Lil Nas X, the Grammy-winning rapper, has been making headlines once again for sending a powerful message of hope to his LGBTQ+ fans in Saudi Arabia. The young entertainer, known for his commercially successful singles and larger-than-life music videos, has been celebrated for his inspirational journey as an openly queer artist in the music industry.
On 12 April, the Lil Nas X News Twitter account revealed that his hit track “Sun Goes Down” had reached number one in Saudi Arabia. The song, included on his debut album Montero, is a powerful testament to the struggles that Lil Nas X has faced regarding his sexuality, depression, and suicidal thoughts.
In response to this news, Lil Nas X took to Twitter to send a heartfelt message to his LGBTQ+ fans in Saudi Arabia, who live in a country where male and female same-sex activity is still illegal, and where LGBTQ+ rights are not recognized by the government. He expressed his hope that his music would provide solace to those struggling with the oppression they face, and that someday soon, the laws against LGBTQ+ people would change, and they would be free to be themselves in their own homes.
The response from fans was overwhelming, with many expressing their gratitude to Lil Nas X for his message of support. One fan thanked him for his song “Montero”, which had helped him come to terms with his own sexuality, despite living in a country where LGBTQ+ people are not accepted. Another fan praised “Sun Goes Down” as a touching and inspiring song that brought them to tears every time they listened to it.
Saudi Arabia is listed as one of the ten countries least accepting of LGBTQ+ people, with male and female same-sex activity punishable by fines, floggings, life imprisonment, and even death. “Cross-dressing” is also illegal, and those who are caught are subject to severe punishment. Lil Nas X’s message of hope comes at a time when the LGBTQ+ community in Saudi Arabia and around the world is facing unprecedented challenges, and it serves as a reminder that music can be a powerful force for change and inspiration.