How Music In 2015 Helped Influence SCOTUS' Marriage Equality Ruling

Music is one of the many modes through which we can discuss political and social issues. And it's an important one.

Countless artists have advocated for gay rights throughout the years. Macklemore & Ryan Lewis promoted same-sex marriage at the 2014 Grammys when they performed "Same Love." Lady Gaga's "Born This Way" was groundbreaking for LGBTQ liberation in 2011.

SCOTUS' ruling in favor of same-sex marriage this morning has been a long time coming, and artists who have advocated for this throughout the years now see the culmination of their efforts. Today marks a milestone in our country's history, and it should also mean something for music specifically. Let's promote more positive messages surrounding same-sex rights and relationships, and put an end to the homophobia that is still present.

The following are moments in music from this year that have promoted same-sex rights. Let's fill the rest of 2015 with messages like these.

Jennifer Hudson's "I Still Love You" Video

For which she teamed up with the Humans Rights Campaign. #TURNITUPFORCHANGE

Sam Smith's Video for "Lay Me Down"

Miley Cyrus' Happy Hippie Foundation

And #InstaPride efforts.

Empire's Jamal coming out to his homophobic father in "You're So Beautiful"