Country music has experienced a significant and growing LGBTQ+ presence in recent years. Artists like Joy Oladokun, Trixie Mattel, and Brooke Eden have made names for themselves in the country music industry by embracing their identities.
One artist who stands out is Joy Oladokun, who has even toured with John Mayer. Despite initial assumptions, country music is not exclusive to the LGBTQ+ community. Over the past few decades, a talented group of openly LGBTQ+ artists has emerged and is making a significant impact on the genre. Here are five LGBTQ+ country artists who are making waves.
Trixie Mattel, known for her various artistic pursuits such as cosmetics, owning a motel, and winning “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars,” is also making a mark in country music. Under her real name, Brian Firkus, Mattel has released four studio albums, three of which have a distinct country and folk sound. In an interview, Mattel mentioned that she initially disliked country music but grew to appreciate its complexity and how it addresses deep emotions. She began playing guitar as a teenager and draws inspiration from artists like June Carter Cash and Dolly Parton. Mattel has collaborated with fellow LGBTQ+ country star Orville Peck and Grammy winner Michelle Branch.
Joy Oladokun is another prominent LGBTQ+ country artist. At just 31 years old, Oladokun has already released four albums and has established herself as a key figure in the country music scene. She is proudly queer and shares Nigerian heritage, which influences her music. Oladokun draws inspiration from Tracy Chapman’s authenticity and the way she deals with heavy emotions. Her latest album, “Proof of Life,” features a duet with country superstar Chris Stapleton and includes introspective and soulful tracks. Oladokun has opened for John Mayer and performed on “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.” She is set to embark on her Living Proof tour in August.
Brooke Eden gained attention when she came out as LGBTQ+ during the pandemic after being advised to hide her relationship. Eden’s journey in music began with her audition for American Idol, and although she did not progress far in the competition, she has since built a successful career in country music. With four EPs under her belt, including her latest release “Outlaw Love,” Eden’s music carries a bold and passionate message that encourages authenticity. She publicly shared her relationship story on social media, discussing the challenges she faced in keeping her relationship private. In 2022, Eden married her partner, officiated by country singer Trisha Yearwood, with Garth Brooks in attendance.
Allison Russell, a music-industry veteran, has been a part of various musical projects throughout her career. She identifies as queer and has been involved in solo work as well as collaborations. In the early 2000s, she contributed to the folk group Po’ Girl and later formed Birds of Chicago with her husband, JT Nero. Their band blends Americana and rock and roll sounds. In 2019, Russell released the critically acclaimed album “Songs of Our Native Daughters” with her group Our Native Daughters, which shed light on African-American women’s stories. Her solo album “Outside Child” received three Grammy nominations. Russell’s latest album, “The Returner,” explores the theme of joy and will be released in September.
Chris Housman, the newest addition to this group of LGBTQ+ country artists, released his first single “Long Story Long” in 2019. Housman grew up in Kansas and came out as gay during his teenage years. He aims to create inclusive music that resonates with everyone, avoiding the use of specific pronouns. His song “Nobody” is a testament to this approach. Housman uses his platform on TikTok to connect with his audience and promote his music. One of his songs, “Drag Queen,” was a response to Tennessee’s proposed anti-drag legislation. This song and its music video, shot at a popular LGBTQ+ venue in Nashville, aimed to spread love and unity. Housman continues to release new music and recently performed at Nashville Pride.
These LGBTQ+ country artists, including Joy Oladokun, Trixie Mattel, Brooke Eden, Allison Russell, and Chris Housman, are breaking barriers and making a significant impact on the country music scene. Their unique perspectives and talents contribute to the diversity of the genre, proving that country music is for everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
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