25+ Lesbian Songs That Are Actually Tunes

Looking for some catchy tunes that you can actually relate to? Us too babes! Throughout the 80s it was nearly impossible to find songs that were for queer women, understandably because it wasn’t the done thing to come out then, sadly. However fast forward to 2020 and seems there are lots of lesbian singers who are starting to write about other women, hooray. So, like the legends we are, we’ve curated a list of 25+ lesbian songs that are absolute bops, plus we’ll be adding to this article so make sure you pop back.

From iconic anthems to hidden gems, these tracks are not only pure shoutouts to the lesbian community (thanks!) they also offer a diverse range of musical styles. Whether you’re looking to add some new faves to your playlist or simply need some WLW music in your life, this collection has got you covered. Our list has artists who fearlessly express their queer identities and create music that resonates with millions. So, turn up the volume and let these lesbian anthems fill your house and your neighbors too (sorry, Sue).

The Importance of Representation in Music

Before we give you the goods, it’s important to have a little chat about representation.

Music has always been a powerful tool for self-expression, and representation plays a crucial role in ensuring that everyone feels seen and heard. For the LGBTQ+ community, finding songs that reflect their experiences and emotions can be incredibly empowering. Lesbian songs, in particular, offer a glimpse into the lives of queer women, exploring themes of love, heartbreak, and identity. By featuring lesbian artists and their music, we not only celebrate their talent but also create a space where queer voices can be amplified. It’s through these songs that we can challenge societal norms, break down stereotypes, and foster a sense of belonging within the LGBTQ+ community.

When lesbian songs are played on the radio, streamed online, or performed on stage, they send a powerful message to listeners. They validate feelings and experiences that may have been dismissed or ignored. They provide a soundtrack to love stories that have often been overlooked. In a world where representation matters, lesbian songs have the power to inspire, uplift, and unite individuals from all walks of life.
Amen, sister! Cool so, let’s now get into the world of lesbian music and chat about the bops that are making waves.

Classic Lesbian Anthems

Before we explore new lesbian artists, let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit some classic lesbian anthems that have stood the test of time. These songs have become cultural touchstones, representing the struggles, triumphs, and joys of the lesbian community. Perhaps these were the limited glimpses of queer music in the 90s and 00s.

Let’s start with the iconic “I Kissed a Girl” by Katy Perry. Katy Perry is not a lesbian of course, but she did give us this absolute banger in 2008. Apparently, the song was partially inspired by Perry’s friend with a girl as a teenager, commenting that “I did kiss her. I was totally obsessed with her. She was beautiful — porcelain skin, perfect lips.” Well, we love that Pezzah!

Can we really have a lesbian songs article and not mention the legendary “All the Things She Said” by t.A.T.u? Lol, don’t pretend like you don’t like t.a.T.u. As teenagers (yes, Nonchalant writers were born in the 80s, don’t take the p*ss now), this was a music video that we all watched on repeat on MTV. Are we right or are we right?!

Contemporary Lesbian Artists

As time goes on, more and more lesbian artists are stepping into the spotlight and making their voices heard (*cough* via TikTok). These talented musicians are not only creating incredible music, but they are also using their platforms to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility (legends!). From the raw and emotional storytelling of Hayley Kiyoko to the bold and unapologetic performances of Janelle Monáe, these artists are leaving a lasting impact on the music industry and the LGBTQ+ community.

Hayley Kiyoko, also known as “Lesbian Jesus,” has become a beacon of representation for queer women in the music industry. Her songs, such as “Girls Like Girls” and “Curious,” explore themes of love, identity, and self-acceptance. Kiyoko’s music videos often depict same-sex relationships, challenging heteronormative narratives and showcasing the beauty of queer love.

Similarly, Janelle Monáe has been unapologetically queer in her music, using her platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. Her album “Dirty Computer” is a celebration of sexuality, self-expression, and embracing one’s true identity.

