This summer, let’s diversify our music libraries by checking out some new releases by female artists across different genres. June was LGBTQ Pride Month, but one month is not nearly enough. So, I thought it would be important to continue to highlight a few female LGBT artists within this month’s fresh finds. Check out some fresh new tunes below and let us know what you think!

The Internet, “Come Over”

The Internet’s fourth studio forthcoming album.

The Internet, originally an Odd Future project, is an alternative R&B band who gained attention with their albums Purple Naked Ladies and Ego Death. The lead singer, Syd, went solo for a while to work on her own album Fin, which was released last year. Syd was originally known for being a part of Odd Future as an engineer/producer, however she left and started working with The Internet and doing solo projects after receiving backlash for being gay. With these new projects, she moved towards embracing her sexuality and creating music more authentic to herself. Soon her own fan base grew massively, especially with hit songs like “Girl,” and she became an icon for the young black LGBT community. After a small hiatus, The Internet announced on Twitter that they’re back and working on new music, with the single “Come Over” as the first from the new album they will be releasing shortly. The single has the classic, relaxed vibe and instrumental breaks The Internet is known for, with Syd’s flowing voice and elegant production. Click here to listen to the new single on Spotify or check out the music video for the song. Click here to follow them on Twitter for updates on the new album.

Alessia Cara, “Growing Pains”

“Growing Pains” is the first single from Alessia Cara’s sophomore album.

Alessia Cara, Canadian singer and songwriter, pushed her way in the American spotlight after her EP Four Pink Walls in 2015. Since then, she has been featured on songs with various artists, such as Zedd, whom she performed alongside at the AMA’s last year. In the last year, she has performed worldwide and released more new music, growing significantly as an artist. Her latest single, “Growing Pains,” resonates deeply with her personal life and discusses feelings of growing into adulthood. Just like the message of the song, her vocals and production personify her growth and take on a more mature, adult sound compared to some of her earlier music. It’s incredible to watch young women like her grow with their music and art. Her music video for the song also portrays this message of growth, adulthood, and new identities in a unique and beautiful way. Click here to listen to “Growing Pains” on Spotify. Check out the music video here. Follow Cara on twitter to keep up to date with her new releases.

SOPHIE, “It’s Okay to Cry”

SOPHIE in “Ponyboy”

SOPHIE, a pop/electronic production artist, just released a new song and video that takes her artistry to a new level. The Scottish artist previously worked mainly on production with other artists (such as Cashmere Cat and Charlie XCX), kept her identity hidden and her music impersonal. However,  her new music is more raw and personal than anything she has released thus far. Even more, she shared an incredible new piece of art with this song and video. Especially as a transgender woman, this song is meaningful and opens up a new chapter in her story. Click here to listen to the song on Spotify, and check out the video here (you may need a box of tissues handy). Click here to follow SOPHIE on Twitter.

Lost & Found is the debut album and follow-up to the 2016 EP, Project 11.

Jorja Smith, Lost & Found

English singer, Jorja Smith, released her debut album Lost & Found. In recent years, Smith has collaborated with artists like Kali Uchis and Drake and released a few singles (most notably her song “Blue Lights”). The young artist has already won a British music award this year and is definitely paving her way into the American music scene as well. As a fresh new face in pop/R&B, Smith’s charm, smooth and beautiful voice, and unique identity definitely make her an interesting new artist to look out for. Lost & Found has already been receiving hits and good reviews, making her debut album a massive success. Some of my favorites from the album are “Teenage Fantasy” and “February 3rd,” as the beats and her strong voice are reminiscent of legends like Amy Winehouse and Adele, but with a more raw and youthful twist. Click here to listen to the album on Spotify, and follow Jorja Smith on Twitter for more updates.

Florence + the Machine, “Big God”

Florence + The Machine – Big God video

Florence + The Machine released a new alternative/indie jam with her new single “Big God,” written by Jamie xx (of the band the xx) and featuring Kamasi Washington. New music by her has been highly anticipated, as the single is a teaser for her recently released new album. Accompanying the song, she released a brilliant music video full of vivid color yet dark imagery and stunning visuals that add even more depth and feminine power to the song. Florence never fails to please her fans with her unique sound, incredibly powerful voice, and new artistic content, and “Big God” is definitely meets all of those categories. She has made a solid place for herself in the music industry, and after years in the spotlight, she is undoubtedly still killing it. Click here to listen to “Big God” on Spotify, and check out the music video. You can also follow her on Twitter here. 

Thank you for reading and dedicating time to expanding your music library to be more diverse and inclusive by encompassing a wide variety of voices, stories, and identities of incredible women sharing their art and talent with the world. What do you think about these works? Can you identify with any of their voices? Stay tuned for more fresh finds by female artists next month! And let us know who your favorite female artist is right now.