This past Saturday, October 4, a legend was honored in a way only legends can be. The National Blues Museum in Downtown St. Louis awarded Martha Wash a Lifetime Achievement Award, celebrating her immeasurable contributions to music—and to the hearts and dance floors of multiple generations, especially within the LGBTQIA+ community.
Often referred to as “The Queen of Clubland,” Martha Wash is more than a powerhouse vocalist—she is a cultural force. From her early days as one half of The Weather Girls (“It’s Raining Men,” anyone?) to her indelible vocals that defined ‘90s house anthems—often uncredited but never unnoticed—her voice has been the thunder that powered our most joyful moments.
And now, at long last, she’s receiving the flowers she’s always deserved.
READ ALSO: The Marvelous Martha Wash Is Thankful She’s Still Here—And So Are We
“Honoring Martha Wash is honoring the very heartbeat of American music,” said Dr. Robert Nelson, Executive Director of the National Blues Museum. “From gospel pews to dance floors, her voice carries the soul of our shared history—rooted in the blues, raised in rhythm, and lifted by faith. She reminds us that the power of music is not just to entertain, but to heal, to unify, and to testify.”
For many in the gay community, Martha Wash is more than just a singer—she’s an icon. Her music has been the soundtrack to coming-out stories, pride parades, sweaty club nights, and kitchen dance parties alike. Her vocals didn’t just soar—they shielded, celebrated, and strengthened us.
Whether it was her empowering anthem “Carry On” (a post-AIDS crisis call to survival) or the soul-stirring harmonies of “Gonna Make You Sweat (Everybody Dance Now),” Martha’s voice has carried countless queer souls through dark nights and into the light.
Martha Wash at the National Blues Museum
The award ceremony concluded with a deeply intimate, private performance by Ms. Wash herself—a rare and moving gift for those lucky enough to be present. Even now, decades into her storied career, her voice remains as rich and commanding as ever. It wasn’t just a performance—it was a benediction.
At a time when queer voices are still fighting for space and recognition, Martha Wash stands tall as a reminder: authenticity, talent, and soul will always rise. Her journey—from being hidden behind others’ faces in music videos to owning her image, her sound, and her legacy—mirrors the fight for visibility so many in our community understand.
So to Ms. Martha Wash: thank you. For your voice. For your strength. For your resilience. You didn’t just give us music. You gave us permission to feel fabulous, to dance hard, and to carry on.
