Lil Nas X is setting the standard for gay music stars leaning into their queer power.

Perhaps what’s most impressive about how Lil Nas X is navigating this stage of his career is the complete zero-fuckery of it all.

He’s making the music he wants. He’s making the videos he wants. He’s being as gay as he wants.

He’s also not hiding behind some mysterious public persona or slick PR machine – he knows how social media works and he’s out there connecting with his audience and facing down negative critiques.

The coming out story

At the peak of his Old Town Road fame, Lil Nas X came out in one of the most nonchalant ways possible.

“Deadass thought I made it obvious…” he Tweeted, along with an image of the song’s artwork – a rainbow-coloured skyscraper.

“It was something I was considering just never doing ever, just taking to the grave or something, but I don’t want to live my entire life not doing what I want to do…” explained Lil Nas X, subsequently explaining in media interviews why he decided to publicly discuss his sexuality as a gay man. “I’m also opening doors for more people.”