Reading Time: 21 min read

Give Me 15 Striking L, G, B, T, Q, I, A, 2S Songs (2025) [📷: Brent Faulkner / The Musical Hype; Kampus Production, Pavel Danilyuk, Polina Tankilevitch, RDNE Stock project, SHVETS production from Pexels; AcatXIo, All_CC0_Public_domain, OpenClipart-Vectors from Pixabay; Alexander Grey, Jas Rolyn on Unsplash, Lynette Nantongo on Unsplash]Give Me 15 Striking L, G, B, T, Q, I, A, 2S Songs features songs by Cole Redding, Domo Wilson, Gia Woods, Ryan Cassata, RYANN, and The Irrepressibles.            

Inclusivity > exclusivity.  Unfortunately, not everyone feels the same way 👎.  Some people agree with hurting particular groups in society (*cough, Republicans), particularly the LGBTQ+ community. As I have, and always will, preach, LGBTQ+ musicians have a safe space on my inclusive music blog/website. To celebrate the community I’m passionate about, I have compiled a playlist based on the extended acronym, LGBTQIA2S+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, Intersex, Asexual/Aromantic, Two Spirit, etc.).

LGBTQIA2S+ is a lengthy acronym that covers a lot of ground. Unfortunately, not every letter gets the same coverage.  Some of the letters only have a few songs to represent them (looking at you, asexual and Two Spirit), which is a bummer.  But, Give Me 15 Striking L, G, B, T, Q, I, A, 2S Songs has a little something for everybody within the community. Give Me 15 Striking L, G, B, T, Q, I, A, 2S Songs features songs by Cole Redding, Domo Wilson, Gia Woods, Ryan Cassata, RYANN, and The Irrepressibles.  So, without further ado, get your Pride flags ready to wave along with Give Me 15 Striking L, G, B, T, Q, I, A, 2S Songs!


~ Table of Contents ~ 

1. Gia Woods, “Lesbionic” 2. Cole Redding, “Gay Americana” 3. Domo Wilson, “Bisexual Anthem”
4. Evan Greer & Ryan Cassata, “Protect Trans Kids (WTFIWWY)” 5. Lazarus Lynch, “Black Queer Anthem” 6. Leith Ross, “We’ll Never Have Sex”
7. TONY ENOS, “Two Spirit” 8. Criko e’ Malta, “LESBIAN AND WEIRD BUT SLAY – Interlude” (Ft. Big Pussy, Emily Montes & Lovely Peaches) 9. RYANN, “Gay Struggles”
10. Mad Tsai, “Boy Bi” 11. Against Me, “Transgender Dysphoria Blues” 12. Ryan Cassata, “Queer Love Outlaw”
13. Okay Kaya, “Asexual Wellbeing” 14. Eli, “GAY MAN” 15. The Irrepressibles, “What I Am! Queer”

 


1. Gia Woods, “Lesbionic”

Heartbreak County, Vol. 2  (EP) » Elle » 2022

Gia Woods, Heartbreak County, Vol. 2 (EP) [📷: Elle]

“My lips 💋, my body, my hips, so naughty / You stare 👀, you want it, you’re there, so watch me.”
Oh, snap, Gia Woods! The Los Angeles-based 📍 Persian American pop musician continues, “Hey girls, no fighting, no kiss, just biting / It’s not iconic, it’s Lеsbionic.” Woo! If the lyrics and the song title, “Lesbionic”, didn’t give it away, yes, Woods is a proud lesbian 👩‍❤️👩. She makes it loud and clear on the hella energetic, fun, and infectious “Lesbionic, le-le-lesbionic, les!” “Lesbionic” is the fourth track from her 2022 EP, Heartbreak County, Vol. 2. She co-wrote the track with Alexandra Veltri, Dallas Caton, and Miles Comaskey, while Jawn Legend and Dallas Caton produced it.

