ARTist Feature Magazine | Summer 2021 [Issue No.05]

OUR MISSION To provide a platform that brings artists together in collaboration with one another; while also giving readers a closer look into the lifestyle of an artist and the perspectives that make each of us unique.

OUR VISION To create content of value that Empowers and Educates the next generation of the arts community; while also sharing stories of inspiration that brings people together.

BE INSPIRED.

JOIN THE MOVEMENT.

EDITORS LETTER

SUMMER 2021

ISSUE No. 05

PUBLISHER / EDITOR IN CHIEF ARTavius Veasey CONTRIBUTORS Christina Frank Shane “ChicoFit” Huggins Kevin Burts Carol WIlliams

ARTist Feature is an international digital + print quarterly creative lifestyle and empowerment magazine; With an objective to featuring diverse creatives, mindsets, and personal journeys of artists in the industry.

Find us on Social Media @ArtistFeatureMag

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Stand in your Light

IAMARTCAMPAIGN.COM/MAG

Growing up in the south as a feminine, gay man of color came with many challenges as I grew into an adult. Understanding what I could and couldn’t, do, where I was accepted to go and not go, and much more. I also understood that no matter the hardship or circumstances that life may throw, stay the course. In due time, you will f ind your tribe and like-minded individuals. They will make life a little easier to handle and be supportive when you need to talk. Never dim your light or creative expression in fear of what others may say or think of you (That’s, not your business). Continue to shine bright and light the path for those after you. Remember, everything that happens to you is necessary for you to become the person you were created to be, and your journey will be a testimony for somebody else. Hang in there! I believe in you. Embrace the struggle because it wont last always.

ARTist Feature Magazine reserves the right to edit all materials for clarity, space availability, and suitability for publication. ARTist Feature must give permission for any material contained herein to be reproduced in any manner. Any advertisements published in ARTist Feature Magazine do not constitute an endorsement of the advertiser’s services or product.

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TABLE OF

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CONTENTS EDITORS LETTER FROM MY DESK: Stand in your light 05

HEALTH+FITNESS

HEALTHY SUMMER FUN: Summertime Nutrition Tips

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CHICOFIT: Are you ready to sweat? 09

BEAUTY+FASHION

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FEATURE: Charles Warren

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DESIGN+CREATIVITY

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INTERVIEW: Moth Moth Moth

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FEATURE: Karon Wilson

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COVER STORY

THE ART OF PRIDE: Exploring The Colors of the Rainbow

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34 COMING NEXT ISSUE

THE ART OF PERFORMANCE

ON THE COVER

For our Fall Issue, we’re highlighting diverse creatives in the area of performance; Showcasing dancers, figure skaters, actors, comedians, makeup artists, musicians, and more; Exploring the commonality they all share as creatives and diving deep into their personal journeys of being top performers in their chosen field.

Email us your stories, ads or ideas to:

INTERVIEW: Tammy & Mekke 39 INTERVIEW: Jennifer & Vanessa 40 INTERVIEW: Larry & Antonie 41 INTERVIEW: Patrick & Robert 42 INTERVIEW: Lee & Monica 43 INTERVIEW: Dell & Carol 44

BUSINESS+ENTERTAINMENT

Models:

Morris SIngletary, Fantasia Bordeaux, Imani Vanzap & Gee Smalls

artistfeaturemag@gmail.com

SPECIAL ICONS Video Clip

ENTREPRENEUR: Essential Tips for New Entrepreneurs 31 ARTIST TO WATCH: Tony ForresTT 33 ARTIST TO WATCH: Bry’Nt 34 COMMUNITY: Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood 35 ADVICE: The Power of Being Unapologeically YOU 37 MENTAL HEALTH: Hacking into Happy Brain Chemicals 38

LOVE=LOVE

ISSUE No. 06

WANT TO BE FEATURED?

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LIFESTYLE

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FALL 2021

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Buy Item

More on website

INTERVIEW: David Cork INTERVIEW: Swanny River INTERVIEW: Bella DuBalles FEATURE: Love Don’t Hurt INTERVIEW: Will Ryder

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HEALTH+FITNESS

SUMMERTIME NUTRITION TIPS

by Christina Frank

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All that abundant sunshine in the summer can cause dry skin and hair, eye damage, and other ailments. Find out which vitamins and minerals can counteract sun damage.

Summertime and the living are easy -- that is, until you notice the havoc all that fun in the sun has wrought on your body. Fortunately, summer also brings an abundance of tasty and nutritious foods, including berries (loaded with antioxidants), tomatoes, sweet bell peppers (good vitamin C source), and protein-filled grilled fish and burgers.

