35 Best Lesbian Singers

Navigating the music industry as a fan can sometimes feel like an overwhelming task, especially when looking for representation that reaffirms your identity. Like you, we've trawled through numerous playlists and artist profiles in a quest to find talented lesbian singers who are openly proud of their sexuality. Here are the best of them.

1. Tracy Chapman

Tracy Chapman is an iconic singer-songwriter who has captivated audiences for over three decades. With her tender voice and socially conscious lyrics, she has become a beloved figure in the music industry.

Tracy's hits, such as “Fast Car” and “Give Me One Reason,” have not only topped charts but also left a lasting impact on listeners. While Tracy has been private about her personal life, including her identity as an out lesbian, her talent and contributions to music have made her one of the most popular lesbian singers of all time.

2. K. D. Lang

Our music journey wouldn't be complete without the inclusion of K.D. Lang, an exemplary figure among lesbian musicians. Her status as a gifted vocalist is indisputable and her openness about her identity as a proud gay woman has been equally inspiring for many fans around the globe.

K.D. Lang's songs don't just stick to one genre; she explores everything from folk to soul, creating melodies that are touching, moving, and emotionally captivating. We can assure you, listening to K.D.'s tracks is an experience you won't easily forget! She gives other prominent lesbian artists like Melissa Etheridge and Tracy Chapman a good run for their money!

3. Alice Phoebe Lou

Born in South Africa and now living in Berlin, Alice Phoebe Lou is a die-hard feminist and believer in equality, which is reflected in her music, some of which is biographical of nature, and some based on her observations of the world we all live in. Wanting to change the world for the better, this singer/songwriter/musician is having a great impact on issues such as partner abuse.

Humorously, delightfully fresh, her music stands out and if you haven’t heard her album “Paper Castles” yet, it’s time to do so. Described by some as charmingly hypnotic, her music sets a different standard than that of commercial pop music.

4. Melissa Etheridge

Melissa Etheridge, the raspy-voiced, folk-rock sensation swept us off our feet in 1988 with her self-titled debut album. Her distinctive and recognizable voice coupled with confessional lyrics wasn't the only reason for her fame; she's known to be an LGBTQ+ activist, greatly impacting lesbian culture by openly embracing herself as a part of it. Noteworthy is how Melissa started by performing in lesbian bars before reaching stardom; her

5. Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah, known for her powerful voice and charismatic stage presence, is an iconic lesbian singer and rapper who has made a significant impact on the music and film industries.

Queen Latifah is more than just a stage name. She is a queen of hip hop, R&B, jazz, and soul, who has also conquered the worlds of film, television, and production. She started rapping at 18 and released her debut album All Hail the Queen in 1989. She won a Grammy for her empowering anthem “U.N.I.T.Y.”, which challenged sexism and violence against women.

6. Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is an American singer, rapper, and actress who has made a significant impact on the music industry. She confirmed her non-binary identity during an appearance on “Red Table Talk,” adding to her previous revelation of being pansexual in 2018. Monáe embraces her sexuality across the spectrum and has become an important figure in the LGBTQ+ community.

Rising to fame as an inventive pop android, Monáe's talent and authenticity as an artist have been widely praised. Her album “The ArchAndroid” reached number two on the US Top Heatseekers chart, solidifying her place among the best lesbian singers.

7. Girl In Red

Girl In Red, the stage name for Marie Ulven Ringheim, is a talented Norwegian singer-songwriter and record producer. She has made a name for herself in the indie pop scene with her unique and heartfelt music. What sets Girl In Red apart is her bedroom recording style – she started out making music in her own bedroom, and it resonates with many listeners who appreciate its raw authenticity.

8. Brandy Clark

Brandy Clark is a lesbian country singer and songwriter who tells honest stories with her music. She has written hits for stars like Reba McEntire and Kacey Musgraves, and earned multiple Grammy nominations for her own albums. She is also an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ representation in country music, and came out publicly in 2012.