Gia Woods, Lesbionic [📷: Elle]The production is sleek. This is the expectation for a gay, dance-club track. Anything else would be utterly unacceptable! The beat thumps, the bass pumps, and the synths sizzle. Woo! A high-energy Woods exhibits attitude and personality, selling those lesbionic ways like a champ! In the verse, she drops a few Italian 🇮🇹 bars. Roughly translated, Woods asks, “Ooh, you wanna fuck? / No 🚫 boys, come party /Drink Campari.” Oh, snap 🫰! Sex, no boys – it’s giving L-E-S-B-I-O-N-I-C! In the bridge, Woods continues to celebrate the lesbians, singing, “All around the world, all the girls, so fantastic / Maybe you can’t tell by my nails I’m a sapphic.” Word. It’s giving Sappho of Lesbos! The sapphic reference fits, particularly with Greece 📍 and Lesbos 📍 being referenced in the verse (“Namo a Grecia / Lesbos, you betcha”). No boys may be allowed, but everybody in the LGBTQ+ community (+ the heteros, too) can vibe to this surefire bop! “Lesbionic” slays 💅!

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2. Cole Redding, “Gay Americana”

“Gay Americana” » Cole Redding » 2024 

Cole Redding, Gay Americana [📷: Cole Redding]

“Shy boy with too many secrets / I know what it’s like to be him.”
In an Instagram post, Cole Redding describes “Gay Americana” as the song he wished he had growing up gay. In an earlier IG post, promoting the song, he captions the cover art as “MY WHOLE HEART. The scared, shy, self-hating 13-year-old me is real proud.” The handsome, talented pop musician released an authentic and moving anthem. He penned “Gay Americana” with Stephan Santa Teresa and Rachel Kennedy. “Gay Americana” thrives for many reasons with songwriting and inclusivity topping the list.  Redding advises this gay young man, “Promise it won’t make the world end / If you say you don’t want a girlfriend.”  This is one example of the freedom exhibited by the songwriting.  Don’t box yourself into the heteronormative world – be who you want to be and live true. In “Gay Americana,” “You can be anything you wanna.” Redding offers up so many meaningful, inclusive thoughts, including:

“Put the stars and stripes

On a rainbow flag 🏳️‍🌈

And we’ll fight for love

Cause it’s all we have

We were born this way

And they can’t change that

No, we won’t go back.”

Beyond the songwriting and theme, the musicianship is turned up. Redding sings beautifully and easily on this uplifting pop joint.  He’s authentic, selling the text superbly. The melodies are tuneful, particularly when he celebrates gay Americana in all its liberating glory. The instrumental is fire, incorporating the sheen of modern pop with some classic music cues.  “Gay Americana” is a great addition to any Pride 🏳️‍🌈 list. It’s also an inclusive pop song that everybody needs to hear.

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3. Domo Wilson, “Bisexual Anthem”

Chapter 25: Dominique » Domo Wilson » 2019

Domo Wilson, Chapter 25: Domonique [📷: Domo Wilson]

“I like girls, I like guys / I like to eat the pussy then again I like to ride,”
 Domo Wilson raps in the pre-chorus of her “Bisexual Anthem”. She continues, proudly (and bisexually), “Yeah, I love kissing on girls and then I put the dick inside / I’m bisexual, bitch, and I ain’t got nothing to hide.” Facts, Domo! Continue to be a proud bisexual! “Bisexual Anthem” appears on her 2019 album, Chapter 25: Dominique, and concludes her 2020 album, Domo vs Domonique.

The pre-chorus whetted our palettes. In the chorus, the centerpiece, Domo continues to embrace her bi-ness in the face of bi-erasure! 

