages of self-love and acceptance.

Collaborating with various artists, MNEK's talent and unapologetic queer influence have garnered widespread praise. His powerful vocals and emotional lyrics reflect his resonating with diverse audiences.

Despite not achieving mainstream awards, MNEK's contributions to pop queer culture have fostered visibility and representation, creating a more inclusive and vibrant music landscape for LGBTQ+ artists and listeners.

28. Tyler, The Creator

Tyler, the Creator, an American rapper, singer, and producer, has significantly impacted pop queer culture. Born on March 6, 1991, he gained recognition as the hip-hop collective Odd Future leader.

While he has been open about his fluid sexuality, his earlier music sparked controversy with some lyrics. However, Tyler's artistry has evolved in recent years, and he has fearlessly addressed LGBTQ+ themes in his work, promoting self-expression and acceptance.

His growth as an artist and willingness to explore his queer identity has earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated following, inspiring a new generation of queer artists in the music industry.

29. Perfume Genius

Perfume Genius, the stage name of Mike Hadreas, is a super alternative and modern pop singer known for his hauntingly emotive music. As an openly gay artist, he fearlessly addresses LGBTQ+ themes, love, and identity, empowering listeners with raw vulnerability.

With ethereal vocals and evocative lyrics, Perfume Genius has garnered critical acclaim and a devoted following. His artistry transcends conventional pop, exploring experimental soundscapes and pushing artistic boundaries.

Perfume Genius' unapologetic queer influence has cemented his place as a trailblazing figure in alternative pop, inspiring a generation of LGBTQ+ artists and fans.

30.  Jake Shears

Jake Shears, the vibrant force behind Scissor Sisters, has left an indelible mark on the music landscape and LGBTQ+ community. With his mesmerizing vocals and flamboyant stage presence, Shears propelled the band to global fame in the early 2000s. Their genre-blurring sound, merging disco, pop, and rock, shattered boundaries and ignited dance floors.

Shears' unapologetic openness about his sexuality challenged norms and resonated deeply with audiences, fostering a sense of empowerment and acceptance. Through his music and activism, he's championed LGBTQ+ rights, transcending mere entertainment to become a beacon of hope and representation for countless individuals seeking their own authentic voice.

31.  Ricky Wilson

Ricky Wilson, the spirited Kaiser Chiefs frontman, has woven a remarkable musical tapestry while leaving an enduring imprint on the realm of inclusivity. Through dynamic performances and a distinctive voice, he earned acclaim, steering the band to prominence.

Yet, Wilson's impact transcends the stage as he champions equality and acceptance. A fervent advocate, his genuine support fosters a sense of belonging, illustrating how the fusion of artistry and activism can catalyze positive transformations, resonating profoundly within the community he stands by.

Top Gay Male Singers, Final Thoughts

This list of top gay male singers celebrates the incredible talent and impact of LGBTQ+ artists in the music industry. These singers have entertained us with their powerful voices, challenged societal norms, and paved the way for greater acceptance and representation.

Their contributions have made the world more inclusive, proving that love and art have no boundaries.