While the straights dominated most award categories at the 31st Annual Billboard Music Awards Thursday night, some of our favorite LGBTQ+ music girls came out on top.
Chappell Roan, who received her first Billboard nomination this year, was awarded Top New Artist. The “Good Luck, Babe!” singer accepted her award in a pre-taped video. She appeared in a grey suit jacket and bright blue eyeshadow to extend her thanks.
“You’ve really been so supportive and put not just one song, but multiple songs on the Billboard charts. This has taken a long time to be a new artist,” she laughed. “But it’s awesome to be recognized.”
SZA, who recently celebrated the second anniversary of her record-breaking album SOS, was awarded Top R&B Artist and Top R&B Female Artist, beating out Brent Faiyaz, The Weeknd, and Tyla.
This year belonged to SZA, and next year looks just as promising. The “Kill Bill” queen is ramping up for her Grand National Tour alongside Kendrick Lamar this April and has teased that her newest album is soon to come.
Our problematic fave Doja Cat added to the winning tally for queer artists. Her most recent project Scarlet 2 CLAUDE secured her title as Top Rap Female Artist over Nicki Minaj and GloRilla.
Tyla, the goddess of “Water,” was a no-brainer for Top Afrobeats Artist and Top Afrobeats Song after dominating the genre’s song chart for 51 weeks in the U.S. Although the singer has been quiet about her sexuality, many fans believe she is a member of the community, and we’re here for it!
Two honorable mentions go to Charli XCX and Beyoncé, who have been lovingly adopted by the gay community.
Charli won Top Dance/Electronic Artist and Top Dance/Electronic Album for her iconic album Brat, which had the most insane ripple effect from social media trends to political campaigns. The brat herself collaborated with multiple LGBTQ+ artists for the project, including Billie Eilish, the Japanese House, Troye Sivan, and Tinashe.
Beyoncé was given her flowers for her recent album Cowboy Carter. The twangy and heartfelt album, with collaborations from country stars like Dolly Parton, won the singer Top Country Female Artist.
Hurray for the girls and the gays!