Next up, is super cute Arlo Parks.

Arlo Parks is a talented British singer, songwriter, and poet who gained widespread recognition for her introspective and emotionally resonant music. Born on August 9, 2000, in London, England, as Anaïs Oluwatoyin Estelle Marinho, she adopted the stage name Arlo Parks as a tribute to her first name and a park near her home. Parks has publicly identified as bisexual. In interviews and through her music, Parks has spoken openly about her sexuality and experiences as a member of the LGBTQ+ community. She has expressed a commitment to using her platform to bring visibility to queer experiences and to promote acceptance and understanding. Parks’ openness about her sexuality has resonated with many fans and has helped foster a sense of connection and representation within the LGBTQ+ community.

We recently saw Arlo Parks at the BBC6 Music Festival and found her captivating.

This next tune is one we had on repeat. Dove Cameron is an American actress and singer who rose to prominence for her roles in various Disney Channel productions. She was born on January 15, 1996, in Seattle, Washington, as Chloe Celeste Hosterman but is better known by her stage name, Dove Cameron. Cameron had an unexpected success with her song “Boyfriend” when it went viral on TikTok. Dove Cameron came out as bisexual in 2020.

Lesbian Love Songs

Hearing a woman sing about how they are in love with another woman is extremely important, love after all is a universal language. Lesbian love songs capture the unique experiences and emotions of queer women in love. These songs celebrate same-sex relationships, showcasing the beauty, passion, and intensity of lesbian love. From tender ballads to upbeat anthems, these tracks will make your heart flutter and your spirits soar.

One of the most beloved lesbian love songs is “Closer” by Tegan and Sara. This indie-pop duo has been creating music that resonates with the LGBTQ+ community for years, and “Closer” is a perfect example of their talent. With its infectious melody and heartfelt lyrics, this song captures the excitement and longing of a new love.

Another standout lesbian love song is “She Keeps Me Warm” by Mary Lambert. Featured in Macklemore and Ryan Lewis’s hit song “Same Love,” Lambert’s powerful vocals and poetic lyrics create an emotional and heartfelt tribute to same-sex love.

If you’re after more lesbian-long songs, then Kehlani is your girl. Kehlani, an American singer, songwriter, and dancer, has identified as bisexual. She has been open about her sexuality and has spoken publicly about her experiences and relationships with both men and women. Kehlani’s music often explores themes of love, relationships, and personal identity, and she has been praised for her authenticity and openness in discussing her sexuality.

Empowering Lesbian Songs

In addition to love songs, there are also empowering lesbian tracks that inspire confidence, self-acceptance, and resilience. These songs encourage listeners to embrace their true selves, defy societal expectations, and stand up for what they believe in. Whether you need a boost of self-confidence or a reminder of your inner strength, these tracks will empower you to be unapologetically yourself.

If we’re moving on to talking about empowering lesbian songs, and powerful lesbians then we have to discuss our girl Fletcher. If you don’t know who Fletcher is, where have you been love?

Fletcher, whose full name is Cari Elise Fletcher, is an openly lesbian artist. Fletcher is an American singer-songwriter known for her pop music and candid lyrics. She has been open about her sexuality and has used her platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility. Through her music and public statements, Fletcher has become a role model for many in the LGBTQ+ community, particularly lesbian and queer women, by embracing her identity and sharing her experiences authentically.

Fletcher has also recently been known for her controversial tunes about her ex-girlfriend Shannon Beveridge’s current girlfriend who’s called Becky, ouch – we love the drama though.

Underrated Lesbian Songs

While there are many well-known lesbian songs, there are also plenty of underrated tracks that deserve recognition. These hidden gems may not have received as much mainstream attention, but they are definitely worth a listen. From emerging artists to underground musicians, these underrated lesbian tunes offer fresh perspectives and unique musical styles.

We’ll start with King Mala, who has been known to speak openly about her love of girls, but rarely speaks about her labels has come out with an absolute banger, which I’m sure we can all relate to right? “She Calls me Daddy”.

