The Playlist: Six New Songs by Queer Artists to Listen to This Pride Month

Beyond being a time for donning colourful outfits and waving rainbow flags, Pride Month is an annual tradition that unites individuals to honour, support, and strongly push for the LGBTQIA+ community’s pursuit of equal rights. Since the historic Stonewall uprising in 1969, queer artists have always been at the forefront of music, showcasing diverse genres and eras to claim their rightful space in society.

In celebration of Pride Month 2023, The Beat Asia is taking a slight detour from our round-up of artists from the region with this selection of relatively new songs by LGBTQIA+ artists that deserve your all-out love and support from the world over.

‘Better Year’ by Lewloh

Singaporean folk artist Lewloh’s single, “Better Year,” serves as a contemplative reflection on the grief and struggles that humans often encounter in life: “Lost some friends along the way / But I made it to December / I really thought I’d make more memories / Let me fall into the fantasy.” Combining emotionally gripping lyrics, captivating musical arrangement, and ethereal vocals, this two-minute track provides solace in the face of losing a dear friend or a loved one.

Country: Singapore

Release date: Dec. 23, 2022

Listen here

‘I’m Not Here to Make Friends’ by Sam Smith

With lively pop sounds and stunning visuals to accompany that, Sam Smith brings a sprinkle of sass and colour to the Pride Month festivities. The Grammy-award-winning singer’s latest song, “I’m Not Here to Make Friends,” is a bold gay anthem that empowers the LGBTQIA+ community to fearlessly express how they want to be loved: “Everybody’s looking for somebody / For somebody to take home / I’m not the exception / I’m a blessing of a body to love on / ‘Cause I’m not here to make friends / I need a lover.”

Country: United States of America, United Kingdom

Release date: Jan. 27, 2023

Listen here

‘Cool About It’ by boygenius

Composed of openly queer musicians Phoebe Bridgers, Lucy Dacus, and Julien Baker, indie band boygenius’ latest folk song, “Cool About It,” confronts the intertwined issues of fading love and mental illness: “Once I took your medication to know what it’s like / And now I have to act like I can’t read your mind / I ask you how you’re doing and I let you lie / But we don’t have to talk about it.” If you have ever held onto a troubled relationship that you know will eventually come to an end, this three-minute track will shatter your heart.

Country: United States of America

Release date: March 31, 2023

Listen here

‘1, 2, 3, I Love You Baby’ by Kai Mata

Indonesian singer Kai Mata’s “1, 2, 3, I Love You Baby” evokes the charm of ‘70s folk novelty tunes that will instantly transport you back in time. Delving into the realms of love and infatuation, this catchy record is perfect for those who are either experiencing the magic of falling in love for the first time, or rediscovering it after a long while: “And then the day you truly saw me / You took my hand / Was it a sign? / The world was still / My heart was racing / The shivers ran across my spine.”

Country: Indonesia

Release date: April 7, 2023

Listen here

‘Ride 4 Me’ by Marina Summers

Some songs are made for hitting the beach, while others are meant for lovemaking. “Drag Race Philippines” alumna Marina Summers’ newly released track, “Ride 4 Me,” falls into the latter category. Infusing elements of hip-hop and trap music with daring lyricism, this sexy record will make you bop your hips in no time: “Never met a man like you / Never ever have I find a guy this good / Got me on my knees yeah through and through / You keep me falling and trippin’ for you.”

Country: Philippines

Release date: April 21, 2023

Listen here

‘Alone’ by Kim Petras

Transgender rights advocate and singer Kim Petras has come a long way since the release of her record-breaking 2018 pop anthem, “Heart to Break.” In her recent project titled “Alone,” the 30-year-old discusses her desire for love and highlights the importance of cherishing every single moment with your beau: “Tell me now, don’t hesitate / You got one chance, baby / Don’t let the moment slip away / I’ve been tryna give it to you all night / What’s it gonna take to get you all alone?”

Country: United States of America

Release date: May 24, 2023

Listen here