20 essential songs for your Pride Month playlist

“I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor

Does this song really need an introduction?

“I Will Survive” is THE anthem of all queer anthems. There’s a reason this song has lasted so many generations, and why you can’t go anywhere in the world without seeing at least one drag queen perform it. It’s a song about being a fighter, about overcoming the terrible things that happen to you and coming out stronger than ever.

The LGBTQ community has faced some truly disheartening abuse over the years, and even though you may think times are changing, young queer people are still abused and kicked out of their homes, and crimes against trans people are still shockingly high.

But many people within the community have been able to move past their struggles, whether it was an abusive parent or partner, a hate crime in their community, or just general feelings of not being accepted, and they survived. When “I Will Survive” comes on at a Pride party, they can think about all the things they have overcome to be there, and how strong they are because of it. And for those are still struggling to find that freedom, it can help them feel safe and confident, even if for just a few minutes.

“I Will Survive” is the kind of song whose lyrics need to be shouted at full blast, with your hands thrown in the air as you throw your entire body around with the flair of every pop diva who has ever graced this earth. If it doesn’t make you feel some kind of way, you might be at the wrong party.