Lzzy Hale, the frontwoman of Halestorm, recently discussed her visibility as a bisexual artist in hard rock and her role in creating inclusive spaces for LGBTQ+ fans. She spoke about this in an interview with GO Magazine.
The discussion centered around her experience since coming out. It also covered how she views her responsibility as a queer artist in a genre that hasn’t always been welcoming to women or LGBTQ+ fans.
When asked about her role as one of the most visible bi women in hard rock since her coming out during an AMA, Hale emphasized the importance of living authentically.
“I have always prided myself on living my life unapologetically, and being bi was always a part of that mission,” Hale said. “My coming out was a reflection of that comfort I felt in living and telling my truth. That, inadvertently, became the ultimate lesson.”
She continued to explain her philosophy about creating space rather than waiting for acceptance.
“And instead of worrying whether or not there is a space for you, you create your own space, and you find your tribe of people who applaud you for it instead of telling you to tone it down or hide who you are,” she continued. “My role, as I see it…is leading by example and always with love.”
Hale also reflected on how Halestorm’s concerts have evolved into safe spaces for marginalized fans.
“I am so proud to see our shows now as a sanctuary for the misunderstood, the downtrodden, the weirdos, the freaks,” she said. “We exalt what makes us different, and we wear our scars like badges of honor. I see fans finding each other and becoming life-long friends; I see people falling in love. We are giving them a space to feel empowered and then re-enter the outside world with faith in themselves and trusting their inner North Star.”
Hale’s impact on the hard rock scene extends beyond her advocacy for LGBTQ+ visibility. She has earned recognition from fellow musicians across the genre.
Blabbermouth reported that Wolfgang Van Halen praised Hale as “one of my favorites out there right now” and described her as “one of the best singers out there,” noting that “what she’s doing is incredible.” This recognition from the son of legendary guitarist Eddie Van Halen highlights Hale’s growing influence and respect within the rock community.
Halestorm’s journey to becoming a platform for inclusivity has been years in the making. The band formed in 1997. It has consistently pushed boundaries in a male-dominated genre, with Hale becoming the first female solo artist to top the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart with their 2012 hit “Love Bites (So Do I).”
The band’s commitment to creating safe spaces for fans reflects a broader shift in rock music toward greater acceptance and diversity. Hale’s visibility as a bisexual artist in hard rock represents a significant milestone for LGBTQ+ representation in a genre that has historically been less welcoming to diverse identities.
Through her music and public presence, Hale continues to demonstrate that authenticity and inclusivity can coexist with the raw power and energy that defines hard rock. She inspires both fans and fellow artists to embrace their true selves.
