In the wake of tragedy, like the senseless killing of 49 people at the Orlando LGBTQ nightclub Pulse on June 12, music is often one of the best sources of comfort and understanding. In songs, we can find hope; we can vent anger; we can be moved to tears. Perhaps most importantly, though, we can find a much-needed sense of community with the simple push of a button.

What happened in Orlando was a direct attack on a gay safe space, a place where people could go to be themselves and be with those they love without fear of judgment or hatred. That the attack took place during Pride month sought to further unravel the very fabric of the gay community, but, as seen in the many vigils, benefits, and gatherings hosted in honor of the attack’s victims over the last week, it accomplished anything but.

When a specific community is attacked, as was the case with the gay community in Orlando, it becomes especially important to honor that community's cultural touchstones, which is why we put together this playlist of songs that we feel exemplify what it means to celebrate Pride. The playlist shows not only a wide range of takes on what it can mean to make roots music, but also how diversity has become an integral part of roots culture itself. The artists below represent some of the most important LGBTQ voices in roots music, past and present, and we couldn’t be prouder to have them as part of our community here at BGS.

Listen to our Pride playlist below. Support victims of the Orlando attack here.

Photo credit: tedeytan via Foter.com / CC BY-SA

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