In a world where music has long served as a powerful medium of self-expression and social change, sapphic anthems have emerged as songs of empowerment, solidarity, and love for women by women. Moreover, with the celebration of Lesbian Visibility Week on Apr. 22 to 28, it’s become crucial to celebrate and better understand the complexities of the lesbian identity.

 

From iconic hits such as “We Fell in Love in October” by girl in red to more recent hits such as “Entropy” by Beach Bunny, sapphic anthems have given queer women a safe space to unapologetically express their love and identity. With that, get ready to groove to these sapphic anthems worth checking out!

 

“Good Luck, Babe! ” by Chappell Roan

If you’re on the internet, you’ve probably heard this infectious tune on your feed. “Good Luck, Babe!” is the latest release of American singer-songwriter Chappell Roan—an electrifying anthemic pop track that combines orchestral-like strings with a steady beat that creates a dramatic yet heartfelt aura.

 

Roan details in an interview with Rolling Stone that the song is “about wishing good luck to someone who is denying fate.” She cries out in a falsetto in the chorus, “You can kiss a hundred boys in bars. Shoot another shot, try to stop the feelings.” It’s an anthem to comfort those part of the queer community, especially the sapphics who have felt the pressure of compulsory heterosexuality. 

 

You can find “Good Luck, Babe!” across various streaming platforms.

 

“Bbgirl ” by BP Valenzuela ft. August Wahh and no rome

An RnB tune accented by prolonged synthesizer chords, “Bbgirl” is a moody song perfect for a late night out. Filipino singer-songwriter and producer, BP Valenzuela, creates a magnetic tune that sets a meet-cute vibe with hints of spontaneity throughout the song. 

 

Just like Valenzuela’s other releases, “Bbgirl” exposes the themes of self-discovery and relationships alongside personal growth. One can pick up a sense of nostalgia and longing in this song similar to how the two lovers are also drawn together to meet in the lyrics “You're right in sight you're on my mind. Just a sec, maybe I could walk right over to you. Keep staring back like that.”

 

“Bbgirl” is available on both YouTube Music and Spotify.

 

“Entropy” by Beach Bunny

An introspective indie rock melody, “Entropy” dives into the contradictory emotions of love. With the lyrics “Somebody’s gonna figure us out. And I hope they do ‘cause I’m fallin’ for you,” it displays the courage of the singer to take the risk for love despite that “someone” figuring out who she’s in love with. 

 

Upon listening to the song, you can feel the underlying fear that comes with being in a relationship that needs to be hidden. Nearing the end of the song, the singer explores the ideas of acceptance and pride with the tune “I’m not ashamed, not ashamed, not ashamed,” upon being together with their significant other. 

 

Listen to “Entropy” on your preferred streaming platform.

 

“Varsity Crush” by Pixie Labrador

New York-based Filipino artist Pixie Labrador hits close to home with “Varsity Crush,” a song that captures queer high school love. From the innocence that comes with its acoustics, to the nostalgia trip in its lyrics, listeners will surely gush over this melody.

 

Labrador emphasized in an interview with Rappler Philippines regarding her song that “I wish more people would appreciate the fact that as queer individuals, it’s not as easy as everyone thinks it is to write about sapphic or queer feelings.” “Varsity Crush” is emotionally vulnerable as a track and deserves more recognition as a Filipino-made sapphic anthem that’s gentle yet powerful. 

 

Pixie Labrador’s “Varsity Crush” can be found on Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music. 

 

“Paalala” by Kaya

Singer-songwriter Kaya, based in the Philippines and known for co-writing the viral hit "Sa Dulo Ng Bahaghari" with a Filipino-based r&b singer named Steven Peregrina, has just released her debut single "Paalala." This heartfelt ballad beautifully captures the essence of falling in love, expressing a desire to provide unwavering support, care, and dedication to a partner in all aspects of life. 

 

In an interview with Metro Clark Guide, Kaya revealed that her songs are largely inspired by her own experiences and are dedicated to those close to her heart. Through her lyrics, listeners can sense the intense and passionate love that many strive for in their relationships. Kaya consistently delivers music that evokes feelings of love and deserves greater recognition as a Filipino sapphic artist. 

 

Listen to her song “Paalala” on Spotify, Apple Music, and Youtube Music.

 

“We Fell In Love In October” by Girl in Red

Girl in Red, an indie-pop musician, rose to prominence with her ballad hit "We Fell in Love in October," which perfectly describes the feeling of falling for someone during the cozy autumn season. It's a must-listen for anyone who hasn't heard it before. 

 

With Girl in Red's delicate vocals, the song exudes desire and yearning as the singer reminisces about their romance and the feelings that came with it. The beautiful melody and relatable lyrics make it a great track to listen to. 

 

Make sure to listen to “We Fell in Love in October” on Spotify, Apple Music, and Youtube Music.

 

“Balewala” by Brisom

Brisom's "Balewala" is mesmerizing, striking a chord with many listeners, particularly those in the sapphic community. The song delves into issues of heartbreak, longing, and the struggle to move on from a previous relationship. Its sad words and evocative tune combine to create a strong listening experience that can deeply connect with its listeners.

 

Brisom is a Filipino indie band recognized for their unique sound that combines pop, rock, and electronic music. With tracks like "Balewala," Brisom continues to captivate listeners with their emotive songwriting and infectious energy.

 

Check out  Brisom’s “Balewala” on Spotify and Youtube Music.

“Girls Like Girls” by Hayley Kiyoko

Hayley Kiyoko's "Girls Like Girls' ' is a groundbreaking anthem that has had a profound impact on the music industry and LGBTQIA+ community alike. 

 

The song itself delves deep into themes of love, identity, and self-discovery, resonating with listeners who have struggled to embrace their true selves or navigate complex feelings of attraction and desire. Through powerful lyrics and a mesmerizing melody, "Girls Like Girls" serves as both a celebration of love in all its forms and a call to action for greater acceptance and inclusivity.

 

If you haven't already, give "Girls Like Girls" a listen on Spotify, Apple Music, or YouTube Music. 

 

As the celebration and empowerment of lesbians continues, it is critical to acknowledge the significant impact of sapphic artists and culture. These songs not only empower lesbians, but also provide a forum for them to express and celebrate their perspectives and experiences. 

 

So turn up the volume and let these sapphic anthems rekindle your passion and pride!