One underrated lesbian bop is “Cliff’s Edge” by Hayley Kiyoko. This electro-pop track captures the intensity and uncertainty of a new romance, with Kiyoko’s mesmerizing vocals drawing listeners in.

Another underrated gem is “She’s my sunshine” by Celeste. This is sadly not truly a lesbian song, as it’s supposedly written about the city she grew up in, London. But it still lands nicely on date night, if ya get me.

Shura, whose real name is Alexandra Lilah Denton, is an openly lesbian artist. Shura is a British singer, songwriter, and producer known for her dreamy synth-pop sound and introspective lyrics. She has been open about her sexuality and has incorporated LGBTQ+ themes and experiences into her music.

Shura gained attention with her debut single, “Touch,” in 2014, which received critical acclaim for its catchy melody and relatable lyrics. The song explores desire and intimacy between two women and resonated with audiences, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community.

Next up is “only a girl” by Gia Woods. Gia Woods is an Iranian-American singer, songwriter, and LGBTQ+ advocate. She was born on March 3, 1997, in Los Angeles, California. Gia first gained attention with her debut single “Only a Girl” in 2015, which received positive reviews for its catchy pop sound and empowering lyrics.

Now, did you all think Chelcee Grimes was just a footballer and TV Presenter? Oh no no no, she also is an incredibly successful songwriter and has created tunes for the likes of Kyle Manogue. Swit Swoo. Not only that, but she also created this little banger too where she appears in the music video with ex-girlfriend Megan Barton-Hanson.

We have another one up our sleeve, have you heard of Emily Burns? Emily Burns is a British singer and songwriter known for her pop-infused music. Personal aspects of an individual’s life, such as their sexual orientation, are personal matters, and it is up to the individual to share that information publicly if they choose to do so. It’s always important to respect an individual’s privacy and allow them to disclose such information themselves.

You might have also seen our recent interview with OG Actress Heather Peace, well known for her roles in Lip Service, London’s Burning, and now current Eastenders. Well, did you know she also is a singer-songwriter too?

Popular Lesbian Songs in Different Genres

Lesbian songs span across various genres, from pop and rock to hip-hop and country. No matter your musical taste, there’s a lesbian song for everyone. Be sure to read our article dedicated to Lesbian Rappers too.

In the pop genre, “Curious” by Hayley Kiyoko has become a fan-favorite. It’s infectious beat and catchy chorus make it a perfect addition to any party playlist.

Moving to rock, “Rebel Girl” by Bikini Kill. Bikini Kill was an influential band within the riot grrrl movement, a feminist punk movement that emerged in the early 1990s. Their music and lyrics addressed topics such as sexism, patriarchy, and gender inequality, while also promoting self-expression, activism, and solidarity among women.

Lucy Spraggan, a British singer-songwriter, identifies as a lesbian. She gained recognition after appearing on the ninth season of The X Factor UK in 2012, where she impressed both the judges and viewers with her original compositions. Spraggan’s music often reflects her personal experiences and her journey as a lesbian artist. She has been open and proud about her sexuality, and her songs often touch on LGBTQ+ themes and celebrate love and identity. Spraggan’s honesty and authenticity have made her an inspiring figure for many in the LGBTQ+ community.

King Princess, whose real name is Mikaela Straus, is an American singer, songwriter, and producer. Born on December 19, 1998, in Brooklyn, New York, she began her musical career in her teenage years and quickly gained attention for her soulful vocals and introspective songwriting.

King Princess first gained recognition with her breakout single, “1950,” which was released independently in 2018. The song, inspired by the novel “The Price of Salt” by Patricia Highsmith, became an anthem for the LGBTQ+ community and showcased her ability to craft emotionally charged and captivating music.

