By standing loud and proud, these artists are making great music, challenging stereotypes, and advocating for gay rights.
As more LGBTQ+ voices rise in country music, it is clear that the industry is becoming more inclusive and ready to embrace diversity.
11 Country Music Artists Who Have Come Out As Gay
Here are some names the country community has rallied behind in recent years, as well as some good ol’ country music.
Sam Williams, Son of Hank Williams Jr.
Sam Williams, the son of Hank Williams Jr., sat down for Apple Music’s Proud Radio with Hunter Kelly, where he discussed the inspiration behind his “Titled Crown” music video, which details his upbringing, his relationship with his family, and ultimately serves as his public coming out.
The 24-year-old said he originally planned on showing references for his sexuality for his “Snow Angels” music video, but it never came to fruition.
But that changed with “Tilted Crown.”
He said on the episode:
“At first I kind of thought that, ‘I’m tackling something else with this.’ And I thought that maybe that’s for another project.
Justin Hiltner
Justin Hiltner is a Nashville-based banjo player, songwriter, and music writer. Weigle’s artistry extends beyond melodies as he fearlessly embraces his identity, weaving his experiences into his songs.
By sharing his personal journey, he encourages a sense of unity and understanding, creating a space where diverse stories thrive.
Sam Williams
Sam Williams is a rising star in country music, and his talent is undeniable. 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.
Started
Top Hits
Debut Album
2014
American Dreamin’, Daddy’s Money
Brooke Eden (2014)
12.
While there are more, these are our favorite.
1. Despite these challenges, he continues to evolve as an artist and released his first love song to show his growth.
5. Michael Waugh
Michael Waugh is an Australian country singer-songwriter known for his storytelling and exploration of personal and social themes.
Growing up in Maffra, Victoria, he began writing songs at the age of 13 and released his debut album in 2015.
Waugh’s music is personal, often showing his experiences as a gay man in rural Australia.
And, he uses his platform to address issues of identity, acceptance, and social justice, aiming to foster understanding through his songs.
Started
Top Hits
Debut Album
2015
We Are Here, Fix Me
What We Might Be (2015)
24.
Rowan Simmons
Rowan Simmons is an emerging LGBTQ+ country artist known for their heartfelt songwriting and unique blend of traditional country with modern influences.
While specific details about their early life and career are limited, Simmons has been gaining recognition in the independent music scene for their storytelling and touching performances.
Simmons’s motivation for pursuing music stems from a desire to express personal experiences and connect with others through song.
Their work often explores themes of identity, love, and resilience, connecting with a diverse audience.
Started
Top Hits
Debut Album
2020
Kentucky Coal
N/A
27.
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.
Their music connects people, sparks understanding, and celebrates individuality. And I just thought it was the perfect opportunity to just show who I was.
I identify as gay, and I’ve never said that to anybody else. The future of music is diverse and wonderfully inclusive, and these LGBTQ+ artists are leading the way.
Are you a country music fan looking for representation in the genre?
Osborne is one-half of the country duo Brothers Osborne, known for their mix of country and rock. 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.
Started
Top Hits
Debut Album
2020
Nobody, Blueneck
Blueneck (2023)
21.
Well, you’re not alone! In an interview with PEOPLE, he revealed that he had been keeping his sexuality a secret throughout his entire career.
Herndon shared that he realized he was gay at age ten and struggled with guilt about it. 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.
Started
Top Hits
Debut Album
2021
Nightflyer, Persephone
Outside Child (2021)
13.
Brandy Clark
Brandy Clark, from Morton, Washington, is celebrated for her storytelling and songwriting prowess. Willi Carlisle
Willi Carlisle is a folk singer-songwriter from Kansas, now based in Arkansas. 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.
Started
Top Hits
Debut Album
2005
My Church, The Bones
Hero (2016)
3.
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.
Chely Wright
Chely Wright, born Richell Rene Wright on October 25, 1970, in Kansas City, Missouri, is a country music artist and LGBTQ+ activist.
She rose to fame with hits like Single White Female and made history in 2010 by becoming the first major country artist to come out as gay.
Laster, her family’s musical background supported Wright’s early aspirations in music and her decision to come out was driven by a desire to live authentically and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights within the country music industry.
Started
Top Hits
Debut Album
1994
Single White Female, Shut Up and Drive
Woman in the Moon (1994)
19.
They are not only changing the songs we listen to, but also the way we see each other.
And guess what? Hawthorn’s motivation for pursuing music stems from his upbringing in the Midwest and a desire to tell authentic stories through song.
His work often explores themes of love and identity, aiming to bring inclusivity to the country music genre.