Sabrina Carpenter: “Pop Music Wouldn’t Exist Without the Queer Community”

“I don’t think pop music would exist if it wasn’t for the queer community,” says Sabrina Carpenter, highlighting the vital role LGBTQ+ fans play in shaping pop culture.

A Heartfelt Tribute to the Queer Community

If you’ve ever vibed to Sabrina Carpenter’s infectious pop anthems, you already know her sound carries a magnetic charm. But behind the catchy hooks and stellar vocals lies a deep appreciation for the queer community, which Carpenter recently opened up about in an insightful chat with fashion icon Marc Jacobs for Perfect Magazine.

When asked how the LGBTQ+ audience has influenced her artistic journey, Carpenter didn’t hold back. She boldly stated, “I don’t think pop music would exist if it wasn’t for the queer community.” That’s a powerful declaration, but it rings true. The energy, creativity, and passion of queer fans have undeniably shaped the landscape of pop music, lifting stars and trends into the cultural spotlight for decades.

“I don’t think some of our greatest pop stars would exist if it wasn’t for the queer community.” – Sabrina Carpenter

Carpenter’s words pay homage to the countless queer icons and fans who have fueled the genre’s evolution. She went on to emphasize how personally connected she feels to this vibrant community: “I feel so deeply connected. I mean, some of my greatest friends and collaborators and artists that I know are a part of the queer community or are just so celebratory of it.”

The sense of kinship Carpenter describes echoes through her work and public appearances, showing how intertwined pop music and queer culture truly are.

Using the Spotlight to Advocate and Celebrate

Sabrina’s commitment goes beyond words. At the 2025 MTV VMAs, she turned her performance of the poignant track “Tears” into a powerful statement for trans and LGBTQ+ rights. The stage was alive with energy, featuring a troupe of drag and trans performers holding signs that read “Protect Trans Rights,” “In Trans We Trust,” and “Support Local Drag.”

This wasn’t just a performance — it was a rallying cry, a celebration of courage and identity. Carpenter’s platform is clearly one she wields with purpose, championing inclusivity and love in an industry that hasn’t always been welcoming.

Caption: Sabrina Carpenter lights up the 2025 MTV VMAs stage with a meaningful performance.

Coachella 2026: A Star-Studded Celebration of Art and Legacy

Carpenter’s momentum didn’t stop there. The pop star made headlines with her incredible double-header at Coachella 2026, where she showed her flair for blending nostalgia with fresh, modern energy.

During the festival’s first weekend, she invoked the glamour of old Hollywood, sharing the stage with legends like Susan Sarandon, Sam Elliott, Samuel L. Jackson, and Will Ferrell. It was like stepping into a classic movie scene, only it was real, alive, and pulsating with music and star power.

Then, things got even more epic in week two when Madonna surprised fans by joining Carpenter on stage. Together, they performed iconic hits “Vogue” and “Like A Prayer,” plus a new, unreleased track — a beautiful nod to how pop icons and rising stars can come together to create unforgettable moments.

Learning and Growing: A Humble Apology

In the midst of her soaring success, Sabrina showed a refreshing dose of humility. After her first Coachella set, she mistakenly identified "Zaghrouta," a celebratory Arabic chant, as yodeling. Recognizing the mix-up, she quickly issued a sincere apology, saying:

“My apologies, I didn’t see this person with my eyes and couldn’t hear clearly. My reaction was pure confusion, sarcasm, and not ill intended. Could have handled it better! Now I know what a Zaghrouta is! I welcome all cheers and yodels from here on out.”

It’s moments like these that make Carpenter feel genuinely relatable — a star who’s learning and growing alongside her fans.

From Rising Star to Pop Titan

While Sabrina Carpenter’s star is shining brighter than ever, her rise to pop royalty was no overnight miracle. Last summer, she headlined BST Hyde Park in London, captivating the crowd with hits like “Espresso.” Critics praised her performance as a testament to years of hard work and dedication.

One review highlighted how “Espresso” propelled Carpenter from a promising artist orbiting pop’s girl league to one of its reigning champions, stressing that her mastery of this space was “a testament to the years of graft it took to get there.”

It’s that blend of perseverance and passion that makes Carpenter’s music resonate so deeply with fans across the spectrum.

Why the Queer Community is Pop’s Lifeblood

Thinking back over the history of pop music, it’s clear the queer community has been a vibrant and indispensable part of the story. From disco divas to club kids, from the pioneers who challenged norms to the fans who made songs anthems, the LGBTQ+ influence is woven into every beat.

Sabrina Carpenter’s heartfelt acknowledgment of this fact is more than just a shout-out; it’s a recognition of the creative powerhouse that has shaped the genre’s identity.

Her collaborations, friendships, and performances echo this truth, proving that when pop music and queer culture dance together, the result is pure magic.

FAQ

• How has Sabrina Carpenter expressed her support for the queer community?
  She openly credits the queer community for shaping pop music and includes LGBTQ+ performers in her shows, such as during her 2025 MTV VMAs performance advocating for trans rights.
• What notable artists joined Sabrina Carpenter at Coachella 2026?
  In week one, legends like Susan Sarandon, Sam Elliott, Samuel L. Jackson, and Will Ferrell joined her. In week two, Madonna made a surprise appearance, performing classics with Carpenter.
• What was Sabrina Carpenter’s reaction to her Coachella mistake regarding Zaghrouta?
  She apologized sincerely, explaining her confusion was unintentional and expressed openness to learning and embracing different cultural expressions.
• Which song is mentioned as a highlight in Sabrina's rise to pop prominence?
  The track “Espresso” is noted for catapulting her into pop stardom and reflecting her years of dedication.
• How does Sabrina Carpenter describe her connection to queer friends and collaborators?
  She feels deeply connected and grateful, considering many of her closest collaborators to be part of or celebratory of the queer community.

If Sabrina Carpenter’s vibrant energy and celebration of queer culture inspire you, why not bring that passion home? Shop your favorite album cover posters and iconic pop art at our store — the perfect way to keep the music and spirit alive in your space.