August is fast approaching, and you know what that means for the Queen City: Charlotte Pride 2026. This year’s celebration will be host to four unique and inspiring musical talents who are sure to get you up on your feet. Over the weekend of Aug. 15–16 these fantastic performers will make Pride an event to remember.
Flyana Boss — Aug. 15
Flyana Boss, the high-octane hip hop duo composed of Bobbi LaNea Tyler and Folayan Omi Kunerede, are certain to electrify Charlotte Pride 2026. Hailing from Los Angeles and meeting while at the Musicians Institute, the pair identify as a part of the queer community and have rapidly ascended from creative collaborators to industry heavyweights. Their rise to national prominence was fueled by the breakout success of their 2023 hit “You Wish,” which captured the internet’s attention through their inventive and fast-paced TikTok content, featuring the duo running through iconic locations nationwide.
Their journey is a testament to the power of persistence and creative ingenuity. After signing with Atlantic Records in 2021, the duo released several acclaimed EPs, including “Boffum” and “Make It a Double,” showcasing their sharp lyrical flow and undeniable stage presence. Their magnetic energy has not gone unnoticed; beyond their own headlining “Bosstanical Garden Tour,” they have supported heavy hitters like Janelle Monáe and Kesha, solidifying their status as formidable performers in the modern music landscape.
Despite their rapid ascent, the duo has faced the typical scrutiny that comes with viral fame.
When critics questioned their repetitive content style, hip hop icon Missy Elliott famously stepped in to defend them, remarking that their approach was an “old school tactic” and that changing things up often “confuses” people. This endorsement cemented their place in the hip hop canon and highlighted the industry respect they have cultivated.
Now making their highly anticipated debut at Charlotte Pride, Flyana Boss will bring a fresh, vibrant and unapologetic sound to the festival. Their performance promises to be a centerpiece of the weekend, celebrating the spirit of community and artistic freedom. Whether you’re a longtime fan of their viral hits or discovering their unique sound for the first time, Flyana Boss is ready to turn up the volume and make Charlotte Pride 2026 unforgettable.
Isabella Lovestory — Aug. 15
Isabella Lovestory, the stage persona of Honduran-born, Montreal-based artist Isabella Rodríguez Rivera, is a trailblazing force in the world of “perreo-pop.” Blending the infectious, high-energy rhythms of reggaeton with the adventurous spirit of experimental pop, her music creates a sonic landscape that is as provocative as it is empowering. Since beginning her career in 2018, Lovestory has carved out a unique lane, evolving from early SoundCloud mixtapes like “Juguete” to critically acclaimed studio albums such as “Amor Hardcore” (2022) and her 2025 sophomore release, “Vanity.”
Her ascent in the industry is marked by her distinct ability to reshape genres and defy expectations. Whether she is contributing to global hits like LE SSERAFIM’s “ANTIFRAGILE,” performing at Coachella alongside Mura Masa, or earning a Juno Award nomination for Latin Music Recording of the Year in 2026, Lovestory consistently pushes boundaries. Her music is frequently celebrated for its bold themes of women’s empowerment and self-expression, inviting listeners to embrace their desires without apology and challenge conventional societal standards.
A fixture in inclusive music spaces, Lovestory is a celebrated figure at events that champion queer-inclusive lineups, such as her high-profile appearance at the LadyLand festival. She views her artistic identity as a creative persona designed for self-discovery, often using her platform to explore the complexities of beauty and fragility. Describing the philosophy behind her latest album, “Vanity,” she shared: “Thematically, this album explores fragility, how easily a mirror shatters, but it also explores the indestructible and eternal essence of beauty. I don’t mind when things break, I like to collect the pieces and create something new.” With her boundary-pushing sound and unapologetic artistry, Isabella Lovestory will bring a vibrant, high-octane energy to the Charlotte Pride 2026 stage, offering a performance that is sure to resonate deeply with the Queen City.
Lauren Sanderson — Aug. 15
Lauren Sanderson is an American singer-songwriter currently based in Los Angeles, whose music defies easy categorization by blending influences from pop, R&B, hip hop and rock. Originally from Fort Wayne, Indiana, Sanderson’s journey to the stage began with an online presence as a YouTube personality during her high school years. She gained early recognition for her motivational TEDx talk, “For God’s Sake, Just Love Them,” which focused on her experience coming out as a lesbian and fostering healthy parent-child relationships — a clear indicator of her identity as an active member of the LGBTQ community.
Her musical career took off after she began channeling her experiences into songwriting, influenced by artists like Mac Miller, Logic and Tyler, the Creator. Following the success of early EPs like “Center of Expression” and “Spaces,” Sanderson signed with Epic Records, gaining significant industry attention. Over the years, she has proven her staying power with a prolific discography, including albums like “Midwest Kids Can Make It Big,” “Death of a Fantasy” and her 2026 self-titled release, “Lauren.”
Sanderson is not only a dedicated artist but also a frequent performer at Pride events, previously taking to the stage at LA Pride and Pride Night for the LA Sparks. Her work often serves as a powerful voice for her listeners; as she has stated, she aims to be “the voice for people who may not be able to speak.” With a career marked by independence and artistic evolution, Sanderson continues to create music that resonates deeply with her queer audience. She is sure to bring a unique blend of seductive energy and introspective lyrics to the stage at Charlotte Pride 2026.
Bryan Ruby — Aug. 16
Bryan Ruby is a rising star in country music, distinguished not only by his expressive baritone voice and authentic storytelling but also by his trailblazing journey as an LGBTQ+ activist. Named a 2026 Nashville Scene “Artist to Watch” and the winner of the seventh season of “Nashville Rising Song” with his performance of “Any Day Now,” Ruby brings a rare depth to the genre, born from his unique history as a professional baseball player. After spending years living on the road while grinding through independent-league baseball, Ruby channeled that grit into his music, establishing himself as a compelling voice for resilience and authenticity.
His musical identity is rooted in the narrative traditions of country music, with projects like his 2025 EP “Growing Season” and the 2026 release “Playing With Fire” garnering critical acclaim from outlets like The Tennessean, MusicRow and The Nash News. His work has earned rotation on SiriusXM Country and placement on major playlists such as Spotify’s “All New Country” and “Fresh Finds: Country.” Beyond his artistic achievements, Ruby made history in September 2021 by becoming the first active professional baseball player in the United States to publicly come out as gay, using his platform to advocate for inclusion and support for young players from underrepresented communities.
Reflecting on his path and the intersection of his passions, Ruby emphasizes the power of persistence. As he has stated: “Baseball and country music are part of the fabric of our great country. If there’s one message I hope people hear in my songs, it’s that hard work and heart can carry you through even what the world tells you are insurmountable obstacles. You can earn your place by following your passion, no matter who you are.”
With his honey-bourbon vocals and a powerful, honest perspective, Bryan Ruby is poised to make a memorable impact as he takes the stage at Charlotte Pride 2026.
This story is brought to you by Rosedale Health and Wellness and Dudley’s Place.