“…Better not forget the B in LGBT

And y’all like to say we selfish, yeah, y’all say we like to cheat

But I don’t date both at the same time, haters, have a seat

I like girls, oh my Gosh, big booty, big tits

I like guys too though, super sexy, big dick…”

For whatever reason, it is hard for folks to comprehend that a person, man or woman, can be attracted to both.  Domo Wilson does a fine job of breaking down her preferences bluntly.  In the first verse, she spits, “If I wanna date a girl and we don’t work out, then it’s cool / Sexuality is fluid, it’s okay to date a dude / And if I date a fuckin’ guy and we break up / It’s okay to date a pretty girl, ain’t no fake love.” The second verse brings more of the same, with spelling! “B-I to the S-E-X-U-A / It’s a L if you hating on me, bitch, I slay 💅 / No, I am not gay, and no, I am not straight / I’m the B in this bitch, bi pride all day.” Backed by sleek, minor key, synth-driven musical accompaniment, Domo eats on “Bisexual Anthem” and leaves no crumbs! Also, worth noting, Wilson unleashed “Bi Pride” on Domo vs Domonique, too!

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4. Evan Greer & Ryan Cassata, “Protect Trans Kids (WTFIWWY)”

Protect Trans Kids (WTFIWWY)” » Get Better » 2025

Evan Greer & Ryan Cassata, Protect Trans Kids (WTFIWWY) [📷: Get Better]

“Transgender people under the age of 18 face laws that ban gender-affirming care / In 25 states, half the country / Just a few years ago, not a single state had such a law.”
Evan Greer  (she/her/they/them) and Ryan Cassata (he/him) do their damnedest to be a voice for trans kids on Protect Trans Kids (WTFIWWY). As the spoken word intro informs, the legislation working against trans kids is alarming.  It feels like they are being ‘piled on’ and persecuted.  Greer and Cassata are having none of the trans kid hate on this sub-minute-and-a-half-long call to action.  They, along with so many of us, want to know, what the fuck is wrong with you?

The chorus, the most important section of “Protect Trans Kids,” is simple but highly effective.  “Leave them alone, leave them alone / What the fuck is wrong with you?” Why bother them or restrict access to gender-affirming care? Why is that the government’s call? In the verse, trans kids deserve rights, too! Some of the highlights of the only verse include “Let ‘em play sports,” one of the hot-button issues, and “Let them take a fucking piss / Without you all up in their fucking business.” Trans bathroom bills and the debate about gender-neutral bathrooms have long riled up conservatives and more narrow-minded folks.  Anything that involves trans kids at school seems to create a stir, which is not fair to the child.  In the outro, more relevant points are made. “Can transgender kids just live?” The answer should be a resounding hell yes, but the journey seems to be getting more difficult instead of easier.  Also, we seem to forget, “They’re just fucking kids.” Yep, by all means. On the noisy, punk-driven “Protect Trans Kids (WTFIWWY)”, Evan Greer and Ryan Cassata preach to the choir – PROTECT THEM! The next step is moving the needle – getting to a place where trans kids are treated with dignity and respect, not scrutiny.

 

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5. Lazarus Lynch, “Black Queer Anthem”

“Black Queer Anthem” » Lazarus Lynch » 2021

Lazarus Lynch, "Queer Black Anthem" [📷: Lazarus Lynch]Lazarus Lynch is fearless. More people should have the fearlessness and bravery of this self-described black gay artist, intellectual, and activist. A prime example of his fearlessness is his assertive, bold single, “Black Queer Anthem”. The title alone is enough to make conservatives, homophobes, and racists cringe in sheer ire. I’m pretty sure Lynch is like, ‘bring it on.’“Black Queer Anthem” runs just two minutes and change, but that is ample time for Lynch to share both black and queer pride alike. Honestly, it is an intriguing listen that latches instantly. The vocals are distorted intentionally, adding a gritty tone to support Lazarus’ cause – a thoughtful musical, activist move. Furthermore, the production is anchored by hard, pummeling drums that scream and incite a march for justice. The groove is enough to feel this track, sparking body movement but also passion. Lyrically, Lynch keeps it repetitive and simple, constructing a surefire vibe, call for action, and empowering the black, queer army. Hopefully, allies join the cause as well, as Lazarus is preaching good stuff.     