9. St. Vincent

St. Vincent, also known as Annie Clark, is a talented and highly acclaimed lesbian singer-songwriter. With her unique blend of indie rock and art pop, she has captivated audiences around the world.

St. Vincent's music often explores themes of love, identity, and self-discovery from a queer perspective. Her powerful vocals and intricate guitar work have earned her numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards.

10. Kehlani

Kehlani is an incredibly talented singer and songwriter who has made a significant impact on the music industry. Known for her smooth R&B sound, Kehlani publicly identified as queer and pansexual before coming out as a lesbian in early 2021 during a live stream.

She has been open about her sexuality, never shying away from discussing it. Kehlani's announcement adds her to the list of best lesbian singers alongside other notable names like Melissa Etheridge, k.d. lang, and Tracy Chapman. Her identification as a lesbian brings diversity to the representation of LGBTQ+ artists in the industry and highlights the range of experiences within the community.

11. Indigo Girls

The Indigo Girls, Amy Ray, and Emily Saliers are incredibly talented folk musicians who have been making music together for over three decades. They are not only known for their beautiful harmonies and songwriting skills but also for being openly lesbian artists in a time when few people were out. In fact, they have been recognized as pioneers in the LGBTQ+ community.

12. Tegan And Sara

Tegan and Sara are an incredible Canadian indie pop duo that has been making waves in the music industry since their formation in 1998. Led by identical twin sisters Tegan Rain Quin and Sara Keirsten, they have captured the hearts of many with their unique sound and open embrace of their queer identities.

Tegan is proud to identify as a lesbian, and both sisters draw inspiration from '90s movies and musicians who paved the way for LGBT+ representation. Their songs often explore themes of love, relationships, and self-discovery, with tracks like “I Was Married” showcasing their personal journey as queer individuals.

13. Brandi Carlile

Brandi Carlile is a singer-songwriter who has made her mark in the music industry with her unique sound and powerful lyrics. Her music spans across various genres, including folk rock and alternative country, captivating fans from all walks of life. Brandi Carlile is openly lesbian and uses her platform to raise awareness and support for the community.

14. Syd

Syd, an American musician and singer from Los Angeles, is undeniably one of the best lesbian singers in the music industry. Formerly known as Syd tha Kyd, she gained recognition as a member of the alt-hip hop group Odd Future, where she proudly represented herself as the only openly gay member.

After parting ways with the group, Syd embarked on a successful solo career as an alternative hip-hop artist.

15. Hayley Kiyoko

Hayley Kiyoko is a talented singer-songwriter who has made a significant impact in the music industry. Known for her catchy pop tunes and thought-provoking lyrics, Kiyoko's music explores her emotions surrounding her queer identity. She has become a strong advocate for LGBTQ+ representation in the music industry and beyond.

16. Young M. A.

Young M.A., also known as Katorah Kasanova Marrero, is a rising star in the music industry and one of the top 50 most popular lesbian singers of all time. She gained notoriety in 2014 when a Facebook post criticizing her music went viral, which ultimately helped bring attention to her talent as a musician and gifted singer.

As a black queer artist, Young M.A. is associated with the revolutionary act of black men loving black men. Her debut single, “Ooouuu,” became incredibly popular and contributed to her rise to prominence in the music scene.

17. Lesley Gore

Lesley Gore, born Lesley Sue Goldstein, was an American singer and songwriter who made a significant impact on the music industry. She gained fame at just 16 years old with her hit song “It's My Party,” capturing the hearts of audiences worldwide.

Lesley had a unique journey in discovering her identity as a lesbian. While she dated both men and women during her youth, it was her first serious relationship with a woman in her twenties that confirmed her sexuality.

18. Sia

Sia is an incredibly talented Australian singer and songwriter who has made a name for herself in the music industry. Known for her powerful vocals and unique musical style, Sia has been actively involved in the LGBTQ+ community and has made significant contributions to their cause.

One notable aspect of Sia's career is her work on Miley Cyrus's new album, where she will be featured on a song called “Muddy Feet.” This album boasts an impressive lineup of queer women artists, further showcasing Sia's commitment to supporting fellow LGBTQ+ musicians.

