5 LGBTQ+ south asian artists to add to your playlists
2 min
Hey y’all, Meera here, and on behalf of Ravi Ray Audio, Happy Pride Month!
This month is a time for celebration, reflection, and progress for the LGBTQ+ community. We honor the pioneers who have paved the way and the trailblazers who continue to fight for equality. No matter who you are, who you love, and however you identify, we see you and support you! You are valid and always welcomed.
Here’s a bit of history on the pride flag:
The original rainbow flag was designed by artist Gilbert Barker in 1978 in San Francisco
Each color represents a different symbol: red (life), orange (healing), yellow (sunlight), green (nature), blue (serenity), and purple (spirit)
The flag’s white, pink, and light blue stripes represent the transgender community
The flag’s black and brown stripes represent marginalized LBGTQ+ communities of color, community members lost to HIV/AIDS, and those currently living with AIDS
The white, pink, and light blue stripes along with the black and brown stripes were designed by artist Daniel Quasar in the form of a chevron to represent a need for forward movement
Let’s celebrate the work and impact of these artists not only this month but all year long.
Photo cred: Nylon Manila
London-born, artist dhruv blends dreamy pop and R&B vocals with poetic lyrics that will make you swoon. With Amy Winehouse and Frank Ocean as his musical inspirations, his music shares a sense of intimacy with listeners as he navigates friendships, relationships, insecurities, and more. Having grown up queer in conversation Singapore, his songs explore another depth that inspire listeners to live out their truth.
Most recent song: rapunzel (album)
Our favorite song: double take
Photo cred: Practical Records
Kohinoorgasm is the electronic pop music project of Josephine Shetty. As a mixed-race, South Asian, queer artist, she explores the idea of identity through lyrics full of emotion and complex experiences. Her experimental, synthy music is embodied through minimal dance beats in which she hopes listeners can reflect with her. Her commitment to the underground and community has allowed her to live out her strong personal ethics.
Most recent song: Closer
Our favorite song: Waiting for You
Photo cred: Sound Mind Live
ELSZ is a producer, harpist, vocalist and dancer who grew up both in Sri Lanka and Australia, but is currently based in Brooklyn, NY. Similar to the likes of Princess Nokie and FKA Twigs, ELSZ’s Avant pop, experimental R&B and translucent harp will have listeners captivated. Their work focuses on their experiences with queerness, trauma and gender violence both as a protest and prayer.
Most recent song: Blue Scar
Our favorite song: Are You Okay?
Photo cred: Instagram/@leokaylan
British-Pakistani, indie artist Leo Kaylan has a unique sound that is accompanied by the telling of personal and politically taboo stories. His soft, yet soulful vocals and poetic lyricism are infused with pop and dance music. Kaylan’s music is also reflective of his classical Indian training, love for R&B, and exposure to world music growing up. With the freedom as an independent artist and the desire to make impactful music, he hopes to empower his fans to live life as their authentic selves.
Most recent song: time can wait
Our favorite song: the road
Photo cred: Facebook
DJ Rekha has been a DJ, producer, and most importantly a trailblazer in the South Asian-American music space. They founded and ran Basement Bhangra, a monthly nightclub in NY, for 20 years. By combining Bhangra, hip-hop and electronica, they garnered a huge fan base of South Asians who wanted a space to celebrate their culture and diversity. Since then, DJ Rekha has been accredited for bringing Bhangra to a global platform. Since garnering a respected reputation, they have gone on to work with artists such as M.I.A, Madame Gandhi and Punjabi MC.
Although this is a joyous time, we know it may be especially difficult for some South Asian folx. We send love to those who are unable to come out due to safety concerns, to those who don’t have a support system, to those who have lost close ones by coming out, and to those who are unsure of their sexuality and gender. We hope the platforms listed help you engage with the LGBTQ+ community and explore your identity in a safe space.
IG Communities:
In the past few years, the rights of the LGBTQ+ community have been threatened and now more than ever, we need to encourage allies of the community to join forces to stand together. We must do everything in our ability to fight for the acceptance of the LGTBQ+ community because our world only becomes a better place when everyone is treated as equal. Please consider supporting the organizations listed below that are making strides for the LGBTQ+ community.
Stay well, shine bright.
~Meera
