A Guide to Adelaide’s Incredible Queer Music

Living in Adelaide, we are no stranger to festivals and large music sensations skipping our city for the eastern states.

Words by Scar Lock

However, these concerns have only amplified in the last few years, most recently with the cancellation of Laneway 2027 in both Perth and Adelaide. Last year, Laneway pioneered a largely queer lineup which was a welcome announcement for cities like Adelaide that don’t always have the opportunity to see these icons in our hometown. It is recognised that these issues are a nuanced topic. Calls for increased government support for the arts and a multitude of other strategies have been on people’s minds for a long while.

One of the best ways we can support Adelaide’s music scene is by supporting local artists, especially our incredible queer talent. Whether this means streaming their music, buying their merch and physical music or showing up to gigs, there are many ways we as a community can show up for them. 

Below are 4 of my recommendations of my favourite queer musicians to check out.

Close Friends

Genre: Pop, folk, indie

A 7-part band with members Willow Rist, Marina Anthea, Charli Schulz, Hwa Roberts (formerly Edmund Black), Jasper Harrison, James Ho, Tom Johnston, Close Friends delivers magical 3-part harmonies and artfully crafted lyrics that explore their experiences as queer and neurodivergent people. Their recently released singles “Magpie” and “Follow (where you go)” explore friendship and the messy realities of falling in love. Go to one of their gigs and it will feel as if you’ve been transported to a place that feels like home with their authentic expressions of whimsical joy and sense of belonging for those who ever felt different. 

My favourite songs: “Magpie”, “My Son, The Moon”

Photo by Daniel Downs

Emerauld (they/them)

Genre: Indie, folk, rock

An unapologetically queer icon, Emerauld plays music that you feel within your bones and cannot help but jump and dance to. Their combination of soft and rough musical expressions come together to create an explosion of colourful sound. This is brought onto another level in their live performances where they rock their guitar and create an unforgettable experience.

My favourite songs: “In the Silence”, “Loud Mouth”

My Chérie (she/her)

Genre: Pop, indie, folk

With roots from South Africa, My Chérie explores a diverse range of themes including her experiences as a queer and neurodivergent artist as well as feelings shaped by mental health and faith. Chérie’s music takes on another dimension in her live performances with her ethereal vocals and her skills in live loop pedalling, completely immersing her audience. Even when stripped back with just her guitar, Chérie showcases soulful art that resonates with the hearts of all those who listen.

My favourite songs: “Life is”, “On my Mind”

effie isobel (she/they)

Genre: Indie, rock, pop

effie isobel’s music is the spiritual embodiment of girlhood. Through her bright and uplifting tones and her beautifully composed lyricism, their music is sure to bring a warm smile to your face. The final released single of her ep ‘Libra Rising” titled “Hidden Treasure” is no exception. With notes on transformation and the uncertainty of the in-between stages, their latest single is expertly crafted with vivid imagery and comforting vocals. 

My favourite songs: “Higher Gear” and “Hidden Treasure”

This is just a small selection of the many queer artists in our local music scene. If you want to hear when gigs are happening, I recommend checking out the Instagram pages of the Ages Co., who aim to deliver affordable and accessible shows for all ages that lift up multicultural, femme and queer musicians, as well as the Pocket Rock-It, who advertises gig roundups for the week. There are truly so many talented artists in our city and I employ you to go check them out!