Celebrate these black LGBTQIA+ artists by listening to some of their songs!

In case you were not aware, people of African descent can be queer and they exist all over the planet! Below is a list of just ten black queer artists whose music I've come to personally enjoy. These artists bring visibility and joy to black queer people everywhere so it's worth listening to some of their songs. You might like a couple of them...

1. Todrick Hall

Before Lil Nas X was tearing up a storm in the media with Montero, Todrick Hall was out here representing gays world-over! This African-American singer-songwriter, youtuber and choreographer will make you want to hit the dance floor instantly. You have been warned.

Other tracks you should check out include: Nails, Hair, Hips, Heels; Boys in the Ocean; Queen; Both; Low and Breath.

You can also check out his YouTube channel for more of his other content.

2. Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monaé is an African-American singer-songwriter, rapper and actor. They are also a successful business leader and science fiction author. If their astounding resume doesn't impress you, I don't know what will. They are obviously an inspiration to black queer people given their ambition and talent; they're an amazing example of black and queer excellence.

Some tracks to consider: Yoga; I Like That; Q.U.E.E.N.; Django Jane and PYNK .

3. Taylor Bennett

This rapper's lyrics are so honest, vulnerable and sentimental. If he looks kind of familiar, it's because his older brother is Chance The Rapper. If you're in need of some uplifting, healing music, then Taylor Bennett is the artist for you. I personally love how most of his songs are about loving and taking care of yourself.

Tracks you should listen to: Broad Shoulders; Dancing in the Rain; Favorite Colors; Neon Lights and Be Yourself Pt 2. (Sunset Falls) .

4. BRONZE AVERY

Gabriel Brown, known professionally as BRONZE AVERY, is an African-American pop singer-songwriter. If you love electronic pop, then Bronze Avery is the artist for you. His beautiful, angelic voice will definitely hypnotize you.

Some song suggestions: Sea Salt; Leave Together; Messy and Want 2 .

5. Keiynan Lonsdale

Keiynan Lonsdale is a Nigerian-Australian actor, singer-songwriter and dancer. You might recall him from movies like Love, Simon and Insurgent. He is mostly known for his role on the CW show The Flash where he played Wally West, aka Kid Flash. He offers a range of music styles, but if you're looking for that 70s disco vibe then you should check out his latest album-- Rainbow Boy.

Songs to consider: Rhythm & Music; Rainbow Dragon; Ancient One; On My Wave and Kiss The Boy .

6. VINCINT

Vincint Cannady, known by his stage name VINCINT, is an African-American pop singer-songwriter. His powerful voice and profound lyrics will electrocute your soul and fill you with joy. When you're feeling down, VINCINT's music has the power to lift you up to higher ground.

Songs to listen to: Be Me; Someday; Higher; Hard 2 Forget; What If and Please Don't Fall in Love.

7. CHIKA

CHIKA is an African-American rapper/singer of Igbo descent. In all of her music, CHIKA spotlights body positivity, blackness and her bisexuality. If you love R&B, soul and/or hip-hop music, then you should consider checking out some of CHIKA's songs.

My personal favorites: U Should; FWB; FAIRY TALES; Middle Ground (Alessia Cara feat. CHIKA); High Rises; My Power and BALENCIES .

8. RuPaul

RuPaul is the Queen of Drag. He is also an author, singer-songwriter, actor, TV host/executive producer and supermodel. If you haven't heard of him, you must've been living under a rock because honey, he is the industry. His discography largely consists of dance-pop/ disco-house bops. But you don't listen to RuPaul just to dance. No, you listen to RuPaul when you want to work it!

Songs to check out: Sissy That Walk; Call Me Mother; Cover Gril; Bring Back My Girls; Catwalk; Just What They Want and Glamazon.

9. Lil Nas X

Lil Nas X is something of a miracle for the black queer community. There aren't that many black queer artists that manage to break into the mainstream and top the charts. When I ask people to think of black gay musicians today, Lil Nas X is one of the first to be named almost 100% of the time. In terms of music style, he's difficult to categorize. His discography spans several genres including, pop, hip-hop and country rap.

I recommend listening to: THAT'S WHAT I WANT; INDUSTRY BABY; Old Town Road(Remix version); SUN GOES DOWN; TALES OF DOMINICA and Panini.

10. Syd

Sydney Loren Bennett, AKA Syd, is an African-American singer-songwriter known for her alternative R&B/hip-hop songs and soothing honey-like voice. She is also a founding member and lead vocalist of the alternative R&B band, The Internet. Whether you're spending some quality time with your significant other or out on a late night drive, Syd's music is just right for the mood.

Tracks I enjoy listening to: Out Loud; CYBAH; Right Track; Birthday; Body and Missing Out .

There are many more black queer artists out there from all over the world waiting for you to check out their music. I hope this post inspired you to take the initiative to search for them. If you have any you'd like to recommend, let me know!

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