And by simply choosing the right ones to add to your daily diet, you can help prevent or alleviate the following common hot-weather woes:

What causes it: You sweat more in the summer, so skin is less supple; plus, saltwater and chlorine have a drying effect. Sunburns and bug bites are also saboteurs of healthy skin.

What to eat: Help heal weathered skin with foods like raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries, which are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C. Protein, in the form of lean meats, beans, nuts, and seeds, is also key. Keep dryness at bay by drinking lots of water, which Lona Sandon, RD, calls “the forgotten nutrient.”

Sandon is a spokeswoman for the American Dietetic Association. She recommends that women drink 92 ounces (8-10 cups) of water in the summer and men 125 ounces to prevent dehydration. Since calcium can also be lost through sweating, it’s a good idea to replace it by eating low-fat dairy products like skim milk, yogurt, and cottage cheese.

YEAST INFECTIONS

What causes them: Sitting around in a wet bathing suit provides a perfect environment for yeast overgrowth.

What to eat: To make conditions less hospitable for yeast to take hold in the first place, cut back on sugary foods, advises Leanne Ely, CNC, author of Saving Dinner: The Menus, Recipes, and Shopping Lists to Bring Your Family Back to the Table.

PARCHED HAIR

What causes it: Overexposure to sun, saltwater, and chlorine.

What to eat: Toss some burgers or shrimp kabobs on the grill, or make a three-bean salad or other protein-rich meal because hair consists of protein fibers called keratin. Eating foods rich in vitamin B-5 (found in yogurt and California avocadoes), vitamin B-8 (in liver and cooked eggs), folic acid (in fortified cereals and beans), calcium (in milk and yogurt), and zinc (in meat and fish) can reduce hair loss and replace dull hair with shiny hair. These nutrients also play a role in maintaining healthy skin.

MUSCLE CRAMPS

What causes them: Too many games of beach volleyball (or other outdoor exercises). Muscle cramps result from overexertion and dehydration. When you don’t have enough fluid in your system, it leads to an electrolyte imbalance that causes your muscles to cramp up. Sodium, calcium, and potassium are

the main electrolytes lost through sweating during exercise.

What to eat: Replenish electrolytes with a sports drink that contains them and drink water. Potassium-rich foods include bananas, raisins, potatoes, and spinach.

EYE DAMAGE

What causes it: Age-related macular degeneration is the most common cause of vision loss and blindness in people over the age of 55. This occurs when the central part of the retina (macula) becomes damaged.

What to eat: The retina is actually made up of vitamin A, Ely tells WebMD. Thus, foods rich in this vitamin -- along with beta-carotene, zinc, and Vitamins C and E -- are beneficial to the eyes. Good sources are dark green vegetables like kale, chard, and mustard greens, plus bell peppers, carrots, and blueberries. Eat eggs for their high dose of lutein, an important antioxidant that also helps prevent eye damage.

COLD SORES

What causes them: Sun exposure can trigger cold sores in people who are prone to them.

What to eat: The amino acid L-lysine has been shown in some small studies to help, but larger studies are needed to confirm these findings. Sandon says a deficiency in B vitamins and riboflavin can make you susceptible to cold sores. She recommends eating fortified cereals and bread or taking a B-complex vitamin.

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DRY OR DAMAGED SKIN

IAMARTCAMPAIGN.COM/MAG

CHICOFIT HEALTH+FITNESS

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ARE YOU READY TO SWEAT? Hey Chicolites! I’m here to give you just a couple exercises that you can do in the space of your home to get you toned and sweating.

Today we will be doing a Core Cardio Workout! You only need 25 minutes and can do these anywhere, anytime!

Each exercise should be performed for 45 seconds with 25 seconds rest between each, and 1 minute rest between each pair. All five exercises are equivalent to 1 cycle and should be completed for a total of at least 4 cycles.

This time we’re going to pair up the exercises. Complete each pair (1A & 1B) 3 times then move to the next pair.

1B

EXERCISE TWO

2A

2B

1A: Hot Foot Knee Strike 1B: Woodchopper (Bent Arm)

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2A: Hop & Squat 2B: L-Hold Jack knife

Shane (ChicoFIT) is originally from Bridgetown, Barbados but has lived in St. Vincent and the Grenadines for 18 years where he received his primary and secondary education. He believes greatly in the words of St. Augustine, “Faith is to believe what you cannot see, the reward of this faith is to see what you believe.” By this, he exudes onto others their ability to reach their health and fitness goals by looking deep and believing in themselves.

their goals through HIIT Training, resistance training, as well as sports specific training.

