The 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 helping shape 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. That 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. 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 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 with a lineup of LGBTQ+ artists and the introduction of Queer+, a space dedicated to celebrating LGBTQ+ and minority 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 nine LGBTQ+ acts with the most buzz.

Hope Tala: The British singer and songwriter is bringing her smooth blend of R&B and bossa nova. Her lyrics navigate love and identity, and her dreamy sound fits 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. With a mix of house, disco and bangers expected 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 RuPaul would say.

Clairo: The singer’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. She was also recently nominated for best alternative music album at the Grammy Awards for “Charm.”

Coco & Breezy: These twin DJs 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, Zauner brings her 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: If you love your music chaotic, fun and genre-defying, underscores is your go-to. The musician blends identity into 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: This pioneering electronic musician, born Alejandra Ghersi, transcends traditional concerts, blending experimental beats and avant-garde visuals. Born in Caracas, Venezuela, Arca came out as nonbinary 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, as this outfit shows. 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: The South African DJ serves up deep, hypnotic beats that blend traditional African rhythms with cutting-edge electronic production. She’s breaking barriers on what it means to be intersex and creative, creating spaces where music and identity intersect beautifully.