More Homo: Gender, Race, and Sexuality in Rap Music

• In Event: 1480 - Section on Sociology of Sexualities Roundtable Session
  In Refereed Roundtable 60min: Table 05. Sexuality, Intersectionality, and Identities

Abstract

Addressing the taboo topic of gays and lesbians in hip hop, the author explores the turn from a defiantly homophobic to a conditional acceptance of queer rappers through case studies. Chart-topping artists such as lesbian rapper Young M.A and Nicki Minaj provide opportunities for an in-depth exploration of the history and contemporary experiences of LGBTQ emcees in rap. These artists openly discuss same-sex desire in their music, a move that dares to confront homophobia in hip hop and articulates feminist beliefs. However, the author contends that the provisional tolerance of lesbians remains predicated on lyrics that promote straight male erotic fantasy—women who rhyme about sexual congress with other women receive an endorsement. Queer and gay males who rap about sexual relations with other men remain marginalized. Thus, even though there are more LGBTQ artists openly represented in the genre, these individuals still face constraints.

Author

• Matthew Oware, DePauw University