He realized the need to push people past their comfort zones and has applied this to each person through positive encouragement and constant reminders of the euphoric and life-changing benefits looking after your body has. He has seen nothing short of outstanding results by doing this including working with TV Personalities and high-class clientele on Resort Islands in the Caribbean.

Shane has been in the fitness industry for the past 7 years after completing his qualification with the Shane has been immensely devoted to his work and enjoys helping live happier, healthInternational Sports Sciences Association. ier, and longer lives. He applies his beliefs to Since his Personal Training Qualification, Shane himself and is always keen and excited to moved to South Africa and has worked with put his professional skills and knowledge to many clients around the world providing exercise good use. and nutritional plans and helping them reach

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1A

EXERCISE ONE

EXERCISE THREE

EXERCISE FOUR

3A

4A

3B

4B

3A: Push-Up Knee Tap 3B: Crunch N Thrust

4A: Sumo Squat 4B: Knee Tuck Shredder

EXERCISE FIVE

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5B

5A: Squatting Running Man 5B: Banana Bicycle Tuck

DON’T FORGET!

Each exercise should be performed for 45 seconds with 25 seconds rest between each and 1 minute rest between each pair. All five exercises are equivalent to 1 cycle and should be completed for a total of at least 4 cycles.

FOLLOW CHICOFIT @Chico Rudy Huggins @ChicoFitHuggins

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BEAUTY+FASHION

13 IAMARTCAMPAIGN.COM/MAG Charles Warren, a serial Entrepreneur has created an eco-friendly recovery brand. Charles Warren Presents, a family-owned and operated sore muscle, hygiene, and joint recovery brand. All of our products are handmade in North Carolina and powered by essential oils & herbs to facilitate the natural healing process.

Elevate your self care routine with products crafted to assist the world’s top Athletes and the working Mother next door.

FOLLOW CHARLES @CharlesWarrenPresents @TheCharlesWarren www.CharlesWarrenPresents.com

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Thongs

Boy Shorts

Briefs

Jockstraps

DESIGN+CREATIVITY

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IAMARTCAMPAIGN.COM/MAG

Would you categorize Moth as a Drag Artist or Drag Queen, why and what’s the difference?

Both! And I personally use the terms pretty interchangeably. Since my interest and focus leans on femme I’ll always and forever be a Queen. But I think there is so much expansion happening in drag at the moment that Drag Artist is a great professional catch-all.

At the end of the day, drag is about revealing multiple truths through fantasy. I suggest folks not be hung up on labels.

It becomes infantilizing and reductive for the artform.

When watching you perform on stage I love observing the way you bring a song lyrics to life; is there a certain process you go through when picking or per-

forming a song?

Stage time is about the only time I think clearly.

Everything turns to clear crystal. I can see more things in people’s eyes.

My process for putting a lipsync performance together starts in the mirrors to get the words and emotional core, and then after that, it’s a blend of lip-syncing while doing push-ups and trying not to bite my tongue off while dancing. Once the moment comes I tend to throw it all out the window and just let Sky Lady move through me.

Coming from the same Art college ‘Memphis College of Art’, it’s been a pleasure watching you grow into your artistry of creating Moth Moth Moth and your amazing paintings, what are your goals to where you want to go next with your creative talent?

Right now I would like to stay alive through the next era, pay my bills, be well, let myself be. But ultimately, I want to join my many Mothers, Brothers, and Sisters in drag to help strengthen the overall drag economy here in Memphis and the greater Midsouth. We are a community rich in diversity and talent. We are still in a process of coming together, but I believe if we work hard and do not traumatize one another with drama, then

five years from now people will be saying, “Oh, yeah! Memphis!

There’s BBQ, Elvis, Trees, Good Water, Good People!, and really good Drag!!!” That is what I want people to say about our city. It’s all true. Just gotta tell the world.

I’ve heard through the grapevine that you’ve been working on a few performance events and showcases, tell us more about that.

Currently, I’m flirting around different venues while also making sure to circle back to all of our local favorites like Dru’s Place and The Atomic Rose. I have found some wonderful reception at the Hi-Tone with my show Mothership, which is built to be a fun show where Drag Artists can come and perform new

ideas and step out of the normal box! I had a brilliant showcase at Earnestine and Hazel’s called The Painted Knife, and we had a fiery night in a cool and spooky venue, and finally, we just don’t know what we’ve created with Rainbow Rumble at Black Lodge. It has been a crazy few months and all I know is I’m deliriously happy to be dancing amongst my people again.

