In the realm of music, diversity and inclusivity have become rallying cries for change, and Spotify is at the forefront of this revolution. Introducing GLOW, their global music program developed to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community, Spotify aims to shine a light on queer artists not only during Pride Month but throughout the year. This initiative is an integral part of Spotify’s commitment to fostering equity in the audio space, joining forces with sister programs like EQUAL and Frequency.
GLOW is a beacon of hope, supporting freedom of expression and amplifying underrepresented queer voices, stories, and subcultures, particularly those facing adversity. Since its launch earlier this year, GLOW has made significant strides, with the creation of The GLOW Hub—a dedicated space on Spotify that highlights audio offerings from LGBTQIA+ voices for queer and ally users. And, of course, there’s the flagship GLOW playlist, a sonic journey that spotlights tracks by talented LGBTQIA+ artists.
As Pride Month takes center stage, Spotify is taking its commitment to the next level with the Free to Be campaign. Through this campaign, GLOW will actively engage with underrepresented queer artists, podcasters, and authors to raise awareness, dismantle harmful stereotypes, and shed light on the influence of LGBTQIA+ communities and subcultures around the world.
Enter Angie oeh, the sensational South African artist who is stepping into the GLOW spotlight. Angie oeh, proudly representing Afrikaans culture, is the only Afrikaans artist featured in the campaign. This groundbreaking inclusion solidifies her status as an artist breaking boundaries and redefining what it means to be Afrikaans, female, and a hip-hop artist in today’s dynamic music industry.
Angie oeh’s artistry and fearlessness have earned her a place alongside ten other extraordinary artists on the coveted GLOW playlist. The diverse lineup boasts exceptional talents such as Brazilian recording artist Urias, Italian pop singer Dana International, Australian multihyphenate GFlip, decorated songwriter Ilsey, The X Factor Sweden’s Isak Danielson, extraordinary performer Marina Summers, DJ and producer Taahliah, and the soulful singers-songwriters Zemmoa, Trixie Mattel, and Victoria Monet.
Recognised for her captivating songs like “Die Lewe is ‘n Lied” and “Sex in Afrikaans,” Angie oeh consistently pushes boundaries and challenges cultural taboos surrounding gender and sexuality. Unapologetically herself, she fearlessly delves into uncharted territories with her music. On June 29th, she is set to release her latest track, “Vet Diamante,” further solidifying her reputation as an artist unafraid to navigate unexplored realms.
Reflecting on her participation in the GLOW campaign, Angie oeh shares her excitement, stating, “There aren’t as many opportunities at this scale that celebrate and recognize queer artists. To be part of one is amazing, especially as a fairly new artist. This opportunity comes at a point in my career where I am still figuring out my place in the industry as a queer artist, and it makes me feel seen.”
Henco Harmse, Spotify’s Afrikaans Specialist Manager for Artist & Label Partnerships in South Africa, emphasises the importance of Spotify’s commitment to amplifying and elevating marginalised voices, “Our commitment to amplify, elevate, and spotlight minorities is of paramount importance. In Sub-Saharan Africa, harsh discriminatory regulations against the LGBTQIA+ community are still a reality in some parts of the region. We are happy to welcome artists who are as brave and talented such as Angie oeh to the program.”
