BY: Zaniah Boykin
Published 3 months ago
The 2025 Grammy Awards had no shortage of iconic moments, but LGBTQIA+ artists stole the show in every possible way. It is important and impactful that these artists are open about their sexual identities and incorporate that into their talent, as it helps others, especially young people, feel affirmed. They are not only surviving in the music industry but thriving. Their pride and unapologetic authenticity contribute to greater representation and visibility. Here are four LGBTQIA+ performers from the 67th Annual GRAMMYs Awards in 2025.
1.Doechii
Doechii, the most-nominated female rapper of the night, snagged Best Rap Album for her fire 2024 mixtape, “Alligator Bites Never Heal.” Then, she shut it down with a jaw-dropping performance of “Catfish” and “Denial Is a River,” earning a social media shoutout from the legendary Dionne Warwick, who simply put it: “Doechii is a star.”
But Doechii wasn’t just there to collect trophies and drop bangers; she made sure to use her platform to speak up. Rocking a custom Thom Browne fit, she stopped on the red carpet to chat with GLAAD correspondent Chrishelle Stause. When asked what she wanted more of in the music industry, she didn’t hesitate: “I want to see more queer artists. And more alligators.” While we probably won’t see swamp creatures spitting bars anytime soon, she made a solid point. Representation isn’t just important; it’s necessary.
2. Charli XCX
Charli XCX also came through with a night to remember. Just a week after scoring eight Grammy nominations, she introduced herself to “Saturday Night Live” viewers with her signature wit: “For those of you who recognize me, you might know me from my album “BRAT.” But don’t worry if you don’t — there’s nothing wrong with being straight.”
At the Grammy Awards, she kept that same energy. Right before Beyoncé’s historic “Cowboy Carter” win, Charli took the stage with a chaotic, club-ready medley of “Von Dutch” and “Guess.” Making Grammy history, she literally made it rain underwear. With her It Girl crew and collaborators by her side, she didn’t just perform; she owned the moment, reminding everyone why she’s leading the charge in today’s pop revolution.
3. Janelle Monáe
Monáe brought the nostalgia with a stunning tribute to Quincy Jones. Dressed in a slick tux, silver socks, and loafers, she nailed a performance of “Don’t Stop ’til You Get Enough,” paying homage to Michael Jackson’s legendary style. But Monáe being Monáe, she had to put her own spin on it — ripping off her jacket mid-set to reveal a bold “I Heart QJ” tee. Iconic.
4. Billie Eilish
Eilish kept things sentimental with a heartfelt performance of “Birds of a Feather.” Repping her hometown with a Dodgers cap, she ended her set with an emotional “I love you, L.A.,” a nod to the city recently hit hard by wildfires. With a backdrop of the San Gabriel Mountains and Eaton Canyon — places she grew up exploring — her set felt like a love letter to the past.
From powerful statements to unforgettable performances, the 2025 Grammy Awards were a whole moment. Music isn’t just about sound; it’s about impact, and these artists proved once again that they’re here to shake things up, inspire change, and remind everyone why representation matters.
What was your favorite performance from an artist who is part of the LGBTQIA community? Comment below:
