11 Exciting Queer Albums to Anticipate in 2025, from Lady Gaga to Shygirl

As we step into 2025, the music scene continues to be enriched by the vibrant contributions of queer artists. With a lineup that promises innovation and depth, this year is already shaping up to be a spectacular one for music lovers.

Looking back, 2024 was a remarkable year for music. It was defined by groundbreaking releases from beloved queer icons and allies. Charli XCX captured the spirit of the times with her album Brat, while Chappell Roan ascended to synth-pop glory. Other standout releases came from Sabrina Carpenter, Billie Eilish, Beyoncé, and Taylor Swift, making it a year to remember. However, 2025 has already begun to show signs of an equally exciting musical journey.

Ethel Cain, Perverts (Out Now)

Southern goth-rock sensation Ethel Cain returns with her highly anticipated sophomore album Perverts. Following her widely acclaimed debut American Teenager in 2022, Cain has continued to captivate audiences with her haunting and ethereal sound. Her latest release explores dark themes, with lead single "Punish" setting the tone for what is arguably one of the darkest yet most intriguing albums of the year.

Lambrini Girls, Who Let The Dogs Out (10 January)

Brighton's punk duo Lambrini Girls, featuring Phoebe Lunny and Lilly Macieira, are back with a bang. Their debut album, Who Let The Dogs Out, is a fiery collection of tracks that challenge societal norms through razor-sharp wit and intense energy. Known for their viral track "TERF Wars," the duo continues to advocate for the queer community with powerful new songs like "Big Dick Energy" and "Company Culture."

Rebecca Black, Salvation (24 January)

Rebecca Black's transformation from internet meme to queer pop sensation is nothing short of inspirational. With her new album Salvation, she solidifies her place in the pop world. Her previous work, Let Her Burn, showcased her growth, and Salvation promises to deliver even more of the bold and vibrant sound fans have come to love.

Olly Alexander, Polari (7 February)

Olly Alexander embarks on a new solo journey with his album Polari. After stepping away from Years & Years, Alexander continues to enchant with his unique blend of pop that celebrates queer identity and love. Polari features tracks like "Cupid’s Bow" and "Archangel," which reaffirm his status as a luminary in the music scene.

Shygirl, Club Shy Room 2 (14 February)

In a world filled with uncertainty, Shygirl offers an escape through her experimental pop bangers. Club Shy Room 2 delves into themes of hedonism and self-expression, providing a much-needed refuge from the chaos of the outside world. Her music is a celebration of queer culture, focusing on pleasure and freedom.

Lady Gaga, Untitled (February)

Lady Gaga is set to release her much-anticipated seventh studio album, which promises to push boundaries and explore new musical territories. Although details remain sparse, Gaga's reputation for innovation and her enigmatic approach to music keep fans eagerly awaiting what is sure to be a dynamic release.

Sasami, Blood on the Silver Screen (7 March)

Sasami's third studio album, Blood on the Silver Screen, marks a bold shift into stadium-ready pop-rock. With singles like "Honeycrash" and "Slugger," she demonstrates her evolution as an artist capable of blending introspective lyrics with grand, anthemic sounds.

Miley Cyrus, Something Beautiful (TBC)

Following the success of "Flowers" and her first Grammy win, Miley Cyrus is ready to embrace grandeur with her upcoming album Something Beautiful. Influenced by iconic visual elements, Cyrus's new project is expected to be as bold and audacious as her unique persona.

Kesha, Untitled (TBC)

With newfound artistic freedom, Kesha is poised to release new music that harkens back to her early, carefree sound while pushing forward with creative exploration. Her return to the music scene is marked by a vibrant and unapologetic energy, promising exciting new material for her fans.

Cardi B, Untitled (TBC)

Cardi B's long-awaited follow-up to her debut Invasion of Privacy is expected to drop this year. Known for her bold personality and genre-defining music, Cardi is set to reclaim her spot at the forefront of the hip-hop scene with a new album that promises to make waves.

Madonna, Untitled (TBC)

Madonna, the queen of reinvention, is working on new music that will see her return to dance-pop, collaborating with renowned producer Stuart Price. Her upcoming release is eagerly awaited, as she draws inspiration from her iconic Confessions on a Dancefloor era.

These upcoming albums represent a diverse array of voices in the queer music community, each offering something unique and exciting. As these artists prepare to share their new works with the world, we can anticipate a year filled with groundbreaking music that challenges, inspires, and delights.