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6. Leith Ross, “We’ll Never Have Sex”

“We’ll Never Have Sex” » Republic » 2022
“Oh, you kissed me just to kiss me / Not too make me cry.”
With a song title like “We’ll Never Have Sex,” our minds are programmed to think that there is an unquenched thirst that will remain unquenched.  Honestly, that’s not the case in the least.  If anything, Canadian singer/songwriter Leith Ross is more fulfilled than ever.  They are more fulfilled thanks to a legitimate, healthy relationship that’s not built on sex.  “We’ll Never Have Sex” might sound like it’s going to be negative before listening to it, but check out the lyrics and listen, and the reward is far greater than the perceived lack of pleasure.  Leith Ross has found healing on this short but potent ballad. Their new lover is authentic, something that’s been missing in the past.  “Depollute me, pretty baby / Suck the rot right out of my bloodstream,” Ross sings in the first verse.  In the second, Ross addresses the lack of sex, highlighting how authentic and real this person is: “If I said you could never touch me / You’d come over and say I looked lovely.” That’s awesome!  In the final verse, Ross invites them to “Come and kiss me, pretty baby / Like we’ll never have sex.” The song is incredibly sweet, thoughtful to the nth degree.  It encompasses asexuality, queerness, queer relationships, and healing from trauma.

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7. Tony Enos, “Two Spirit”

10 » Anthony R Enos III » 2019

Tony Enos, 10 [📷: Anthony R Enos III]

“Don’t let the things that they say get to you.”
Amen!  To reiterate, LGBTQIA2S+ is a lengthy acronym.  It covers a lot of ground, too.  Musically, some letters receive more attention than others, particularly the L and the G. The 2S, which stands for Two Spirit, is much more difficult to find a soundtrack for, unfortunately. However, gay, Two Spirit, Native American (Cherokee) musician, Tony Enos (he/him), composed and recorded the song, “Two Spirit”, and accompanying music video that celebrates Two Spirit ancestors, present Two Spirit leaders, and future Two Spirit leaders. Describing his song, Enos adds, It’s ‘a song for the movement, welcoming Two Spirits from all Nations back into the sacred hoop.’

“Two Spirit” sounds celebratory, enthusiastic, and exuberant from the beginning. It’s anchored by an awesome percussive groove, drum programming, and bright, danceable synths. Liberated, the instrumental, as well as Enos’ vocals, reflect such.  The vibes are positive and uplifting – no sadness or depression to be found here! “Listen up, ancients / It’s a new day,” Enos sings proudly, continuing, “Love is here to stay / And there’s no room for hate.” I co-sign that! Adding to the relentless positivity, Enos highlights, “Two spirits / With one heart / One Love… / We’re all different, but the same,” and caps it off with the celebratory, “Celebrate me / Celebrate you.” 💪. A dynamic song released on National Coming Out Day 2015, appearing on Enos’ 2019 album, 10, “Two Spirit” is a must-hear anthem that celebrates members of the Two Spirit community and sincerely preaches inclusivity and love.

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8. Criko e’ Malta, “LESBIAN AND WEIRD BUT SLAY – Interlude” (Ft. Big Pussy, Emily Montes & Lovely Peaches)

CHOCHA PODRIDA » Flow Teta » 2025

Criko e’ Malta, CHOCHA PODRIDA [📷: Flow Teta]Puerto Rico-based artist Criko e’ Malta brings uniqueness to this Give Me 15 Striking L, G, B, T, Q, I, A, 2S Songs playlist.  The song, “LESBIAN AND WEIRD BUT SLAY – Interlude,” runs under two minutes in duration. Although brief, that is a sufficient amount of time for Criko e’ Malta, Big Pussy, Emily Montes, and Lovely Peaches to engage in a one-of-a-kind, pro-lesbian listening experience. The electro-tinged production is striking, with distinct keys and synths, and anchored by a hard-hitting beat.  As ear-catching as the instrumental is, the vocals, filled with effects, and lyrics stand out the most. So, what specific lesbian experience is captured in “LESBIAN AND WEIRD BUT SLAY – Interlude?” Sucking pussy (cunnilingus). 👀 Yes, you read correctly 😏.  A prime example of this sexual experience: “I don’t know / How life would go / If Criko didn’t suck my pussy / Cause it feels so good / To be sucked by a girl.” Noted.  Uniquely, Grimes and Elon Musk, who previously dated and have three children, are mentioned:

“I left Elon for you, baby

And I won’t get you pregnant, I swear, baby

Your pussy will be intact

…I don’t have a breeding kink like Elon

And I wanna take care of you

Cuz I like fucking weird things and you’re weird.”

