Billy Porter Makes Uplifting Playlist to Raise Spirits During Coronavirus Pandemic

The Human Rights Campaign has enlisted the help of Emmy-winning actor Billy Porter to create a playlist to lift spirits during the coronavirus pandemic.

Porter’s “Raise You Up” playlist features feel-good songs from the likes of Elton John, P!nk, Shea Diamond, George Michael, and Aretha Franklin. It also features his LGBTQ Pride anthem “Love Yourself.”

“To help you through these difficult times, I’ve put together a playlist, and I’m sharing with you some of my favorites so that it can maybe brighten the day a little bit, share some light, keep you inspired right now,” Porter said of his playlist in a video. “Stay safe, stay sane, because we need you in the fight.”

Porter’s playlist is part of a HRC’s HRCares, a virtual care package to make coping with the coronavirus quarantine easier. Along with Porter’s playlist, the care package includes a message of support from TLC stars Nate Berkus and Jeremiah Brent, a recipe from chef Melissa King, and a reading of a powerful James Baldwin poem by HRC President Alphonso David.

“During these unprecedented and challenging times, out strength and resilience lies within our community and with each other,” said HRC President Alphonso David. “More than ever, it is important to send a message of support to uplift the LGBTQ community and our allies who are directly—and all too often disproportionately—impacted by COVID-19.”