Making Music for the Silenced

Photo courtesy of Mary Gauthier

Mary Gauthier is an American folk singer-songwriter. Her latest album, Rifles & Rosary Beads, was nominated for a Grammy award for Best Folk Album of the Year, and Album of the Year by the Americana Music Association. Openly queer, Mary creates music that explores themes of drug-abuse, sexuality, and war.


LTA: Could you introduce yourself and explain what you do?

I am a songwriter and a traveling troubadour. A public speaker. An author.

LTA: What has your personal journey with your LGBTQ+ identity been like? What struggles have you overcome?


I was born in the deep south in 1962. Let’s just say being queer has not been easy. I’ve used my music and my songs to build bridges, to connect me to myself, and then to connect to others. It has taken a long time, but I’ve overcome most of own internal homophobia. I am the first openly queer person to play The Grand Ole Opry. I work in a musical genre where, most often, I am the only gay person. I don’t let that stop me. I am so much more than just queer. In my work, I focus on what connects people, and it works out well.

LTA: How has your background shaped you as an artist and as a person?

I use my songs to give voice to voices not often heard from. I do this naturally because I empathize with the outcasts. I believe this gift comes from my background.

LTA: What are the struggles of being an openly gay country artist?

The country music establishment has never embraced a gay artist. They will one day. But for now, I call myself a troubadour and work circles around them. It’s harder... but its better. They can’t take away what they never gave me.

LTA: What is the best part about your career?

I believe in what I do. My work is connected to who I am. I travel the world and I meet people. I am an ambassador and a connector. I love my job.

LTA: What are your plans for the future?

I am writing a book for St. Martin's Press—I am hoping to have that ready by September.

LTA: What advice do you have for LGBTQ+ youth interested in going into the music industry?

Be yourself. Don’t let them tell you who you are. Help others along the way and bring love and kindness into your work.

LTA: Is there anything else you would like to add?

Thank you for this lovely interview!

Written by Adelaide Graham

Edited by Morgan J.  Lee and Serene De Sisso

February 2019