Rolling Stone
Contact Rolling Stone by Email View all posts by Rolling Stone June 8, 2026
Illustration by Matt Cooley. RICK DIAMOND/GETTY IMAGES; KEVIN MAZUR/WIREIMAGE; WIREIMAGE; ZIK IMAGES/UNITED ARCHIVES/GETTY IMAGES; TIM MOSENFELDER/GETTY IMAGES KEVIN WINTER/GETTY IMAGES; MICK HUTSON/REDFERNS/GETTY IMAGES; KEVIN MAZUR/GETTY IMAGES Music has long been a beacon of light for the LGBTQ community, at times a call to celebration and other times a source of solace. The songs documenting the queer experience are as diverse as the community itself, and a reminder that everybody’s story plays out at its own tempo.
While there have been many iconic anthems to soundtrack Pride parties and gay gatherings alike, there are equally as many songs to turn to in the more introspective moments of life. These are the songs that have inspired our Rolling Stone editors — and millions of others — on their individual journeys. Whether you’re struggling, healing, or just learning to love yourself, there’s something here for you.
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Calum Scott
Image Credit: Frank Hoensch/Redferns “You’re gonna see me rise,” English singer-songwriter Calum Scott sings, in this triumphant dance track. Inspired by his own coming out experience, this is a song that can make you feel empowered even in moments of defeat. The way Scott’s soft intro builds into a full-on belt can give any listener chills. —K.R.
