Celebrating the legacy of ‘Girls Like Girls’
On the occasion of the 11th anniversary of the song ‘Girls Like Girls’, the journey of both the track and its artist, Hayley Kiyoko, is noteworthy. Released in, this single emerged as a significant cultural landmark for the LGBTQ+ community. It particularly resonated with young women navigating their identities. This year, Kiyoko plans to expand the song’s impact by releasing a film adaptation, providing a new narrative for many coming-of-age experiences.
The roots of a queer anthem
When Hayley Kiyoko released ‘Girls Like Girls’, she was forging her identity in the music industry. This song was pivotal, marking not only her rise as a pop star but also her emergence as a voice for the queer community. At a time when mainstream music often sidelined LGBTQ+ narratives, Kiyoko’s track boldly claimed space for lesbian representation. The accompanying music video, telling a poignant story between two young women, captivated audiences and quickly amassed millions of views.
The impact of a queer anthem
For many individuals, including those in the LGBTQ+ community, ‘Girls Like Girls’ has significantly influenced their personal journeys. The song’s release coincided with numerous coming out experiences, shaping how people navigated love and heartbreak. It emerged as an anthem at social gatherings, where the music video was often played on repeat, fostering a sense of connection among listeners. Hayley Kiyoko’s authenticity, expressed through her lyrics and visuals, resonated deeply, allowing many to feel seen and understood during crucial moments in their lives.
The evolution of ‘Girls Like Girls’
Today, Kiyoko continues to expand her artistic legacy. The song has now evolved into a young adult novel, delving deeper into the themes of love and self-acceptance introduced in the original music video. Kiyoko is also directing the film adaptation of her novel, which shares the same title, ‘Girls Like Girls’. This project highlights her growth as an artist and her dedication to creating narratives that resonate with the LGBTQ+ community.
Anticipation for the film
The recently released trailer for the film has created significant interest, featuring two young women of color, portrayed by Maya da Costa and Myra Molloy. The story aims to reflect the essence of the original song and promises to explore the emotional dynamics of first love and the accompanying challenges. Kiyoko, who co-wrote the screenplay with Stefanie Scott, the original music video star, marks a pivotal moment in her creative journey with this project.
Why ‘Girls Like Girls’ remains relevant
The continued relevance of ‘Girls Like Girls’ stems from its authentic portrayal of queer experiences and relationships. As societal norms evolve, the core themes of love and identity continue to resonate universally. Hayley Kiyoko's work not only amplifies LGBTQ+ narratives but also cultivates a sense of belonging among her audience. Her fans affectionately refer to her as Lesbian Jesus, highlighting how her music empowers them and fosters validation within the community.
In recent interviews, Hayley Kiyoko has expressed gratitude for the connection she shares with her fans. She emphasizes the importance of community and support in her music. Her journey from child actor to pop icon highlights the transformative power of representation in media. With the film’s release set for June 19, 2026, Kiyoko’s influence appears poised to inspire new generations.
Celebrating this milestone, it is important to recognize the impact of ‘Girls Like Girls’ not only as a song but as a movement. It has encouraged many to embrace their true selves. The upcoming film adaptation serves as more than a retelling; it continues a narrative that has already touched countless lives.