As part of our 30 Days of Pride initiative, we’ve asked LGBTQ stars to create playlists to show what ‘pride’ means to them. YouTube star and co-founder of Heard Well Connor Franta chose a mix of LGBTQ artists and allies to the community.
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“My playlist is a compilation of songs that are fun and upbeat with others being a bit deeper with prideful meanings,” he tells Billboard of his song choices. Give Connor’s playlist a spin below, and read why he chose each track:
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1. MNEK – “The Rhythm”
I chose “The Rhythm” by MNEK as my first song on this playlist as MNEK is a great representative of an artist who never fails to create a song with a lasting impression. “The Rhythm” is a great beginning to your Pride morning and will get you ready to celebrate the days to come.
2. CRZY – “Kehlani”
This song by Kehlani is a smooth masterpiece. “CRZY” is a great song that will get you going in the morning with its dope underground twist.
3. Wrabel – “We Could Be Beautiful”
?Wrabel is one of my good friends and this is one of his newest songs. His music tends to grab my attention with the melodies or simply with the way he’s able to tell a deeply emotional story through his lyrics.
4. Frank Ocean – “Novacane”
Frank is a classic and always includes LGBT themes in his music. I simply could not leave him off this playlist. “Novacane” is super sensual song that I think will move you to fall in love — if even for a night — at Pride.
5. Disclosure feat. Sam Smith – “Omen” (Radio Edit)
I really wanted to include a Sam Smith song on this playlist because I listened to his music a lot when I was coming to terms with my sexuality. A lot of Sam’s music is somewhat emotional but not without purpose. “Omen” is a total jam and a nice add on to your pride playlist.
6. MUNA – “I Know A Place”
“I Know A Place” is a fantastic song packed full of meaning. When you step away from the beat and really listen to the lyrics, you’ll want to cry upon realizing the story behind them. This song ultimately talks about clubs being a safe space for LGBTQ+ people and is also a great reminder of our history.
7. Years & Years – “Desire”
This song will add much needed lust to your weekend. Like the title suggests, this song makes you immediately want to find another human to dance with, so do just that and enjoy this sensual song.
8. Lady Gaga – “Born This Way”
Gaga has always been a shining LGBTQ+ ally and “Born This Way” truly is an anthem telling the world that people are born who they are and they should love those people as they are. It’s emotional. It’s necessary. It’s timeless.
9. Icona Pop – “Weekend”
This one is another fun song to elevate your Pride. As the day goes on and the sun is nearly gone, this song is a bop you’ll appreciate and demand a replay.
10. Sylvan Esso – “Die Young”
“Die Young” is a little bit edgier than the rest of these songs. Pairing the lyrics with the vocals, and these amazing instrumentals, you’ll easily find a new favorite song with this one.
11. Sia feat. Kendrick Lamar – “The Greatest”
Let’s be real, it was difficult to choose just one Sia hit because she has so many, but I chose a current favorite. Sia turns simple concepts into complete bops, but you already know that, so just enjoy this one of many as you begin to wrap up your night.
12. Miley Cyrus – “We Can’t Stop”
For the final song, I wanted to add a little Miley to my list. She’s a shining sun and has been an incredible ally to the LGBTQ+ community for years. This song is the undeniable perfect way to end your evening by, well, never wanting it to end. Enjoy your time and make it feel infinite with this one.
