Cover Photo By MUNA-Save The World 2019
MUNA: a queer band that consists of members Katie Gavin, Josette Maskin, and Naomi Mcpherson, have been in the music industry since 2016/2017. The band opened for Harry Styles on his first headlining solo tour and is now joining Kacey Musgraves for the Starcrossed Unveiled Tour in 2022. MUNA has established a name for themselves and a fan base that connects to them on a personal, deep level. All three members are a part of the LGBTQ+ community and openly advocate for all of their fans to embrace whoever they want to be.
Identity and sexuality are topics that are not typically discussed in music. Of course, love and finding yourself have been themes in songs since the beginning of time, but until recently, there have been barriers for the queer community in terms of representation. In a 2019 interview with Gay Times, Gavin commented “the world is literally and metaphorically on fire…yes, we’re a band, but we’re also people living on Earth cognitive of the fact that there are so many structural changes that need to be made”. Throughout MUNA’s discography, this is very evident. The band creates music that packs a punch in a way you can’t quite explain. Is it the effortless harmonies, indie production, or the overall message? Perhaps it’s a combination of all three.
The lyrics of “I Know a Place”, one of their biggest songs, says “when you get nervous, you think being yourself means being unworthy, and it’s hard to love with a heart that’s hurting”. These words resonate with their fans and music listeners because it’s authentic. Having an open space to explore identity is important, and for a lot of people, music is that space. Their album, Saves the World, was released in September of 2019, but it received more feedback a year later. The three members have the ability to connect and stand out from other artists. When you listen, it feels like you can have fun with them and forget about your worries.
In 2021, MUNA released the single “Silk Chiffon” featuring another queer music icon, Phoebe Bridgers. By adding Bridgers's voice to their sound, the song was immediately elevated. The singer is openly bisexual and is an advocate for people in the LGBTQ+ community. Through statements on her social media and interviews, we know that Bridgers is unapologetic and embraces all that MUNA stands for. The collaboration went viral and has become their biggest song to date.
Overall, MUNA radiates energy that other artists should take notes on. Their musicality combined with their style lights up any performance and stage. I personally saw them live in Boston at TD Garden, opening for Kacey Musgraves. I was not too familiar with the band, but as they started, I was instantly hooked. You could tell everyone listening was impressed, and the mood of the entire stadium changed after the first song. It was a perfect place to be in the moment, enjoying music and the people around me. I hope that MUNA continues their music and realizes how big of an impact they have on all communities and listeners.