Nashville Hosts OUTlaw Queer Country Event at AmericanaFest to Celebrate LGBTQ Artists

Nashville Gears Up for OUTlaw Queer Country Event at AmericanaFest

The vibrant city of Nashville is known for its rich musical heritage, but this September, it will showcase an exciting side of country music that often gets overlooked: the queer country scene. On September 19, the OUTlaw Queer Country event will take place at the beloved Lipstick Lounge, highlighting some of the most talented LGBTQ artists in the industry. Composed by Julie Nolen and Cindy Emch, this event promises to be an electrifying celebration of diversity in the country music genre.

A Celebration of Queer Country Artists

As part of the annual AmericanaFest, known for its emphasis on left-of-center artists in roots music, the OUTlaw event aims to spotlight queer musicians who have long fought for recognition and representation in the mainstream country world. With both seasoned professionals and emerging talents gracing the stage, music lovers are in for a treat!

This year, the lineup features Nashville stalwarts such as Mercy Bell, Jaimee Harris, and Melody Walker. Additionally, out-of-town stars like Paisley Fields from New York, Joy Clark from New Orleans, and Shawna Virago hailing from San Francisco will also perform. There will be no shortage of talent, with rising artists like Bobby Dove from Canada and Nashville’s own Madeline Finn joining the parties.

A Glimpse into LGBTQ Solidarity

In addition to the live performances, attendees will have the opportunity to view Damon Beirne’s short documentary titled “Lavender Outlaws.” The film, recorded during the 2022 Queer Roots Party, delves into the LGBTQ country community andhow they continue to stand together amidst rising challenges.

Speaking with Emch and Nolen, who have tirelessly worked to create a community for queer artists, it’s clear that their mission is far-reaching. Emch, currently residing in the Bay Area, describes her music as a blend of “rowdy outlaw and tender-hearted Leonard Cohen.” Meanwhile, Nolen, based in Austin, Texas, considers her work a “cross-section of bar ballads,” hoping to bridge the emotional gap through music.

Building a Safe Space for Artists

Cindy Emch emphasizes the importance of creating a space for artists to share their truth. “I feel like I exist on this earth to help people find art that matters to them,” she shares. As they reflect on their inspirations, Nolen mentions her desire to build a platform that allows musicians who don’t fit the typical mold to flourish: “I’m tired of these bearded dudes with cowboy hats singing about whiskey and women,” she said. Through this initiative, both artists aim to foster empathy and understanding within the broader community.

Support from AmericanaFest

This is not the first time that Emch and Nolen have curated a presentation like this at AmericanaFest. Last year marked their inaugural official event, and this year it’s evident that their efforts have gathered momentum. Emch notes, “They’ve given us a lot of resources and a lot of support to make this year even bigger than last year.” More queer artists are set to be featured, cementing the legitimacy of queer country and its rightful place at AmericanaFest.

Join the Celebration

The upcoming OUTlaw Queer Country event at Lipstick Lounge is not just a concert; it’s a call for recognition and respect for LGBTQ artists in a genre that often overlooks their contributions. It’s a celebration of community, creativity, and the power of music to unite different walks of life.

Whether you’re a long-time fan of country music or a curious newcomer, mark your calendars for September 19. This event promises to be an unforgettable experience filled with engaging performances, camaraderie, and a renewed commitment to inclusivity in the world of country music.