‘I’m coming out’: The role of music in LGBTQ+ identities

Jones, Karen; Clarke, Victoria; Annesley, Luke

Abstract

Research shows that music holds great importance to the LGBTQ+ community. However, only a handful of studies have explored personal and private music consumption and particularly its role in individual identity formation and the coming out process – typically, with a focus on gay men and lesbians. This experiential qualitative study explored the role of music in LGBTQ+ identities before, during, and after the coming out process. Data were collected from 30 participants who identified as LGBTQ+ and/or in the process of coming out using an online qualitative survey; four of these participants also took part in follow-up interviews. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis, generating three themes: 1) Music to come out to; 2) Queer artists promoting individual authenticity, pride, and empowerment; and 3) Queer music for community and belonging. The findings can inform the work of music therapists, music educators, and community musicians working with LGBTQ+ individuals and communities.

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Oct 21, 2024
• Online Publication Date: Mar 1, 2025
• Publication Date: Mar 1, 2025
• Deposit Date: Oct 21, 2024
• Publicly Available Date: May 16, 2025
• Electronic ISSN: 1504-1611
• Publisher: Bergen Open Access Publishing
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 25
• Issue: 1
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.15845/voices.v25i1.4218
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/13303912