FOLLOW MOTH @MagicalMissMothie Moth Moth Moth is a Drag Queen, Writer, and Visual Artist from The lost planet of Ferina. She is a giant insect angel from another dimension. She’s the leader of The Joy Nation. And the coolest girl in the universe.

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Where did the influence come from for this magical persona?

Mothie has about a thousand inspirations.

But two of the mainline seeds that were crafted into Moth are Sailor Moon and the idea of a heroic character who heals her enemies rather than hurting them and of course Fran Fine from The Nanny. You can look at my style and comedic timing and trace it all back to a smart pretty lady I watched on TV every day.

@ @MagicalMissMothie @MusingWithMothie @MagicalMissMothie www.MagicalMissMothie.com

Another thing I love about Moth is her intricate fashion and attention to detail. Where do you seek inspiration for Moth’s fashion?

Currently, Moth’s fashion is focused on trying to cultivate this image of a cool girl from another world. The focus is on color, texture, and visibility. All of my clothes have been gifted or thrifted.

I own not one custom garment. So my style is very rooted in vintage and charming the hodgepodge together into a cohesive character. I get most excited about that which feels sentimental in fashion.

Sometimes I just pack up all things friends have given me whether it matches or not. Just to be wrapped in good intentions for the night.

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You’ve been performing for quite a few years now and I admire your drive and confidence, but as we know the entertainment industry isn’t so nice at times.

What advice will you give a young aspiring drag performer who’s trying to get into the industry?

Here is my advice to anyone wanting to do drag. Making passive-aggressive social media posts will never get you more bookings or make you more talented. It will only poison your own waters. Talk to people warmly and directly. Give everyone the benefit of a doubt.

And when you need a boundary, make one, but always circle back and evaluate with an open heart. Focus on your health, your specific individual vision for yourself in Drag, and be as good as you can to the humans around you and I promise you will find a foothold somewhere.

Also, it’s just dress-up, so don’t put undue pressure on it all. Go wiggle and have fun. Make Marsha proud.

Being such a positive beacon of light for us a part of the LGBTQ+ community, what has been the most proudest moment you’ve had thus far and why?

My pride comes from getting to see what the beat of a little moth wing can do to a city. More so, I’m proud whenever I can create a space where people can allow themselves to be. I see shadows over the eyes of so many. And somehow, sometimes, under rainbow light and with enough sequins I’ve seen those clouds clear.

It’s one of the greatest things in my life. I’m teary thinking about it all.

Along your journey in the community what has been the biggest challenge you had to face and what has been the biggest lesson you have learned?

My biggest challenge has been my health. I had a horrific seizure in 2018 and it really sent me in a fearful tailspin.

I’m in great health now, but always have to be brave and cautious and listen to my body. My cha cha muscles have never been better, and though I’m a very anxious and somewhat gloomy person by nature, I feel that my drag is now helping me grow past that. Moth is always teaching me what to do next.

What does PRIDE mean to you?

PRIDE means our history together as a queer collective. Pride will be celebrated on Mars and the Moon and anywhere else, for the rest of human history. This I know

to be true.

So what’s next?

Do you have anything coming up later this year or in the near future that we should be on the lookout from you?

My goal is to help Memphis Drag grow and expand and evolve to be bigger and warmer and more lucrative than ever. I want people with drag dreams to move here knowing that there is a thriving ecosystem with room for all stripes. Other than that I’ll continue to grow my talents across Drag, Writing, and Art until I drop dead and I and Lisa Micheals fly away together.

Thank you so much Mothie for your precious time. Keep reaching for the stars and shining bright! Before we let you go, do you have any last words for your supporters or our readers?

Thank you so very much for caring about me and my work. My only words are this, my consummate prayer: I want my flowers, and I want flowers for everyone I know.

DESIGN+CREATIVITY

REEL Specializing in Music Videos, Reality Series, Commercials, Short Films & More

Born and raised in Boston, Massachusetts, Karon Wilson began filming at the age of 16. Starting out doing web series and now an award winning director with over 53k subscribers on youtube has a portfolio that has built an LGBT empire; From short films, reality shows, music videos, and working with celebrities such as Remy Ma, Diddy, G-Unit, Monique, Lil Durk, and more.

