Music Forward and Gibson Gives use music as a catalyst for discovery, connection, and transformation; we believe in the power of the individual voice. We strive to help break down the barriers to access and thrive in the industry, supporting and promoting a more inclusive music industry. The LGBTQ+ Emerging Artist Award is a unique and impactful grant program developed to say we hear you!
Ten (10) LGBTQ+ Emerging Artist Awardees aged 18-24 year-olds are narrowed down and selected based on many factors, including the strength of their body of work, the breadth of their body of work, their artistic vision, and their articulation of their goals should they win the award. The ten selected artists are dedicated to their craft, their songwriting, and their vision for themselves through music.
This grant is designed to help nurture artists’ growth and progress, expand the social capital of the awardees, and help reduce any barriers, both external and internal, that may come between them and achieving their greatest artistic potential.
Alessio Thorpe is a member of the SoCal based band Crimson Moon that constructs melancholic and powerful music creating a California Desert vibe.
Inspired by a lack of representation, Chrysalis shares their love for storytelling through indie rock music, filled with beautifully taboo lyrics.
Approaching their music from a place of authenticity and openness, Mel Fine is striving to create art that people can relate to and can find comfort in.
Molly Grace is a dazzling pop princess who combines funk and intimacy in her hyper-feminine music.
Nai’a’s music is overflowing with raw vocals and empathic energy, while his overall art highlights authentic beauty and orchestral melodies.
Inspired by everyday life and cultural history, Poet22 creates poetry and expresses it through soft R&B/soul melodies.
Aiming to inspire others, Sari Jordan is an artist who, when faced with contradictions in relationships, power, and love, pours their soul into songwriting.
Having been exposed to diverse environments, Shelby Ruger’s creativity blossomed, shaping her R&B-heavy, storytelling music.
Zellie creates R&B music as an outlet and a response to his ongoing journey of self-love and discovery.