It’s been a historic year for many reasons, and music has played its role in 2021 like never before. There are anthems that kept us all going during the many different lockdowns that took place across the globe. There are songs that now soundtrack cherished memories of bars, festivals and gigs opening back up again. And there are bangers that have broken down barriers and really switched up the game. LGBTQ+ artists – as ever – have been at the forefront of the most exciting, innovative, imaginative and most popular tracks this year. From modern-day icons like Lil Nas X and Years & Years’ Olly Alexander, to newcomers like Isaac Dunbar, Baby Queen and MAY-A, via an actual queer legend in the form of Elton John, LGBTQ+ artists continue to push boundaries. Here we list our 20 best singles of 2021 by LGBTQ+ artists, rounding up some of the year’s most infectious bops.