The non-pregnancy should be obvious… Also, as described by the lyrics, Grimes is weird, which is a huge part of her appeal.  But, there you have it! “LESBIAN AND WEIRD BUT SLAY – Interlude” is a surefire vibe!

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9. RYANN, “Gay Struggles”

“Gay Struggles” » RYANN » 2024

RYANN, Gay Struggles [📷: RYANN]

“I want to live in a town filled with Troye and Olivia fans / ‘Cause I’m afraid to hold my boyfriend’s hand when I go on the streets.”
Fear is a terrible thing.  Unfortunately, it is part of the struggles that Dutch queer pop singer/songwriter RYANN (Ryan Adriaens) sings about in “Gay Struggles”.  He adds that he doesn’t want to get too close to male friends because they may think he has a crush on them.  The internalized homophobia is pronounced, making “Gay Struggles” a heavy but relatable listen. Adriaens has settled for less when he shouldn’t have to.  He’s grateful to love a boy, but he still feels trapped as a gay male.

“These struggles shouldn’t exist

All my life I was trained to kill the person that I was born to be

I don’t allow myself to have some fun ‘cause I don’t even know what I, what I truly want.”

Sad, but true for many LGBTQ+ individuals.  Being able to love the same sex is a win, but, the perks that heterosexual couples have aren’t always afforded to queer couples. Straight men can move differently than gay men. Beyond the chorus, which RYANN sings exquisitely, he offers more struggles.  The fear of wearing an earring.  Worrying what others, including friends, think.  He wants to live out and proud, but it’s hard not to worry “about what other people think… when all I see are couples on the news getting punished for who they really are.”  It should be fine to kiss his boyfriend in the street but, “I feel like I’m not allowed.” “Gay Struggles” is a beautiful, moving pop ballad by RYANN.  This is a song not only for the LGBTQ+ community but for everyone.  No one should be persecuted or treated badly just because of who they love or living true to themselves.  This youngster from The Netherlands with an incredible voice outdid himself on this song.  Bravo!

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10. Mad Tsai, “Boy Bi”

homecoming! (EP) » Mad Tsai » 2022

Mad Tsai, Homecoming (EP) [📷: Mad Tsai]

“So, do you like girls or do you like boys?”
Believe it or not, not everybody in the world is straight – mind blowing 🤯 isn’t it? Perhaps if you are hypermasculine, or obviously, date plenty of girls, you can eschew questions regarding sexuality (“I’m too gay for girls, too straight for drag queens”). Speaking from experience, if you don’t fit the mold, people want to know. Anyways, Mad Tsai addresses his sexuality on the cleverly titled “Boy Bi”, which was released as a single in 2020.  Ultimately, it appears on Tsai’s 2022 EP, homecoming!.  Following the intro where he is asked about sexual preference, Tsai proceeds to open up about his identity.

“When my friends ask me ‘bout my sexuality / I choke up and joke that the answers not easy,”
he asserts in the first verse, adding, “Like I’m watching a Disney movie and the couple gets it on / but who should I look at, is it Shang or Mulan.” Clearly, Tsai acknowledges being a boy that is bi, hence the title.  In the chorus, he playfully confirms, “Like boy bi / Girl, hi / New guy / I’m bi? / I cray every time / I try to decide.” Give Mad Tsai credit for his transparency regarding bisexuality.  Mad Tsai, Boy Bi [📷: Mad Tsai]The second verse find him being even more vulnerable, asserting, that “I’m bi just without the sexual / I’m too scared to date so I’ve just been by myself.” Aww 😢. Identity issues run deeper than just bare bones sexual identity as one can feel like they don’t even fit within the group they’re supposed to.  Tsai says it best when he states that “Love can be so hard / For someone who doesn’t know what they want.” Although it is a short record, “Boy Bi” is a fun, sweet, and thoughtful pop single.  Mad Tsai sings well and comes off incredibly authentic.

