5 Trans Feminine Singers You Need to Know: Icons of Pop, R&B, and More
The world of music is rich with diversity, and trans feminine singers have increasingly made their mark with unparalleled voices, powerful stories, and genre-defining artistry.
These trailblazers have not only transformed the landscape of modern music but have also used their platforms to advocate for visibility and authenticity.
In this post, we celebrate five influential trans feminine singers who continue to shape the industry with their courage, creativity, and undeniable talent.
Shea Diamond: Soulful R&B and Rock with a Purpose
Shea Diamond’s journey to stardom is as powerful as her music. At age 20, in pursuit of gender affirmation surgery, she robbed a convenience store and subsequently spent 10 years in jail. Her time in prison became a space of self-reflection and personal transformation, and she began writing songs that embodied her experiences as a Black trans woman.
Her music blends elements of R&B, soul, and rock, creating a sound that is both deeply personal and universally resonant. Songs like “I Am Her” and “I Am America” are anthems of empowerment, showcasing her raw vocal power and emotional depth. Shea’s voice carries a gritty yet soulful resonance, capable of moving listeners with both its strength and vulnerability. Her music is a call for authenticity and recognition of the trans experience, and she continues to be a fierce advocate for trans rights.
Kim Petras: Pop Trailblazer and Chart-Topper
German-born Kim Petras broke barriers when she became the first openly trans woman to top the US charts with “Unholy,” her collaboration with Sam Smith. From the beginning of her career, Kim has embraced pop music with infectious hooks, glittering beats, and her unmistakably bright and versatile voice.
Her rise to fame wasn’t without its challenges, as she began her transition at a young age, often facing public scrutiny. But Kim’s resilience and commitment to her craft propelled her to the forefront of pop music, making her a beloved figure in the LGBTQ+ community and beyond. Songs like “Heart to Break” and “Coconuts” showcase her playful yet commanding voice, blending sugar-sweet pop with powerful self-expression.
Sophie: Hyperpop Visionary and Avant-Garde Icon
The late Scottish musician and producer Sophie was a pioneer of the microgenre known as hyperpop, blending experimental electronic music with pop sensibilities to create a bold, futuristic sound. Tragically, Sophie passed away in 2021, but her influence continues to reverberate throughout the music world.
Sophie’s voice, often digitally manipulated, reflected the fluidity of gender and identity, blurring the lines between the natural and the synthetic. Her groundbreaking work as a producer for artists like Charli XCX and her own tracks, such as “Immaterial” and “BIPP,” pushed the boundaries of pop music and helped redefine what it could be. Sophie’s music is often described as otherworldly, with high-pitched vocals that can sound both playful and haunting. Her ability to challenge norms while crafting infectious beats made her a revolutionary figure in modern music.
Anohni: Emotionally Charged Baroque Pop
British-born Anohni first gained attention with her band Antony and the Johnsons, whose haunting, piano-driven baroque pop earned critical acclaim. Anohni’s voice is unlike any other in contemporary music—rich, deep, and full of emotional weight. It carries an almost androgynous quality that adds complexity to her narratives of love, identity, and social justice.
In 2016, Anohni became the first openly transgender performer to be nominated for an Academy Award, for her song “Manta Ray,” from the documentary Racing Extinction. Her powerful lyricism, often addressing themes of environmentalism, politics, and gender, resonates through songs like “Hope There’s Someone” and “4 Degrees.” Anohni’s work challenges listeners to confront difficult truths while embracing her ethereal yet grounded voice.
Teddy Geiger: Behind the Scenes Pop Sensation
Teddy Geiger’s influence on pop music might not be as immediately recognizable to listeners, but her impact is profound. Having penned hits for major artists like Shawn Mendes, Teddy’s songwriting talent has helped shape the sound of contemporary pop. Tracks like Mendes’ “Stitches” and “Treat You Better” bear Geiger’s signature touch—catchy, emotionally resonant, and full of heart.
In 2017, Teddy publicly came out as transgender, continuing to write and produce music while embracing her authentic self. Her own voice, both as a singer and songwriter, carries a warmth and intimacy, reflecting her personal evolution and growth. With her transition came a renewed sense of creative freedom, allowing her to continue influencing the pop world with grace and innovation.
Conclusion
These five artists—Shea Diamond, Kim Petras, Sophie, Anohni, and Teddy Geiger—each bring something unique to the table. From the soulful rock of Shea Diamond to the hyperpop brilliance of Sophie, their voices and stories continue to challenge conventions and celebrate the beauty of being true to oneself.
As we celebrate their artistry, we are reminded that trans feminine voices are vital to the music world, breaking down barriers and inspiring future generations to find their own voices. Through their music, they remind us that authenticity is the most powerful sound of all.