Are you ready to make the ultimate playlist?
BY CASSIDY BAILEY, IMAGE BY EMILY APRIL ALLEN
Music is a universal language, one that these butch and stud women are fluent in. And, in our opinion, there’s never too much light that can be thrown on their music to give it the attention it deserves.
If you feel like your playlists could be a little queerer, have a listen to some of these butch and stud music artists that we simply can’t get enough of.
Grace Petrie
Leicester’s very own folk singer-songwriter Grace Petrie is known for her fierce and vibrant tunes, brimming with powerful messages and LGBTQIA+ advocacy. Her 2018 album Queer As Folk is a prime example, challenging stereotypes and giving a much-needed spotlight to queer experiences.
Crys Matthews
Crys Matthews is a powerhouse singer-songwriter who weaves her identity as a Black, Southern, butch lesbian woman into influential music. Her latest album Reclamation tackles racism, sexism, gender conformity, women’s rights, LGBTQIA+ issues and more in its 17 impressive tracks.
k. d. lang
k. d. lang is a Grammy and Juno award-winning singer-songwriter known for her distinct voice and musical style that blends country, pop and jazz. Since the Canadian queer pioneer publicly came out as a lesbian in 1992 – becoming one of the first mainstream artists to do so – she’s been an outspoken supporter of LGBTQIA+ rights.
Horse McDonald
Scotland’s iconic singer-songwriter – and beacon of hope and visibility for the LGBTQIA+ community – Horse McDonald has been captivating audiences with her powerful voice and evocative lyrics for over three decades. She’s known for her soul-stirring blend of pop, indie and soul, and she even has her portrait hanging in the Scottish National Portrait Gallery!
Syd
Los Angeles native Syd, formerly known as Syd Tha Kyd, is a multi-talented artist known for her smooth vocals, production and songwriting, while also being an influential voice for the LGBTQIA+ community. She was a member of hip hop collective Odd Future and alternative R&B and soul band The Internet, more recently releasing sensational solo albums.
Young M.A
Young M.A is a force to be reckoned with. The Brooklynite rapper earned nominations for best new artist and best hip-hop female artist at the 2017 BET Awards and she’s also been featured in Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list. She’s also a trailblazer, openly addressing her identity as a lesbian in her music and using her platform to inspire and empower the LGBTQIA+ community.
G Flip (aka “Butch Springsteen”)
G Flip is taking the world by storm with their infectious pop–rock sound and unapologetic authenticity. The Australian artist is currently channelling their alter ego “Butch Springsteen” for their upcoming album Dream Ride, a celebration of their identity as a queer, non-binary artist and some much-needed representation for the LGBTQIA+ community.
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