 

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11. Against Me, “Transgender Dysphoria Blues”

Transgender Dysphoria Blues » Total Treble » 2014

Against Me!, Transgender Dysphoria Blues [📷: Total Treble]

“You want them to see you / Like they see every other girl / They just see a faggot / They hold their breath not to catch the sick.”
That is a personal, powerful set of lyrics Laura Jane Grace [she/her] sings in the pre-chorus of “Transgender Dysphoria Blues”. In those lyrics, Grace paints a portrait of how she’s viewed as a transgender ⚧️ woman.  Often, when people don’t agree or understand something, they are quick to cry foul and condemn it, which is unfortunate.  Notably, the frontwoman of Against Me! came out publicly as trans in 2012.  Transgender Dysphoria Blues, released in 2014, marked her first album as Laura Jane Grace.  The title track, as well as other songs, capture her experience.

“Rough surf on the coast

I wish I could have spent the whole day alone

Rough surf on the coast

I wish I could have spent the whole day alone with you.”

The keyword is alone, and it seems to capture the isolation and the desire to be left alone – not abused, bullied, or criticized because she’s trans. “Transgender Dysphoria Blues” commences the album energetically. Grace delivers blunt lyrics.  This is her account regarding being transgender.  Her brutal honesty pays off. For us, unfamiliar with the trans experience, she has us imagine taking a walk in her shoes. “Your tells are so obvious / shoulders too broad for a girl,” she sings in the first verse. In the second, she adds, “You’ve got no cunt in your strut / You’ve got no hips to shake / And you know it’s obvious / But we can’t choose how we’re made.” A heavy listening, perhaps a trigger from some, Laura Jane Grace does a masterful job on “Transgender Dysphoria Blues” of expressing her feelings and speaking her truth.  A decade later, this song and album are as powerful as ever.

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12. Ryan Cassata, “Queer Love Outlaw”

Greetings from Echo Park » Kill Rock Stars » 2025

Ryan Cassata, Greetings From Echo Park [📷: Kill Rock Stars]

“Oh, this queer love feels like home / This queer love feels like mine / Just right.”
As it should, Ryan Cassata. Of course, haters are gonna hate, namely conservatives, homophobes, and narrow-minded folks 😏.  Progressives and open-minded folks have far more fun… tolerance… acceptance… inclusivity… Anyways, despite the myopic yapping by judgmental folks, characterizing Ryan and other nonbinary, queer, and/or trans musicians as ‘unholy,’ ‘Godless love,’ and ‘Something corrupt,’ he embraces being a “Queer Love Outlaw”.  An acoustic version of the song was released in 2021, with the studio version released in 2023. “Queer Love Outlaw” ultimately appears on his 2025 album, Greetings from Echo Park.  With his authentic and sincere singing, and a fantastic backdrop, led by those epic-sounding guitars, “Queer Love Outlaw” rocks 🤘!

In the second verse, Ryan Cassata counters the damned to hell arguments, singing, “I’ve already been.” Amazingly, so many people don’t see that hell endured by queer folks that he speaks of, particularly from the T(s) in LGBTQ+. Furthermore, Ryan speaks of the harsh critiques and words, that ultimately, “This pain has made me wiser, and I swear I’m better.” 👏 👏 👏! In the chorus, he asserts proudly, “I’d rather be a rebel for romance / Than please your beliefs.” Now that deserves a resounding AMEN! HALLELUJAH! Adding to his queer story, Ryan mentions “Scars on my chest,” and the fact that “We shave our head,” both significant parts of the trans experience.  The bridge, excerpted above, perfectly captures pride in the queer experience, instead of doom, damnation, fire and brimstone, and perhaps, most egregious, ultra-conservative, myopic views. Yuck 🤢🤮! The ending is particularly grand, as Cassata beams with pride singing, “Oh, all my friends are outlaws / And all my friends are in love.” Cassata delivered a meaningful, queer-affirming gem with “Queer Love Outlaw”.

