One way we are seeing this is by recognizing LGBTQ+ creatives shaking up the music industry. The historic number of artists up for nominations is the reason why some are calling the 64th annual Grammy Awards the queerest to date.
Leading the pack this year are Lil Nas X, Brandie Carlile, and Lady Gaga with five nominations each. All artists have the opportunity to win the music industry’s top categories, including Record of the Year and Song of the Year.
don’t have to win a single award, truly thankful for all the insight this year has brought me. and thankful for the journey. love u guys 😭🤍
— MONTERO (@LilNasX) November 23, 2021
Lil Nas will compete in both categories with his debut album’s title track, “Montero (Call Me By Your Name).” He is also up for Best Melodic Rap Performance for “Industry Baby.” Meanwhile, Carlile’s “Right on Time” earned her this year’s recognition.
Country musician T.J. Osbourne, who publicly came out as gay in February is nominated along with the Osbourne Brothers duo for Best Country Duo/Group Performance for the song “Younger Me,” and Best Country Album for Skeletons.
Arlo Parks, Japanese Breakfast, and are all in the running for the Best New Artist category and Best Alternative Music Album. Also competing in the same category are pop star Halsey and St. Vincent.
In a statement released by GLAAD president & CEO Sarah Kate Ellis said that she was happyt to see so many LGBTQ+ artists professionals being appreciated and recognized for their contribution to the arts.
“The vast inclusion of LGBTQ artists amongst this year’s Grammy nominees – including Lil Nas X, Brandi Carlile, Lady Gaga, and many others – highlights not only a growing shift in cultural acceptance but also the dominant impact that LGBTQ artists are making across the music industry,” she said.