Gay country singer

Their music connects people, sparks understanding, and celebrates individuality. Her path toward self-acceptance and coming out publicly has been reflected in her music, with the aim of inspiring others in the LGBTQ+ community.

12.

And, his openness about his sexuality has paved the way for greater LGBTQ+ representation in country music.

Started	Top Hits	Debut Album
1995	What Mattered Most, Living in a Moment	What Mattered Most (1995)

14.

His revelation about being gay in February 2021 marked him as the first openly gay country singer, creating an important industry dialogue.

T.J.’s bravery did not stop at his announcement; it opened up opportunities for greater representation and sparked conversations among his fans and fellow country artists.

Breaking barriers doesn’t come easy, especially challenging stereotypes in a traditional genre like country music.

Orville Peck

Orville Peck, born Daniel Pitout on January 6, 1988, in Johannesburg, South Africa, is known for his masked persona and rich baritone voice.

Peck’s music blends traditional country with alternative influences, often with themes of love and identity.

His mysterious presence and advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights have made him a unique figure in the genre.

9.

Waylon Payne

We’re diving into the journey of Waylon Payne, a prominent figure in the country music scene who recently resurfaced after a 15-year hiatus.

Maiah Wynne

Maiah Wynne, born December 22, 1996, in Colorado, is a singer-songwriter based in Gresham, Oregon.

She began composing music at the age of seven and gained recognition through music competitions during her high school years in Missoula, Montana.

Wynne is known for her hauntingly beautiful voice and has collaborated with artists like Alex Lifeson of Rush.

And, her motivation for pursuing music lies in her desire to make a difference through her art.

Shelly Fairchild

Shelly Fairchild, born August 23, 1977, in Clinton, Mississippi, is an American country singer known for her powerful vocals and dynamic performances.

Fairchild’s motivation for pursuing music began in her childhood, when she performed in church and school choirs.

Her work often reflects her Southern roots and personal experiences, aiming to connect with audiences through heartfelt storytelling.

31.

Born with a voice that carries the genre’s soul, Jensen’s journey is a story of resilience, breaking barriers, and embracing one’s true self.

In a genre often characterized by traditional values, Drake Jensen fearlessly stepped into the spotlight, unapologetically embracing his identity as a gay man.

His decision to live authentically, both in his personal life and through his music, inspires countless individuals who find solace in his tunes.

7.

The duo’s debut album, Pawn Shop (2016), included hits like Stay a Little Longer.

In 2021, T.J. publicly came out as gay, becoming the first openly gay artist signed to a major country label.

His decision was driven by a desire to live authentically and has been seen as a significant step toward greater inclusivity in country music.

Started	Top Hits	Debut Album
2013	Stay a Little Longer, It Ain’t My Fault	Pawn Shop (2016)

5.

Orville Peck

Orville Peck is a rising star in the country music scene, and his unique blend of LGBTQ+ representation and traditional country sounds has gained him a significant queer fanbase.

But it’s not just his music that sets him apart. As one of the few openly gay men in mainstream country, he has faced his fair share of challenges but has managed to make a name for himself over the past 15 years.

McAnally’s career took off as a solo artist for Curb Records when LeeAnn Womack recorded his song “Last Call” in 2008.

Since then, he has charted on the country music charts and won three Grammy Awards for his work, including co-producing Kacey Musgraves’ acclaimed debut album.

Top Gay Male Country Singers, Final Thoughts

The best gay male country singers highlighted in this article are breaking barriers and paving the way for LGBTQ+ representation in the genre.

Paisley Fields

Breaking the mold in country music, Paisley Fields, an openly gay singer-songwriter-bandleader, has been gracing the industry with his presence since 2013.

Fields began his career as part of a duo alongside Jessica—his friend—but now stands as the sole songwriter of their combined efforts.

Acknowledging this brave approach increases our appreciation for Fields as we see how he’s driving change despite challenges faced due to being openly gay in this traditional music scene.

9.

Patrick Haggerty (Lavender Country)

Patrick Haggerty was the frontman of Lavender Country, the first openly gay country music band, formed in 1972.

Their self-titled debut album, released in 1973, was groundbreaking, addressing LGBTQ+ themes head-on. Lily Rose

Lily Rose, born on September 12, 1993, in Dunwoody, Georgia, is a rising country artist known for contemporary country with pop and R&B influences.

Rose’s passion for music begins after attending a Bruce Springsteen concert, inspiring her to learn to play the drums and guitar.

Her songwriting often reflects personal experiences, aiming to break barriers in the country music scene.

7.

Allison Russell

Allison Russell is a Canadian singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist known for her work with groups like Po’ Girl and Birds of Chicago before launching her solo career.

Russell’s music often explores themes of resilience and healing, drawing from her personal experiences.

She uses her platform to advocate for marginalized communities and bring awareness to social issues.

13.

Maren Morris

Maren Morris, hailing from Arlington, Texas, is known for mixing country with pop and rock influences.

She began writing and performing music at a young age, inspired by her father’s gift of a guitar when she was 12.

Her music often explores themes of empowerment and self-discovery, and she has been an outspoken supporter of LGBTQ+ rights and inclusion in country music.

3.

T. J. Osborne

The country music genre has recently seen a surge in LGBTQ+ representation. Others highlighted Brian Falduto for his fun energy and Papa Was a Rodeo by The Magnetic Fields for its emotional storytelling.

Overall, the community suggested a strong mix of queer artists and supportive songs worth checking out.

For more details, click here.

1.

Billy Gilman

Billy Gilman, born on May 24, 1988, in Westerly, Rhode Island, gained fame as a child prodigy with his debut single One Voice at the age of 11.

He publicly came out as gay in 2014 and later competed on The Voice, finishing as runner-up in 2016.

Moreover, his powerful vocals and emotive performances drove Gilman’s early success.

15.

Still, T.J.’s presence provides visibility to LGBTQ+ fans longing to see themselves represented in their favorite musical style.

14. Chris Housman

Chris Housman, born around 1990 in western Kansas, is a singer-songwriter known for incorporating gay themes into his music.

He gained attention with his 2020 single Nobody, which reflects on his personal life events.

Raised on a farm, Housman’s early exposure to country music and his experiences as a gay man in a conservative environment heavily influenced his songwriting.

And, his work aims to bring visibility and authenticity to LGBTQ+ narratives in country music.

21.

Her candid storytelling and powerful vocals have established her as a prominent figure in the Americana and outlaw country scenes.

Started	Top Hits	Debut Album
2017	Neon Cross, Sweet Mess	Felony Blues (2017)

32.

With six number-one hits across the UK, Canada, and New Zealand, Tommy Atkins has undoubtedly captured the hearts of country music fans worldwide.

Based in Newcastle, England, Tommy Atkins is known for his incredible talent and contributions to the LGBTQ+ community in country music.

As the founder and host of Proud to Be Coun, a platform for LGBTQ+ country music artists, Tommy Atkins continues to create a space where artists can express themselves freely and be celebrated for who they are.

13.