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13. Okay Kaya, “Asexual Wellbeing”

Watch This Liquid Pour Itself » Jagjaguwar » 2020

Okay Kaya, Watch This Liquid Pour Itself [📷: Jagjaguwar]

“Sometimes, I rub my ghost dick until I can almost see it.”
Oh, snap! Now that’s a striking lyric, Okay Kaya (Kaya Wilkins)! Not only is it striking as an isolated lyric, but it is the first lyric the New Jersey-born, Norwegian singer/songwriter sings! It is one of many unforgettable lyrics from “Asexual Wellbeing”.  In the same verse, Wilkins references matters of the cerebrum, Van Leeuwen, and perhaps most memorably, “Netflix and yeast infection.” “Asexual Wellbeing” is the seventh track on her 2020 album, Watch This Liquid Pour Itself. Wilkins composed and produced this rare ace song.

From start to finish, Okay Kaya brings sickening vocals.  Her tone is rich and beautiful. Fueling her fire is stunning production. It is clean and organized, including alluring synth elements. As awesome as the backdrop is, it is the theme and lyrics, as well as tuneful melodies, that catch the ears the most. In the second verse, Wilkins asks, “If they can put a pulse into a spinach leaf / Can they turn the two of us into a tree?” Thought-provoking. Also, in the same verse, how about that vegan peanut butter chocolate ice cream? It’s interesting! But asexuality is what we came for! In the memorable chorus, she addresses the sex… mediocre sex… no sex…

“Sex with me is mediocre

But I can give you asexual wellbeing

Sex with me is mediocre

But I can probably feel what you’re feeling.”

Beyond being asexual (within this song), is she aromantic, too 🤔? Both fall within the A of LGBTQIA2S+.  She doesn’t appear to be aromantic. After all, via the outro, she sings, “I just want us to do well / Like Jon Bon Jovi’s rosé.” Now that’s love! “Asexual Wellbeing” is a one  of a kind alternative record.

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14. Eli, “GAY MAN”

“GAY MAN” » Zelig Music / RCA » 2023

Eli, GAY MAN [📷: Zelig Music / RCA]

“This is some freaky shit and that’s for sure / Guess I gotta tuck my shit and cover up,”
ELI (she pronouns, per Instagram) sings in the first verse of “GAY MAN”. Are you confused yet? It’s worth noting that the queer pop artist was formerly known as Jeffrey Eli, which provides additional context to this 2023 R&B-infused track. In an interview with Galore, Eli (referred to as Jeffrey Eli) asserts, “… when [my friend and producer Brandon Shoop] started the beat, the idea to make a tune about falling in love with a woman popped into my head.” In the first verse, Eli continues singing, “Why (is it) mini-me is kicking down the door? / But why it would be my wood, I’m not sure.” In the press release for “GAY MAN,” it’s described as ‘an ode to pansexuality and finding love in usual places, stretching beyond the labels placed on individuals regarding who they love or are attracted to.’

Eli brilliantly plays around with gender and explores sexuality on “GAY MAN.” With some confusion from a listening perspective, there is also confusion from the parties involved.  “My baby, I am so confused,” they assert in the pre-chorus, continuing, “I never met a boy like you / You got me freakin’ about the shit I’m about to spew, girl.” In the second verse, which is more rhythmic than the first, Eli provides more deets.  “She like my top, she like my skirt, she like accessibility / I guess that opposites attract in many different means.” Of course, of course.  Getting more X-rated, “She like my sass, she like my ass, she like my sexuality / I licked her cat, I make her scream, my new pronouns are they/eat.” Woo! The two premier sections of “GAY MAN” are the chorus and the refrain.  In the chorus, Eli delivers classic lines like, “I bet you want to rub your pussy on my dick print 😳,” and, “And all these other boys be up inside your business / To be honest with you, you’re not unusual.” But, maybe the most important lyric of “GAY MAN” hails from the refrain: “You make a gay man go straight, you make a gay man behave.” Word.  Eli kills it on “GAY MAN”, singing sublimely whether its falsetto, lower-mid register, or the buttery smooth runs.  Beyond a great performance and engaging songwriting worthy of discussion, the accompanying instrumental is stupendous – the warm, robust keys and the beat! #SLAYYY 💅!

