Demi Lovato Reveals the Meaning Behind Queer Anthem “Cool For the Summer”

By Judy Bokao

Demi Lovato has become a household name after she shooting to fame at a young age. Although Demi Lovato started out as a child actor, she later decided to release music and soon established herself as one of the most talented singers of this generation in the music and acting industry. Her powerful vocals and writing skills have led her not only to get numerous accolades but have helped her talk about various issues she has faced.

In July 2020, Demi first came out as queer and a few years later, she identified as pan-sexual. She has always been upfront about her fluid sexuality and has never shied away from talking about the LGBTQ+ community. She is one of the few famous people who have spoken at length about their evolving sexuality and the importance of accepting and exploring gender and sexuality.

For Demi, it has been a journey of learning and embracing her authentic self in the glaring eye of the public. When Demi first came out as queer in 2020, she didn’t use a label. But in 2021, she clarified she is pansexual. She spoke of her fluidity and how she is attracted to people of all genders, regardless of gender identity or sex.

During her interview on “The Joe Rogan Experience”, the talented 28-year-old at the time unapologetically discussed her sexuality. She told Rogan, “I’m so fluid now, and a part of the reason why I am so fluid is because I was, like, super closeted off.” Demi candidly spoke about how realized she liked women and the shame she it caused her to feel.

Later, in 2021, Demi came out as non-binary, meaning she doesn’t identify as male or female. At that time Demi started using they/them pronouns. Demi took to Instagram where she explained that, although she was no expert, the decision came from a lot of healing and self-reflective work. Later, in 2022, Demi decided to use she/ her pronouns again, stating she felt more feminine.

Some people have give Demi flack for changing her pronouns, but who says she isn’t allowed to rediscover herself? I find it remarkable that she wrote ‘Cool for the Summer’, a queer anthem, eight years ago, long before she publicly came out. It shows she was starting to feel secure in her sexuality even before she came out. So whether they judge or not, we know Demi’s message is incredibly powerful for people who experience gender in a similar way.

Recently, Demi was on The Howard Stern Show, where she revealed her renowned 2015 hit song “Cool For The Summer” was about a famous woman she hooked up with. As expected, Howard tried to get her to reveal the woman who inspired the song, but Demi is no snitch. She kept it tight-lipped, saying it is too late to reveal her name and she wants to respect her current relationship.

If you have not heard “Cool For The Summer”, proceed to YouTube and do yourself a favor. Part of the lyrics go like this: “ Tell me if it’s right, if it’s wrong , I don’t care. I can keep a secret, can you? And “ Got my mind on your body and your body on your mind.” She implores her crush to keep the rendezvous a secret.

I don’t know about you, but I believe Demi is truly incredible. She continues inspiring us to live authentically as she discusses her sexuality and gender journey. Demi’s pride resonates with us as we are sick and tired of ‘society’ forcing us into conformity and labels. Demi embraces her sexuality fluidity and embodies what Pride is all about: exploring who we are and how that changes over time.

About the Author:

Judy Bokao is 20 years old and was born in Ethiopia but relocated to Nairobi two years ago. She is passionate about everyone having equal rights and is also big on conservation and speaking up for our planet. Judy loves reading and photography and is just a free-spirited young lady trying to grow into a woman her mom can be proud of.