9 LGBTQ+ artists to catch – Orange County Register

Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival has long been a space for artistic expression, music discovery, and cultural evolution. Over the years, the festival has embraced diversity, with LGBTQ+ artists shaping the sounds, styles, and movements that make Coachella an iconic event.

Queer artists have made a significant impact on Coachella’s history. In 2023, Frank Ocean became the first openly LGBTQ+ man to headline the festival, marking a major milestone. That same year, artists like Ashnikko, boygenius, Christine and the Queens, Ethel Cain, and WILLOW showcased the festival’s growing commitment to LGBTQ+ representation. The trend continued in 2024, with headliner Lana Del Rey and other prominent queer performers like Tyler, the Creator and Doja Cat taking the stage. These milestones highlight Coachella’s evolution toward inclusivity, providing a space where queer artists can share their voices with a global audience.

For years, Coachella has been home to some of music’s most iconic LGBTQ+ performances. From Lady Gaga’s electrifying 2017 set (she’s back this year to headline) to Beyoncé’s historic 2018 performance featuring a voguing section that had the Beyhive screaming, queer artistry has often been a highlight of the festival. This year, that legacy continues stronger than ever, with a stellar lineup of LGBTQ+ artists and the introduction of Queer+, a space dedicated to celebrating queer and BIPOC creatives.

So, whether you’re here to dance under the desert sky, discover your new favorite artist, or bask in the glitter-drenched joy of community, these are the ten must-see LGBTQ+ acts at Coachella 2025.

Hope Tala 

British singer-songwriter Hope Tala is bringing her smooth blend of R&B and bossa nova to the desert. With lyrics that navigate love and identity, her dreamy sound is perfect for sunset vibes. Expect a set that feels as intimate as a love letter, wrapped in soft beats and lush melodies.

Trixie Mattel 

Yes, Trixie Mattel—drag queen, comedian, and folk-pop darling—is trading in her guitar for the decks this year. Spinning an eclectic mix of house, disco, and unexpected bangers at the Do LaB stage, Trixie’s DJ set promises to be a pink glitter-fueled dance party. Expect a whole lot of “charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and talent,” as Ru Paul would say.

Clairo

Clairo’s hushed vocals and confessional songwriting have made her a queer indie icon. Whether she’s singing about sapphic longing or existential musings, her set will be a soothing, feels-filled oasis amid the desert. The SoundCloud indie-pop to major indie stardom gal was also recently nominated for best alternative music album at the 67th Annual Grammy Awards for “Charm.”

Coco & Breezy

Twin DJs Coco & Breezy aren’t just about electrifying beats—they’re also vocal advocates for the Black LGBTQ+ community, using their platform to push for inclusivity in both fashion and music. They’ve spoken out against industry racism, challenged the lack of Black representation in dance music, and emphasized that house music was pioneered by Black and brown communities. Through their music, they aim to create safe, joyful spaces where everyone feels seen, heard, and free to dance.

Japanese Breakfast 

Michelle Zauner, the force behind Japanese Breakfast, has carved out a space for herself in indie rock. As a queer Asian-American artist, Zauner brings her unique perspective into her music, using her platform to navigate themes of identity, loss, and self-discovery. In her writing, she explores the intersections of culture, queerness, and family—topics that resonate deeply with fans looking for authenticity.

Underscores

For those who love their music chaotic, fun, and genre-defying, underscores is your go-to. As a queer artist, underscores is known to blend their identity into their music, using chaotic beats and experimental sounds to express personal freedom. This hyperpop innovator is set to deliver glitchy beats, high energy, and enough synth magic to make the desert feel like a futuristic LGBTQ+ nightclub.

Arca

Arca, born Alejandra Ghersi, is a pioneering electronic musician whose performances transcend traditional concerts, offering immersive experiences that blend experimental beats and avant-garde visuals. Born in Caracas, Venezuela, Arca came out as non-binary in 2018 before later identifying as a trans woman. Her music is a reflection of her personal journey, exploring transformation, identity, and the beauty of embracing who you truly are. Growing up in Venezuela, she didn’t meet an openly gay person until she was 18, which made her path to self-discovery all the more powerful.

Amyl & The Sniffers

Punk is alive and well, thanks to Amyl & The Sniffers. Lead singer Amy Taylor (she/they) will be stomping, screaming, and moshing her way into your heart with raw energy and relentless guitar riffs. If you need a break from the synths and the glitter, this is your chance to get sweaty in the best way.

Desiree

South African DJ Desiree is here to serve up deep, hypnotic beats that blend traditional African rhythms with cutting-edge electronic production. As an intersex artist, she’s breaking barriers on what it means to be intersex and creative, creating spaces where music and identity intersect beautifully.

Originally Published: April 4, 2025 at 7:30 AM PDT