Queer music is a genre that emerged during the early days of gay liberation movement in America to promote LGBTQ+ rights through songwriting, performances, recordings, and radio shows. It was used as a tool for cultural memory because it created an archive of stories about queerness that could be passed down from generation to generation. Queer musicians used their songs to challenge social norms and taboos related to gender roles and sexuality which had been oppressive towards them throughout history. They also criticized existing power structures such as government institutions and mainstream media outlets that were responsible for perpetuating discrimination against queer people. Throughout these years, queer music has played a vital role in shaping queer identity formation by creating spaces where queers can express themselves freely without fear of judgment or violence. In this paper, I will discuss how queer music has functioned as a medium for cultural memory, political critique, and identity formation using examples from different eras.
In the 1960s and 1970s, queer musicians like The Velvet Underground, David Bowie, and Lou Reed challenged societal expectations regarding gender norms through their lyrics, costumes, and performance styles. They created music that celebrated non-conforming identities and pushed back against traditional notions of masculinity and femininity. Their lyrics were often filled with explicit references to sex, drugs, and rock 'n' roll, which helped normalize queer culture within broader society.
The iconic song "Walk on the Wild Side" by Lou Reed described his experiences with transgender prostitutes in New York City during that time period. This song was so popular that it became an anthem for many young queers who felt isolated because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
The 80s saw the rise of synthpop artists like Erasure and Bronski Beat who used electronic beats to create danceable songs that addressed topics related to AIDS activism and LGBTQ+ rights. Their music had an impact beyond just entertainment; it also served as a tool for political awareness raising. One example is Erasure's hit single "A Little Respect", which criticized homophobia and racism while celebrating love between two men. Another significant development during this era was the emergence of punk rock bands such as Green Day and Rancid who incorporated elements from hardcore punk into their sound. Punk music has been known for its DIY ethos, radical politics, and anti-establishment sentiments since its inception in the mid-70s. Queer punks used these values to challenge authority figures like police officers, politicians, religious leaders, etc., who oppressed them due to their nonconformity. The success of punk music paved way for other genres like grunge, emo, and alternative rock that continue to serve similar functions today.
Queer musicians have continued to use their work to address social issues affecting the community. Lady Gaga's "Born This Way" challenges discrimination based on appearance by promoting self-acceptance regardless of how you look or feel about yourself. Her song "Poker Face" addresses bisexuality head-on without shame or apology. Similarly, Frank Ocean's "Channel Orange" explores sexual fluidity through stories about falling in love with someone regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation. These artists show us that queer culture is becoming more mainstream every day but still needs support from allies willing to stand up against prejudice whenever it arises.
Queer music has served many purposes over time; from creating cultural memory to political critique, identity formation, and resistance movements. It continues to be an essential tool for expressing individual experiences within a larger context where we strive towards equality for all people regardless of race/ethnicity, class/caste, religion/belief system, sexual orientation/gender identity, age, physical ability, etc.