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15. The Irrepressibles, “What I Am! Queer”

What I Am! Queer » Of Naked Design » 2025

The Irrepressibles, Yo Homo (Deluxe) [📷: Of Naked Design]

“We stand with all the men who can’t express their love.”
Amen! “All of the women fighting against the oppression from men.” Amen! “All of the queers who can’t express their truth.” Amen! And everyone who’s afraid of rejection for being themselves.” And again, I say, amen! There are far too many conservatives, homophobes, and myopic folks who cry foul when it comes to being queer.  It is incredibly disheartening and frustrating. But, we who identify as queer want to live our lives freely, without being accosted, bullied, disrespected, or repressed. The Irrepressibles released a moving anthem, “What I Am! Queer”, that celebrates queerness and looks forward to a better, more promising tomorrow. Jamie McDermott says it best himself: “Freedom is for everyone!”

The Irrepressibles, What I Am! Queer [📷: Of Naked Design]The Irrepressibles released “What I Am! Queer” as an EP. There are four versions of the song, all of which showcase its meaningfulness and magic.  The main attraction is the second track, the full-length version of the song in all its grandiosity. “Queer” begins minimally, with McDermott singing authentically, beautifully, and honestly. Supported by bass and finger snaps, Jamie hauntingly recollects a rough and tumble past: “As a teen, I felt alone, no one to understand aloneness that I felt /… We were led to fear all the color in the night!”  Soon enough, he puts that ugly, repressed past behind him, accompanied by a grander soundscape, including chilling background vocals. Embracing his queerness, he sings out and proudly:

“Don’t expect me to apologize!

Who I am is painted in the skies

You think I’m wrong? I know I’m right

But through love, we’ll all make it.”

Jamie and the Irrepressibles are 1000% correct! They tell the truth as they preach about that “life and it’s waiting for you,” and “a time where you won’t feel shame.” Sadly, many don’t see the pain inflicted upon queer individuals. They are stuck in holier-than-thou, narrow-minded ways. But, this song is not about wallowing in pain or sorrow – it’s about living life proudly! Beyond its marvelous vocals and pitch-perfect songwriting, the musical arrangement is EPIC. There are layers of striking rhythmic strings and choral vocals that elevate the musicianship to a whole other level. Tracks three and four of the EP show the intricacy of the string and choral arrangement.  When all the parts are put together, “What I Am! Queer” is breathtaking. This is an anthem that everybody needs to hear!

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~ Table of Contents ~ » ~ intro ~

Give Me 15 Striking L, G, B, T, Q, I, A, 2S Songs (2025) [📷: Brent Faulkner / The Musical Hype; Anthony R Enos III, Cole Redding, Domo Wilson, Elle, Flow Teta, Get Better, Jagjaguwar, Kill Rock Stars, Mad Tsai, Of Naked Design, RCA, Republic, RYANN, Total Treble, Zelig Music; Kampus Production, Pavel Danilyuk, Polina Tankilevitch, RDNE Stock project, SHVETS production from Pexels; AcatXIo, All_CC0_Public_domain, OpenClipart-Vectors from Pixabay; Alexander Grey, Jas Rolyn on Unsplash, Lynette Nantongo on Unsplash]

 

Categories: EvergreenLGBTQMusicPlaylistsPop Culture

the musical hype

The Musical Hype (he/him) has earned Bachelor's and Master's degrees in music (music education and music theory/composition, respectively). A multi-instrumentalist, he plays piano, trombone, and organ among numerous other instruments. He's a certified music educator, composer, and freelance music blogger. Music and writing are two of the most important parts of his life.

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