Brandi Carlile (1981 - )

Brandi Carlile (she/her) stands as one of the most influential LGBTQIA+ artists of her generation, Raised in rural Washington, Carlile has spoken openly about the challenges of coming out, including being denied baptism as a teenager because she was gay — an early experience that deepened her empathy and sharpened her resolve to live truthfully. A nine‑time Grammy Award winner, Carlile uses her platform to champion LGBTQIA+ rights, gender equity, and community care. Through the Looking Out Foundation that she cofounded in 2008, she has raised millions for grassroots organizations supporting families, youth, and marginalized communities. Her performances carry a message of courage, belonging, and radical compassion. Her song, “You and Me on the Rock” that she wrote for her wife, Catherine Shepherd has become an LGBTQIA+ anthem, with lyrics that simply affirm their strong relationship – “our love is steady, beautiful and worth celebrating.”  Carlile and Shepherd are the mothers of two children, Evangeline and Elijah.