Charli XCX is recognizing the fans who supported her before mainstream music embraced her sound. The singer recently reflected on how the queer community shaped her career. She also explained why giving back to those fans remains important.
Charli XCX says she wouldn’t be the artist she is without the queer community that uplifted her
During an interview with Newsweek, Charli credited the queer community for supporting her earliest musical ambitions. She explained that her first fans belonged to the community and that her first performances also took place in queer spaces.
“I would not be the artist I am without the queer community,” Charli shared. She explained that those fans understood her vision when the wider music industry did not. Their support helped her feel comfortable as both an artist and a person.
“When the rest of the music industry didn’t really get or understand my vision, the queer community did,” she said. Charli added that fans “uplifted me and made me feel comfortable in who I am.” She emphasized that giving back mattered because her career depended on their support.
The singer shared these reflections while headlining a National PrEP Day celebration in West Hollywood. The October 10 event was organized by MISTR, a telehealth platform focused on HIV prevention. Charli praised its efforts to reduce stigma surrounding sexual health.
“Looking after your sexual health is just such a normal thing to want to do,” she explained. She noted that shame still surrounds conversations about HIV prevention. Charli welcomed efforts to bring these discussions into cultural spaces.
Her advocacy also connects her with Madonna, whom she called “the blueprint for all of us.” Charli praised Madonna’s HIV/AIDS advocacy during a period of greater stigma. She said following Madonna’s example offered an opportunity to continue that conversation.
“The queer community and my queer fans in particular have given me the confidence to trust myself and trust my instincts,” Charli said. Her comments highlight the role her queer fans played in supporting her music career before mainstream recognition.