19. Joan Jett

Joan Jett is a true rock and roll trailblazer. As the frontwoman for Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, she has left an indelible mark on the music industry. With her empowering and rebellious style, Joan Jett has become a legendary figure in rock music.

Not only is Joan Jett an incredible singer, but she is also a talented guitarist, record producer, and actress. Her contributions to the Riot Grrrl movement through her label Blackheart Records have further cemented her place in music history.

20. Sinéad O'Connor

Sinéad O'Connor is an incredible Irish singer and musician, known for her powerful vocals that can send shivers down your spine. She burst onto the music scene with her debut album, The Lion and the Cobra, in 1987, which achieved international success and solidified her status as one of the greatest singers to come out of the industry.

But Sinéad's talents aren't limited to just singing; she is also a skilled musician who plays multiple instruments.

21. King Princess

King Princess, also known as Mikaela Mullaney Straus, is an incredibly talented American singer-songwriter who has captured the hearts of music fans around the world. As one of the 33 best lesbian singers, King Princess has become a prominent figure in the LGBTQ+ community for her genderqueer identity and powerful storytelling through her music.

Born on December 19, 1998, in Brooklyn, New York, King Princess grew up immersed in a creative environment that ultimately shaped her unique sound. With a distinctive voice described as lush and broken, King Princess creates guitar-driven melodies that transcend time. Her songs evoke emotion and capture personal experiences with raw honesty.

22. Chely Wright

Chely Wright is a talented lesbian country music artist who has made a name for herself in the industry. With hit singles like “Single White Female,” she has garnered both commercial success and critical acclaim.

Chely began her career in the 1990s and quickly gained recognition, being named Top New Female Vocalist in 1995. However, it wasn't until ten years ago that she bravely came out as gay, becoming the first openly gay mainstream country artist.

23. Laura Pergolizzi

Laura Pergolizzi, also known as LP, is a singer-songwriter who has made a significant impact in the music industry. With her unique vocal style and nonbinary identity, she stands out as one of the best lesbian singers of all time.

Born on March 18, 1981, in Long Island, United States, LP's talent quickly gained mainstream recognition. LP has released six albums and three EPs throughout her career. As a songwriter, she has worked with some of the biggest names in music including Cher, Rihanna, and Christina Aguilera.

24. Arlo Parks

Arlo Parks is an exciting and talented singer-songwriter from England who has made a name for herself in the music industry. As a queer Black artist, she brings a unique perspective to her music that resonates with many fans in the LGBTQ+ community.

Arlo Parks believes strongly in using music as a form of expression and representation for marginalized communities. Drawing inspiration from powerful poets like Sylvia Plath and influential musicians like Joni Mitchell, Arlo Parks combines poetic lyrics with her lo-fi emo-pop sound to create incredibly moving songs.

25. Halsey

Halsey is an incredibly talented and influential singer who deserves her spot on the list of best lesbian singers. Not only is she openly bisexual, adding to LGBTQ+ representation in the music industry, but she also speaks openly about her multiracial identity.

Halsey has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, showcasing her resilience and courage in facing mental health challenges. She's a strong advocate for mental health awareness and uses her platform to address important social issues through her genre-blending music.

26. Zolita

Zolita, also known as Zoë Montana Hoetzel, is a talented American singer-songwriter who has caught the attention of music fans with her unique style and captivating music videos. She has been recognized for her work on Billboard's list of “30 Lesbian Love Songs” and is considered one of the best lesbian singers of all time.

Zolita not only identifies herself as a lesbian but also embraces her identity as a witch, adding an intriguing element to her artistry. Her dark, synth-drenched songs explore themes of sensuality and longing, often touching on experiences within lesbian love and relationships.

27. Victoria Monét

Victoria Monét is an incredibly talented singer-songwriter who has made a name for herself in the music industry. She has not only written songs for some of the biggest artists, including Janelle Monáe, Ariana Grande, and Selena Gomez, but she has also established herself as a powerful queer artist in her own right.