Her music blends elements of pop, rock, and R&B, often incorporating themes of love, desire, and queer identity. King Princess’s lyrics are honest, vulnerable, and unapologetic, exploring topics such as relationships, self-discovery, and personal empowerment.

An obvious contender from rap is Young M.A, who is openly lesbian. Young M.A, whose real name is Katorah Marrero, is an American rapper and songwriter known for her explicit and confident lyrics. She gained significant attention in 2016 with her breakout single “Ooouuu,” which became a viral hit. Young M.A has been open about her sexual orientation and often incorporates her experiences as a lesbian into her music. She has been praised for her unapologetic approach and for being a prominent figure in the LGBTQ+ community.

This list would not be complete without our girl Romy from The XX. She’s now giving us epic dance tracks about women. This is absolutely something the lesbian scene needed, upbeat tracks. Romy is known for her distinct stage presence, captivating audiences with her powerful yet vulnerable performances. Over the years, she has collaborated with other artists, including contributing guest vocals to Jamie xx’s solo work and other musical projects outside of The xx.

Have you heard of Lava La Ru? Well, you’re about to very soon. We saw them perform at the BBC Music 6 festival this year. Born in London and real name Ava Laurel, they identify as a nonbinary lesbian and have released a great queer indie pop track called “Vest & Boxers”.

This list wouldn’t be complete without the enchanting hero that is Tash Sultana. We saw her at Brixton Academy, London back in 2017 and she was incredible. During the gig, she said over the mic, “if you’re homophobic, then get the f*ck out of my gig”. Ledge.

Tash Sultana is an Australian singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist known for their captivating performances and unique style. Tash was born on June 15, 1995, in Melbourne, Australia. They gained widespread recognition through their busking performances and the release of their viral video performance of the song “Jungle” in 2016.

Tash Sultana is a self-taught musician who plays a variety of instruments, including guitar, bass, drums, saxophone, trumpet, and more. They are known for their virtuosic skills on the guitar and their ability to create rich, layered soundscapes using looping pedals and effects.

The Impact of Lesbian Songs on the LGBTQ+ Community

Lesbian songs have a profound impact on the LGBTQ+ community. They provide a sense of validation and representation, fostering a feeling of belonging and acceptance. These songs serve as a reminder that queer experiences are valid, beautiful, and deserving of celebration. They also act as a source of inspiration, empowering individuals to embrace their true selves and live authentically.

Through music, lesbian artists and their songs have the power to challenge societal norms, break down barriers, and create positive change. They provide a platform for queer voices to be heard, raising awareness about the issues faced by the LGBTQ+ community. By sharing their stories and experiences through music, lesbian artists contribute to the ongoing fight for equality and acceptance.

Where to Discover New Lesbian Music

If you’re looking to discover new lesbian music, there are plenty of resources available. Online platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube offer curated playlists that feature lesbian artists and their songs. LGBTQ+ music festivals and events also provide opportunities to discover talented queer musicians. Be sure to sign up for our emails, as we interview new lesbian artists often.

Additionally, social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter allow you to connect with lesbian artists and stay up-to-date with their latest releases. By actively seeking out and supporting lesbian artists, you can contribute to their success and help create a more inclusive music industry.

Firstly check out our Spotify Playlist which we update on the regs.

In Summary…

Lesbian songs have the power to uplift, inspire, and connect individuals from all walks of life. From classic anthems to contemporary tracks, these bops celebrate the beauty of same-sex love and the resilience of the LGBTQ+ community. Through music, lesbian artists fearlessly express their queer identities and create art that resonates with millions. As we continue to celebrate diversity and strive for equality, let’s amplify the voices of lesbian artists and embrace the power of love and music. So get these tunes on, turn up the volume, and dance like nobody’s watching. But most importantly, support these artists by following them on Spotify, buying their music, and going to their gigs.

Be sure to let us know of any other mega tunes we’ve missed by commenting below.

Enjoy,

Nonchalant x

Last Updated on 16th November 2023 by Nonchalant Magazine