80s gay singers

This song was out when I was closeted, but having my first encounter, so it holds a near-and-dear placement in my heart.

In the 80s, Midler’s dynamic performances and larger-than-life personality made her a beloved entertainer, while her activism and support for the LGBTQ+ community solidified her status as a champion for equality.

Midler’s career began in the gay bathhouses of New York City, where she developed a loyal following among gay men. Fierstein's unapologetic approach to his identity and his art made him a trailblazer in an industry that was often reluctant to address LGBTQ+ issues.

In addition to his theatrical contributions, Fierstein has been an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights in the public sphere.

Rob Halford: The Metal God and LGBTQ+ Trailblazer

Rob Halford, the iconic lead singer of Judas Priest, broke new ground in the heavy metal world by coming out as gay in 1998. He looked like he’d be absent from filming to start his very own chapter of a Madonna fan club. Fierstein's activism extends beyond his work, as he continually champions equality and fights for the rights of marginalized communities.

Harvey Fierstein’s legacy as a theatrical trailblazer and LGBTQ+ advocate is enduring.

Her work is richly introspective and trailblazing.

Michael Stipe
The R.E.M. His honesty and openness about his sexuality helped to break down barriers and challenge the stigma surrounding being gay, particularly for men in the public eye.

Michael's advocacy extended beyond his personal revelations.

Would “Club Tropicana” emerge triumphant? His music celebrates self-worth and queer joy with infectious beats and fierce lyrics.

Shea Diamond
A Black trans woman with a powerhouse voice, Shea Diamond creates songs rooted in survival and resilience. Her songs and style made her one of the first visible LGBTQIA+ figures in American music.

Madonna
Madonna’s decades-long advocacy for LGBTQIA+ rights, her love for queer dancers, and her outspoken fight against AIDS stigma have made her one of the most powerful allies in pop.

Marc Almond
As half of Soft Cell, Marc Almond gave synthpop a seductive and subversive queer edge.

Uh, yeah. His refusal to be boxed in was a lesson in freedom.

Rob Halford
As the frontman of Judas Priest, Rob Halford shattered metal stereotypes when he came out in 1998. Oh, and Fred Schneider expressed his desire to “explore the caves of the unknown.” Hmm, that’s queer.

Fun Fact: The next year, Schneider released the solo single “Monster,” and the video has an appearance by Keith Haring. 

Bonnie Tyler, “Total Eclipse of the Heart” (1983)

Definitely one of the weirdest videos I ever deposited into the spank bank repertoire of my youth.

He’s also being fanned by a shirtless man and his eyeliner is on point, as are his over-exaggerated bitchy mannerisms! His love songs, filled with longing and elegance, have resonated deeply with queer fans.

Ma Rainey
The “Mother of the Blues” sang boldly about her love for women in the 1920s. If you, or someone you know, experiences a burning sensation, please contact your doctor immediately, if not sooner. 

And it’s no wonder she drives away in a car previously piloted by her male co-star, at video’s end.

He seemed both out of place and in the right place at the same time in my teenage eyes. 

Fun Fact: Joel considers the song as being “hopeful” regarding the plight of the unemployed steel workers. Her fearless self-expression and commitment to humanitarian causes have inspired generations to fight for equality and embrace their true selves.

9.

As in yearning to be “the empress of fashion” and “the captain of the Enterprise.” The former was achieved with Cindy Wilson’s Judy Jetson-inspired ensemble, plus Ricky Wilson’s and Keith Strickland’s flying saucer-shaped hats in pink and white, respectively.

There is also an odd The Brady Bunch quality to their dance number done in the spirit of campiness and not of general lack of rhythm (I’m looking at you Jan and Peter!).

He remains a symbol of resilience and a pioneer for LGBTQ+ rights, inspiring countless individuals to live authentically and boldly.

2. Her albums, including "Nightclubbing" and "Slave to the Rhythm," showcased her innovative approach to music and her willingness to push boundaries. From the flamboyant performances of Freddie Mercury to the fearless activism of Larry Kramer, these celebrities not only entertained us but also played crucial roles in advancing LGBTQ+ visibility and acceptance.

His refusal to conform to societal expectations and his embrace of his true self served as a beacon of hope for many LGBTQ+ individuals who were struggling to find acceptance.

One of Mercury’s most significant contributions was bringing attention to the AIDS crisis, a devastating epidemic that disproportionately affected the LGBTQ+ community.

I mean, I would have.

Fun Fact: Sir Elton met Renate Blauel  while recording his 1983 comeback album Too Low for Zero, on which “I’m Still Standing” was featured and they married the following year while he was on tour in Australia. 

Madonna, “Burning Up” (1983)

This was a difficult choice!

However, it was her openness about her sexuality that truly set her apart.