Victoria Monét proudly identifies as bisexual and has used her music to express her identity and bring more visibility to the LGBTQ+ community.

28. Lynn Gunn

Lynn Gunn, born Lyndsey Gerd Gunnulfsen, is a talented American singer and the lead vocalist for the rock band Pvris. As the frontwoman of the lesbian-fronted band Pvris, which she helped found in 2013, Lynn Gunn has made a name for herself in the music industry.

Known for her dynamic performances and powerful vocals, she has gained popularity and success within the alternative rock scene.

29. Fletcher

Fletcher, also known as Cari Elise Fletcher, is a singer and songwriter who has made a name for herself in the music industry. Growing up, she found inspiration in vocal powerhouses like Celine Dion, Mariah Carey, and Whitney Houston.

But what sets Fletcher apart is her openness about her sexuality. In heartfelt interviews and through her music, she shares her personal journey with listeners. Often described as a “buzzy pop singer,” Fletcher believes that addressing sexuality is an important topic to discuss in her artistry.

30. Beatrice Eli

Beatrice Eli is a Swedish lesbian musician who has made a mark in the music industry as one of the best lesbian singers. She is known for her feminist and sexually explicit lyrics, which reflect her strong emphasis on queer longing and heartbreak.

Beatrice's music explores themes surrounding the LGBTQ+ community, same-sex relationships, and gender identity. Her popular song “Girls” delves into these topics with honesty and vulnerability.

31. Lionstorm

Next on our list of the best lesbian singers is Lionstorm, a Dutch queer/lesbian hip-hop duo. Consisting of Gale Rama and Sterresoet van Schooten, Lionstorm has earned recognition in the music industry for their unique sound and captivating performances.

Although they may not be as widely known as some of the other artists on this list, Lionstorm's inclusion among the top lesbian singers is intriguing. While many of the other featured artists come from various backgrounds, Lionstorm brings a fresh perspective to their genre with their Dutch roots and impressive hip-hop style.

32. Anika Moa

Anika Moa is a talented singer, songwriter, and musician hailing from Auckland, New Zealand. With her debut studio album “Thinking Room” released in September, Anika has made a name for herself in the pop music scene.

Her sweet and melodic voice adds an enchanting touch to her music that truly captivates listeners. Plus it's worth mentioning that she has even had dreams about other famous lesbian singer-songwriters like Lorde!

33. Marika Louise Hackman

Marika Louise Hackman was born on February 17, 1992, and is an English vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, and songwriter. Her music falls can be categorized as alternative and English-folk genres, and with her dark, melancholic lyrics, her albums are considered soothing yet refreshingly exciting.

Whilst most of her songs are sung accompanied by her acoustic guitar, she has also used synthesizers extensively. If you haven’t listened to ‘Animal Fear' from her debut album, ‘We Slept At Last', you’ve missed out on an exhilarating experience.

34. Ally Hills

Ally Hills is a singer and songwriter who discusses LGBT issues through music, and her lyrics are frankly honest about being in lesbian relationships. She enjoys the occasional silly song and accompanying video to show life is not just about being serious.

Ally has produced music videos such as “In Love With a Straight Girl”, “How to Know a Girl is a Lesbian”, and “Coming Out”. Her music is often humorous, but not always comedic, and she discusses her views on life effectively through her lyrics.

35. Dusty Springfield

Dusty Springfield hugely influenced the music industry with her soulful sound during the swinging sixties. She's often remembered as one of the bestselling singers of that era and was even voted as the Top Female Singer in 1964, thanks to a loyal fan base and undeniably resonant voice.

Top Lesbian Singers, Final Thoughts

Our list of the best lesbian singers celebrates the talent and impact of lesbian singers in the music industry. From iconic performers such as Melissa Etheridge and Tracy Chapman to rising stars like King Princess and Alice Phoebe Lou, these women have made significant contributions to music while proudly embracing their sexuality.

As LGBTQ+ visibility continues to grow, it's important to recognize and support these remarkable artists as they share their stories through their powerful voices.