It seems like a decade since anyone attended a live music concert. God! We miss going out, don’t we? Everyone’s feeling nostalgic about the pre-pandemic freedom. But there’s little need to feel blue. What if we can't attend any live shows; there are always new artists and tracks on the horizon (and of course, how can we forget e-concerts and music streaming!).

Firmbee.com/Unsplash | During the pandemic, music streaming apps provided the much-needed respite to people feeling low

Music has always been such an integral part of our lives. It brings us solace, joy, and transports us to a happy place. If that’s the case with you and you're a big music lover just like us, here’s some good news – the year 2021 has a lot of exciting stuff in store for you. Get ready ‘cuz this year’s going to be awesome with the latest albums curated by upcoming LGBTQ talents.

Here are some of our favorite LGBTQ artists you must watch out for in the year 2021.

Wafia

Often revolving around the radar, Wafia Al-Rikabi (popularly known as Wafia) is an Aussie singer and songwriter, someone you definitely need to check out ASAP! Her amazing dance-pop numbers and smooth choruses are enough reasons to get invested in her music. The 27-year-old is famous for her R&B, Electronica, and soothing vocals that bring out her clean musical style.

Mercedes Mehling/Unsplash | Unusual and soothing music by LGBTQ artists rose up as a new wave of calm and energy during this time

Baby Queen

She’s witty, intellectual, and slick pop – ain’t that an impressive combination!  Within no time, she has become a staple when it comes to pop music. The London-based pop artist has a quarrelsome relationship with the digital world; nonetheless, she’s blessed us with some amazing tracks along her journey. Popularly known by her stage name ''Baby Queen'', Bella Latham's music will make you go crazy.

Dua Saleh

A songwriter, poet, and soon-to-be actor, Saleh's portfolio is definitely an interesting catch. The Sudanese-American artist has pushed the conventional music boundaries in her extraordinary style. It's not often that you come across a non-binary Muslim artist breaking the stereotypes and rewriting her own. More power to you girl! If you want to experience her lyrical prowess, you must check out ROSETTA EP. It speaks volumes about her personality.

Cavetown

Robin Skinner, aka cavetown (cool stage name, eh?), is not a new name when it comes to the music industry. The singer escalated to fame with some mind-blowing and memorable songs and viral collaborations, one of which featured upcoming artist Sophie Dyson. After growing a decent fan base across social media, they released their debut album, Sleepyhead, in the year 2020, and it was a huge success.

Harry Quan/Unsplash | LGBTQ artists too found music as a fantastic medium for expressing themselves and connecting to the world

To wrap it up

To say that the past year was definitely a tough one won't be an understatement; a pandemic, widespread environmental breakdown, extreme politics, and whatnot. It was nothing less than a nightmare. But the LGBTQ community has always been a ray of hope, inspiration, power, and change in adversity, and their music is no different. Let's support these new and amazing talents so that they bring more light into our lives. Don’t forget to share your favorite among these artists with us. Happy pride month!