The vibrant energy of Los Angeles’ WeHo Pride Weekend reached a fever pitch during the flagship music festival, OUTLOUD, held on June 1st and 2nd, 2024. Headlining the event was the electrifying Janelle Monae, who surprised the crowd with an unforgettable cameo from two A-list celebrities: Queen Latifah and Gabrielle Union.
A Night to Remember: Stage Takeover and Epic Dance Moves
Videos posted by Union on her Instagram account captured the electric moment. Latifah and Union can be seen leading Monae to the front of the stage, the energy is palpable as the crowd roars with excitement. The camaraderie between the three is undeniable, culminating in a phenomenal display of synchronized dance moves, including the now-viral twerking moment with Monae. Backstage photos and videos showcase the trio’s genuine friendship and enjoyment of the evening.
WeHo Pride and the Power of Community
OUTLOUD serves as the centerpiece of WeHo Pride Weekend, a two-day celebration of LGBTQ+ pride held annually at West Hollywood Park. This year’s event boasted a star-studded lineup, featuring captivating performances from artists like Kesha and Adam Lambert, alongside the headlining set by Janelle Monae.
A Celebration of Collaboration and Friendship
Union’s attendance at the festival wasn’t just about enjoying the music. She was accompanied by her longtime stylist, Larry Sims, who previously collaborated with Monae for a striking photoshoot in The Hollywood Reporter’s 2021 Beauty Issue. Sims, known for his innovative and daring hairstyling, spoke fondly of creating a voluminous updo for Union at the 2021 British Fashion Awards, describing it as “over-the-top and grand” and a testament to their creative collaboration. Union echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of friendship in their creative process: “We have a good-ass time. If it’s not fun, it doesn’t feel creative.”
Beyond the Spectacle: The Enduring Legacy of WeHo Pride
The unexpected appearance of Queen Latifah and Gabrielle Union at Janelle Monae’s WeHo Pride performance transcended mere entertainment. It served as a powerful symbol of unity and allyship within the LGBTQ+ community. The celebration itself, WeHo Pride Weekend, represents a longstanding commitment to inclusivity and the fight for LGBTQ+ rights. The event’s vibrant atmosphere and diverse lineup of performers create a safe space for self-expression and joy.
Janelle Monae, Queen Latifah, and Gabrielle Union: Trailblazers and LGBTQ+ Allies
All three of the stars who graced the OUTLOUD stage are vocal advocates for LGBTQ+ rights. Janelle Monae, who identifies as non-binary, has consistently used their platform to champion LGBTQ+ inclusivity. Queen Latifah, a longtime LGBTQ+ ally, has spoken out against discrimination and for marriage equality. Similarly, Gabrielle Union, a vocal supporter of LGBTQ+ rights, has used her platform to advocate for acceptance and understanding.
WeHo Pride: A Celebration That Continues
The electrifying performance by Janelle Monae, Queen Latifah, and Gabrielle Union serves as a highlight of the 2024 WeHo Pride Weekend. However, the true significance of the event lies in its ongoing mission to celebrate LGBTQ+ identity, foster a sense of community, and advocate for equality. The energy and spirit of WeHo Pride will undoubtedly continue to inspire and empower for years to come.
