Gay country and western singers

Lil Nas X

Lil Nas X, born Montero Lamar Hill in Georgia, gained fame with his genre-blending hit Old Town Road in 2019, which became the longest-running number-one song on the Billboard Hot 100.

Initially using music as an escape, Lil Nas X’s work often reflects his experiences as a Black gay man navigating fame and identity.

His openness about his sexuality has been groundbreaking in the hip-hop and country music scenes.

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He was an openly gay artist who challenged traditional country music norms and paved the way for LGBTQ representation in the industry.

In 1973, Haggerty released Lavender Country, which is believed to be the first known gay-themed album in country music history. This groundbreaking record gained recognition for its nonconformist approach and became important to LGBTQ visibility in music.

Haggerty’s refusal to conform to stereotypes left a lasting legacy, and his music inspires and resonates with audiences today.

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lang, especially her Absolute Torch and Twang album. Trixie Mattel

Trixie Mattel, born Brian Michael Firkus on August 23, 1989, in Silver Cliff, Wisconsin, is a drag queen, singer-songwriter, and television personality.

She gained fame after winning RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars Season 3 and has released albums like Two Birds (2017) and Barbara (2020).

Mattel’s music combines humor with heartfelt storytelling, drawing from her experiences in drag and personal life.

Later, her work challenges traditional norms, bringing a fresh perspective to country and folk music.

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Karen & the Sorrows

Karen & the Sorrows is a Brooklyn-based queer country band led by singer-songwriter Karen Pittelman.

Since their formation in 2011, they have released several albums, including The Names of Things (2014), Guaranteed Broken Heart (2018), and Why Do We Want What We Want (2023).

The band’s music often goes into themes of heartbreak and identity, aiming to create a more inclusive space within the country music scene.

Pittelman has been instrumental in building a queer country community through initiatives like the Gay Ole Opry and Queer Country Quarterly.

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With six number-one hits across the UK, Canada, and New Zealand, Tommy Atkins has undoubtedly captured the hearts of country music fans worldwide.

Based in Newcastle, England, Tommy Atkins is known for his incredible talent and contributions to the LGBTQ+ community in country music.

As the founder and host of Proud to Be Coun, a platform for LGBTQ+ country music artists, Tommy Atkins continues to create a space where artists can express themselves freely and be celebrated for who they are.

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His impact is not solely confined to music; Weigle’s advocacy and honesty ripple beyond the stage, fostering an environment of acceptance and change.

Through his melodies and candidness, he amplifies the chorus of voices echoing for a more inclusive world.

10. Tommy Atkins

Tommy Atkins is a talented gay country singer from the UK.

In 2020, he made history on country radio by releasing the first-ever hit to feature openly gay lyrics in Europe. Chely Wright

Chely Wright, born Richell Rene Wright on October 25, 1970, in Kansas City, Missouri, is a country music artist and LGBTQ+ activist.

She rose to fame with hits like Single White Female and made history in 2010 by becoming the first major country artist to come out as gay.

Laster, her family’s musical background supported Wright’s early aspirations in music and her decision to come out was driven by a desire to live authentically and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights within the country music industry.

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Maiah Wynne

Maiah Wynne, born December 22, 1996, in Colorado, is a singer-songwriter based in Gresham, Oregon.

She began composing music at the age of seven and gained recognition through music competitions during her high school years in Missoula, Montana.

Wynne is known for her hauntingly beautiful voice and has collaborated with artists like Alex Lifeson of Rush.

And, her motivation for pursuing music lies in her desire to make a difference through her art.

T.J. Osborne (Brothers Osborne)

T.J. T. J. Osborne

The country music genre has recently seen a surge in LGBTQ+ representation.

But again, I felt like I was promoting invisibility, like I wasn’t being visible and wasn’t being myself. His open discussions about his identity and experiences resonate, creating a space for understanding and acceptance.

By unapologetically embracing his true self and fostering conversations, Steve Grand has become an emblem of change, demonstrating the power of authenticity in the industry and beyond.

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With a voice as rich as the landscapes he sings about, Belew has carved a unique path in country music.

Hailing from a genre often associated with tradition, Cody Belew fearlessly embraces his identity as a gay man, challenging stereotypes and breaking down barriers along the way.

His music becomes a bridge, connecting the heart of the country with the pulse of change, inviting listeners of all backgrounds to experience the beauty of his melodies.

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In an interview with PEOPLE, he revealed that he had been keeping his sexuality a secret throughout his entire career.

Herndon shared that he realized he was gay at age ten and struggled with guilt about it. A critical figure leading this change is T.J. Osborne of the Brothers Osborne. Waylon Payne

We’re diving into the journey of Waylon Payne, a prominent figure in the country music scene who recently resurfaced after a 15-year hiatus.

Amythyst Kiah

Amythyst Kiah, born in 1990 in Chattanooga, Tennessee, is an American singer-songwriter whose music combines elements of folk, blues, and Americana.

She gained recognition as a member of Our Native Daughters and through her solo work.

Her studies influenced Kiah’s musical career in Bluegrass, Old Time, and Country Music at East Tennessee State University.

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Lavender Country was widely praised as a pioneer, while Orville Peck, Brandy Clark, and Sarah Shook stood out for their unique styles.

Users also mentioned Brandi Carlile, Wilma Burgess, Willi Carlisle, and k.d. He released his debut solo album, which addresses themes of queer identity and challenges stereotypes in bluegrass and Appalachian music.

Hiltner’s work aims to bring visibility to queer voices in bluegrass, mixing traditional aesthetics with progressive storytelling.

He is also known for his contributions to music journalism and advocacy within the genre.

Started	Top Hits	Debut Album
2018	1992, Benson Street	1992 (2022)

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