Deezer launches Queer Culture channel

The channel is available globally and can now be accessed here. Its launch coincides with Pride Month, which is celebrated annually as a tribute to those who were involved in the Stonewall riots. The music streaming platform says it seeks to bring fans the top music, podcasts and audiobooks from the LGBT community and to bring attention to queer artists and creators such as Kehlani, Janelle and Monae, among others.

Queer Culture will be updated regularly with the latest content from queer talent around the globe. Fans can explore a range of editorial playlists like Queer Icons and The New Generation of Artists, where they can listen to long-standing champions of the community or discover new artists. The channel will also feature soundtracks for TV shows and movies that popularised queer culture.

Later this month, Deezer will debut Queer Culture Sessions, which are exclusive shows featuring popular queer artists including Mykki Blanco, Calum Scott, Tayla Parx and Carlie Hanson, who will cover songs like ‘Boys in the Street’ by Greg Holden, ‘Wannabe’ by Spice Girls and ‘Here Comes My Girl’ by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers.

Apart from music, users can learn more about LGBT life, culture and history through a selection of podcasts like Nancy and LGBTQ+, while audio fans in Germany can listen to queer-specific audiobooks. The Behind the Music playlist will also take fans behind the scenes and shine a spotlight on queer producers and songwriters.

“Queer culture is all about inclusion and respect,” Deezer global editor for the Queer Culture channel Fabio Santana said. “There are so many artists and creators who have contributed to the queer community throughout the decades. This inspired us to create a single hub for all queer content. Whether it’s music, podcasts or audiobooks – our channel is a gateway to Pride – 365 days a year.”

The Queer Culture channel forms part of Deezer’s ongoing diversity efforts. In 2020, the company launched the Black Culture channel and removed the term “urban” from its platform.

Meanwhile, Apple Music has launched a new, always-on Pride page. Every Sunday in June, Apple Music will spotlight new Pride content focusing on the themes of equality, resilience and community. Featured content will include Pride Talks, Guest-curated playlists, exclusive DJ mixes, Apple Music radio shows and 24-hour takeovers of Apple Music TV on 6, 13, 20 and 27 June. Interested subscribers can access the Pride content here.