Hayley Kiyoko is an American singer, songwriter, and actress who has become a trailblazer in pop music, especially for the LGBTQ+ community. Her music, often reflecting themes of love, identity, and self-expression, has resonated with many listeners, and her distinct sound combines pop with elements of R&B, electronic, and indie.

Before stepping into the spotlight as a solo artist, Hayley was known as a member of the girl group The Stunners, which disbanded in 2011. After the group’s breakup, Hayley focused on her solo career. In 2013, she released her first EP, A Belle to Remember, which showcased her ability to blend catchy pop melodies with introspective lyrics. While the EP was a promising start, it was clear that her full potential as a solo artist was yet to be realised.

Her first full-length album, Expectations (2018), was a breakthrough in her career. But before that, she released several singles that gave a taste of her evolution as an artist. One of the key tracks during this period was ‘Girls Like Girls,’ a 2015 song that became an anthem for many in the LGBTQ+ community. The track, with its catchy beat and unapologetic lyrics about same-sex love, quickly became a fan favourite and marked Hayley as a voice of inclusivity and empowerment. Other notable singles during this period were ‘Cliff’s Edge’ and ‘This Side of Paradise,’ both of which continued to explore themes of love, self-discovery, and the complexities of relationships.

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…her first EP, A Belle to Remember […] showcased her ability to blend catchy pop melodies with introspective lyrics

Expectations was a turning point for Hayley. The album combines pop with electronic influences, creating a sound that feels both fresh and distinctly hers. It includes the widely popular track “Curious,” which further solidified her position as an advocate for LGBTQ+ representation in music. The album received critical acclaim for its honesty and vulnerability, with songs that speak to the struggles and triumphs of finding one’s place in the world. In addition to ‘Curious,’ other standout tracks from Expectations include ‘I Wish,’ a song about longing and self-reflection, and ‘Feelings,’ which explores the uncertainty of new love. The album marked a major milestone in Hayley’s career, showing her growth not just as a performer but as a person coming into her own.

After Expectations, Hayley continued to release singles that further refined her sound. Songs like ‘She’ (2020) and ‘For the Girls’ (2022) kept her on the radar, continuing to explore themes of love, vulnerability, and self-awareness with a pop-forward, anthemic sound.

Hayley has also expanded into acting, appearing in several television shows and films, but her music remains her central focus. She’s also become an important figure in advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility, with her music and public persona offering a space for fans to connect with her on a deeper level.

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…a great place to start is Expectations. It’s her most cohesive album and best showcases her growth as an artist

If you’re new to Hayley Kiyoko’s music, a great place to start is Expectations. It’s her most cohesive album and best showcases her growth as an artist. From there, you can dive into her earlier work like A Belle to Remember and the singles that shaped her career. Keep an eye out for her newer releases, too—she’s always evolving and exploring new ways to express herself.

Whether you’re drawn to her infectious pop hooks, her heartfelt lyrics, or her fierce authenticity, Hayley Kiyoko’s music has something for everyone.