Madonna was right when she sang, “Music makes the people come together.” One of the ways artists bring people together through their music is by singing about causes they care about—gay rights is one of those causes. Many artists have helped raise awareness of LGBT issues through their work.
The following artists have done just that. Whether they’re an openly gay artist reflecting their own sexuality, or an ally who has been a vocal advocate for LGBT equality, here are the top 10 artists who have helped the LGBT movement.
1. Madonna
In the 1980s, many people were using the AIDS epidemic as an excuse to perpetuate homophobia. Madonna was one of the first mainstream figures who spoke out in defense of the gay community at this time. She got involved in the fight against AIDS, encouraging research and the practice of safe sex. She brought vogueing—a style of dance started in New York’s gay club scene—to the mainstream and featured footage from a gay pride parade in her tour documentary, “Truth or Dare.” She also featured gay, lesbian, and bisexual affection in “Truth or Dare,” the “Justify My Love” video and her “Sex” book. This was still in the early 1990s, before it was a trendy thing for female pop stars to do. More recently, Madonna has spoken out against bullying, anti-gay laws in Malawi and Russia, and the Boy Scouts’ anti-gay policy. Madonna’s advocacy for the LGBT community was acknowledged when gay news magazine, “The Advocate,” named Madonna “the greatest gay icon” in 2012.
2. Janet Jackson
3. Macklemore & Lewis
4. Demi Lovato
5. Melissa Etheridge
6. Christina Aguilera
7. Pansy Division
8. Mika
9. Kurt Cobain
10. Johnny Dangerous
Notice this says "HELP" not "EXPLOIT" (in addition to giving a bad name to the LGBT community) if you're wondering why a certain name isn't on this list
Yes! Madonna is truly an amazing artist and person. She was never afraid to push the boundaries, and while so many pop girls do it too today, none of them do it quite in the same way and with the same risks involved, considering Madonna already forged their path for them.
the omission
