Have a boogie to our Pride anthems playlist and celebrate World Pride 2020!
We've rounded up our top ten favourite tunes to uplift and inspire.
Put your dancing shoes on and let the good vibes take over.
Gloria Gaynor – I Am What I Am
The song was originally written by Jerry Herman, an openly gay, celebrated Broadway composer.
It was first introduced in the Tony Award-winning musical, La Cage Aux Folles.
Later, it was released as a disco hit by Gaynor.
We love this song’s message of unapolagetic self acceptance.
Diana Ross – I’m Coming Out
This Motown smash hit was released in 1980.
It has been popular ever since for its upbeat, positive message.
The song has been widely interpreted as a celebration of the expression of LGBTQ identity.
Madonna – Express Yourself
Above all, critics praised ‘Express Yourself’ for its message of gender equality and freedom of self-expression.
The music video had a budget of $5 million ($10.31 million in 2019 dollars).
It was consequently the most expensive music video ever at the time.
Elton John – Are You Ready For Love
It’s actually one of Elton John’s few songs that he didn’t write himself.
Elton was a big fan of Philadelphia soul sound, so he worked with Philadelphia International Records to make this track.
We certainly love its uplifting, soulful feel.
David Bowie – Let’s Dance
This glam rock artist revolutionised attitudes to sexuality throughout his career.
Bowie stunned the world with his performance as Ziggy Stardust, a bisexual androgynous rockstar.
Bowie’s legacy continues to inspire people to express themselves without inhibitions.
Lady Gaga – Born This Way
This song’s sci-fi inspired music video presents the theme of rebirth.
“It’s the story about the birth of a new race,” Gaga told BBC Radio 1 DJ Greg James.
“A race that bears no prejudice and a race that’s primary sort of ambition in life is to inspire unity and togetherness.”
George Michael – Freedom! ’90
Michael addresses his struggles with fame and self worth in this song.
However, many have associated the song as an LGBTQ anthem.
Michael publicly came out as gay in 1998.
The song’s lyrics, such as, “There’s something deep inside of me / there’s someone else I’ve got to be”, have consequently been interpreted as a call for the right to express sexuality.
Candi Staton – Young Hearts Run Free
This song based on Staton’s own experiences encourages female independence and gender equality.
We love its message of encouragement to feel free and love yourself.
Chaka Khan – I’m Every Woman
The Queen of Funk released this song in 1978.
This song is a true anthem for strong women.
We love this song’s message that you can be anything and everything that you want to be.
Sister Sledge – We Are Family
Finally, this timeless classic by four sisters is a hymn for feminism.
The song’s message of unity certainly still resonates today.
It encourages us all to stand together and accept each other despite our differences.
LINKS TO OTHER STUFFER POSTS
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Celebrating Pride Month – Join the virtual fun
Due to the Covid-19 epidemic, several Pride events are being held virtually. You can now join people across the world in celebrating Pride!
Make a rainbow Pride shirt using a simple screen-printing technique
Make a rainbow Pride shirt using screen-printing and get your Pride on! Be out loud and proud or show support for the LGBTQ community.
Make a rainbow paper bead necklace – it’s great fun for kids!
Learn how to make a paper beads necklace in rainbow colours. It’s a great craft for children of all ages and perfect for Pride too!
Make a rainbow stained glass window
A stained glass-effect Pride flag on your window, using masking tape and Posca pens / paint
