Nate Ethan for LGBT+ History Month: "We Can Create a Music World that Truly Represents Everyone"

My name is Nate Ethan and I have been a musician all my life. I transitioned in my 30’s and was given the title ‘UK’s first trans rapper’ following my first live interview on BBC.

As a trans artist navigating the music industry, my journey has been filled with both triumphs and challenges. Music has always been a powerful medium for self-expression, but for transgender and non-binary artists it also becomes a tool for visibility, representation, and advocacy.

My work in the industry isn’t just about creating music - it’s about ensuring that voices like mine, and so many others, are heard, respected, and given the space to thrive and be themselves.

Being recognised as the UK’s first transgender rapper was a significant milestone

When I first started in the industry, I struggled to find artists who reflected some of my main experiences. Representation was lacking, and trans and non-binary musicians were often overlooked or misunderstood.

I couldn’t write songs as my true self before transitioning or write songs about relationships and use the correct pronouns. That absence of visibility reinforced the idea that people like me didn’t belong in the industry, but I knew that wasn’t true.

Over the years, I’ve seen the power of authentic storytelling through music and how it can shift narratives and open doors for others.

Being recognised as the UK’s first transgender rapper by the BBC was a significant milestone, not just for me but for the wider trans and non-binary music community. It showed that change is happening, but there is still work to do.

That’s why I dedicate so much of my time to ensuring that other trans and non-binary artists don’t feel alone in their journey.

Many artists struggle to be taken seriously

One of the biggest challenges for trans and non-binary artists is access - access to performance opportunities, professional networks, and industry support.

Many artists struggle to be taken seriously by labels, promoters, and venues. That’s one of the reasons why I founded TNB Connect, a platform dedicated to supporting transgender and non-binary artists by providing resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy.

Through this initiative, we’ve partnered with brands like Fila to provide essential resources, from clothing donations to community projects that uplift underrepresented voices.

By creating these opportunities, we are not only helping individual careers grow but also encouraging the industry to become more inclusive.

Pushing for inclusive policies in music venues, festivals and recording studios

Through TNB Connect, we have also organised events where transgender and non-binary artists take the stage, focusing on the intersections within the community.

These events not only provide performance opportunities but also create new spaces for collaboration, ensuring that musicians uplift each other and build sustainable careers within the industry.

Music should be a welcoming space for everyone, yet trans and non-binary artists still face discrimination, harassment, and exclusion. That’s why I push for inclusive policies in music venues, festivals, and recording studios. Artists shouldn’t have to compromise their authenticity to succeed.

Performing at Pride festivals and collaborating with organisations that prioritize LGBTQ+ representation has allowed me to create environments where trans and non-binary artists can feel seen and celebrated.

These performances are about more than entertainment - they’re about community, connection, and making space for future generations of artists who deserve to be heard.

The pressure of the music industry on mental health

The pressures of the music industry can be tough on any artist, but trans and non-binary individuals often face additional mental health struggles due to societal discrimination and lack of support.

My background in public health and well-being has given me insight into how important it is to provide mental health resources specifically tailored to LGBTQ+ artists.

Through my work, I emphasise the importance of mental well-being initiatives, whether that’s access to therapy, peer support groups, or simply creating environments where trans artists feel safe to express themselves fully.

When artists are supported holistically, they can thrive creatively without sacrificing their mental health.

Investing in trans and non-binary talent

While progress has been made, there’s still more to be done.

The music industry needs to actively invest in trans and non-binary talent - not just as performers but in every aspect, from production to management to executive roles.

Labels, venues, and organisations must implement policies that promote diversity and ensure fair treatment of transgender and non-binary artists.

Supporting trans and non-binary musicians isn’t just about inclusion - it’s about recognising the incredible talent and artistry that exists within this community. By amplifying our voices and providing platforms we can create a music world that truly represents everyone.

I’m grateful to the Musicians’ Union for providing this space to share my experiences and highlight the work being done to make the music industry a more inclusive place.

To my fellow trans and non-binary artists: your voice matters, your music matters, and together, we can continue to break barriers and reshape the industry for the better.