The Next Wave of Queer Hip-Hop: 12 Upcoming Legendary Children
In 2012, Pitchfork wrote up an extensive article heralding a new wave of queer hip-hop. Featuring insightful interviews with artists Mykki Blanco, Le1f, and Zebra Katz, the piece somewhat rightfully anticipated the beginning of a movement, despite ignoring an older generation of LGBT rappers like Yo! Majesty, Cazwell, Gravy Train!!!!, and a handful of other rap and electroclash superstars. Even before the post was published, the artists featured in the piece had been dismissive of grouping together gay rappers (or, conversely, putting them against each other). They claimed that while they’re all on good terms, their disparate art hardly amounts to a “scene” or subculture: “I’m not trying to be competing with my friends based on their race and sexuality,” said Le1f to Pitchfork. “The whole ‘room for one’ mentality is homophobic… if the world is ready for a gay rapper, then they’re ready for multiple gay rappers. If we were straight, no one would be comparing us.”
That being said, a handful of queer artists working in and around hip-hop music have gone on to semi-mainstream success. Mykki Blanco, Le1f, and Brooke Candy have since been signed to major labels. Big Freedia has gotten her own reality television show. Zebra Katz has become a rather well-known fashion icon after his song “Ima Read” was featured in a Rick Owens show. DJ MikeQ (a prolific ballroom beatmaker) has toured the globe, schooling the world on vogue music. Angel Haze is a regular topic of gossip columns. And, Azealia Banks is, well, Azealia Banks.
Gay rap isn’t “over” now that these artists have succeeded, nor was it ever really “a thing” to begin with. LGBT artists of all colors, shapes, and sizes have always made music and will continue to emerge in the hip-hop world. Now, we’re looking at 12 newer, up-and-coming legendary children and some of the older stars finally getting the recognition they deserve.
The 12 Artists to Look Out For:
- Stose
- Cakes Da Killa
- Big Momma
- Kevin Jz Prodigy
- Big Dipper
- Contessa Stuto
- Junglepussy
- Katey Red
- Chapman
- Dai Burger
- Sissy Nobby
- Jonte’ Moaning
Words by Eric Shorey
source: mtviggy