FOLLOW KARON @TheRealKaron @GeminiFilmz @GeminiFilmz

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COVER FEATURE

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Being a part of the LGBTQ+ community, what has been the biggest challenge you have faced, and what has been the biggest lesson you have learned?

Self-love and knowing my worth have been my biggest challenges. Believe it or not, I still struggle with these somewhat. Although money is big and helps, there was a time when I had money and bought things. However, When I was diagnosed with HIV, I lost a lot. The greatest was my worth and love for myself. I did not want to live, and I did not know how to live anymore. My diagnosis took a lot away from me, or so I thought.

When I realized I was more than my diagnosis and I put the work back into me.

If you had 60 seconds with your younger self, what would you say and why?

You are everything you need! You are the ques-

tion and the answer. You are the problem and the solution.

What advice will you give to a young person of color who’s struggling to accept their identity or sexuality?

1. God loves you, and that’s all you need. 2. Live your life for yourself. 3.

Drink water and mind the business that pays you.

Do you believe representation is important?

Why or why not?

Representation is very important. Why? I imagine if I saw a black, gay, man who could live out loud and love GOD in church, maybe I would not have secretly lived a life I thought was an abomination. If I had representation, maybe I would see same-sex marriage as a thing and wait until marriage to have sex; yes that was my hope and thought when I had a girlfriend. If I had representation when I was diagnosed, I would not have been thinking about ways to commit suicide. This brings me to today, I have to be a representation for what I did not have.

those who are heterosexuals to celebrate me and mine who live and fight against the things that are against black gay lives and culture.

Before you transition from this life, what mark or message do you want to leave in this world to remember you by?

Wow, I want to be known as the man who fought and won. Whatever that looks like. I fought to get folk into care. I fought to help change policies, I won getting folk into care, I won by changing policies that affect those living with HIV. Any upcoming projects or things we should be on the lookout for from you in the near future?

Stay on the lookout for the growth of The PoZItive2poSitive Initiative, I and II Chronicles (My Book to be released December 2021).

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Who has been your biggest inspiration along your journey in life or career and why?

My biggest inspiration for the work I do is the people who will receive the work I am doing. In my career, Barack Obama and Oprah Winfrey are people I look up to with the hard work they put in to get where they are.

What is your definition of PRIDE? Pride for me is not the people who are living with something. Living gay and black is my experience. With that said, Black Gay Pride is for

Morris Singletary, a fearless HIV advocate, organizer, and public health professional with specific expertise in the area of HIV peer education, storytelling, social media, and public health in the Atlanta and Southern United States. He uses his voice to educate and engage young Black men who have sex with men into HIV care. He is a social media pioneer and guru, using online techniques to educate and engage the masses on HIV-related topics.

Morris has personal experience living with HIV as a Black, Gay, Christian man in the Southern United States. Morris describes his journey from hurt to healing and channeling energies into helping others through his social media platform, PoZitive2PoSitive, where he hosts live chats with guests about not only surviving but thriving with HIV.

FOLLOW MORRIS @Morris Singletary @ @PoZitive2PoSitive @OliverPopeAtl @PoZitive2Positive

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Being a part of the LGBTQ+ community, what has been the biggest challenge you have faced, and what has been the biggest lesson you have learned?

Being a part of the LGBTQ+ community has taught me to be authentically me no matter what. It has taught me not to compromise my integrity, stand up for causes I believe in, and fight the good fight.

Oppression and many door slams have taught me to keep striving to break that glass ceiling with dignity and grace. I firmly believe in wedging my foot through the door, kicking it open, and bringing others with me. Reaching back to bring others forward and

lending others a helping hand is part of my mission in life, but I have learned that you can’t bring everyone with you and that not everyone wants your help. But does that make me change who I am? Absolutely NOT! If you had 60 seconds with your younger self, what would you say and why?

I would tell my younger self to not be so naïve and to toughen up that skin early. There are some truly hurt individuals in this world who enjoy trying to hurt others. I was bullied in school for my effeminate ways. I endured everything from being called all sorts of names, caught up in lies and rumors I knew nothing about, and actually believing that if you treat others respectfully, then they will do the same to you. I am sure that is why to this day I dislike bullying behavior and will stand up or step in when I see it taking place.

What advice will you give to a young person of color who’s struggling to accept their identity or sexuality?

First I would separate this into two issues and tackle them one at a time. I would tell them to love the skin they reside in. Love the color, the texture, and the variety of flavors we possess.

As African Americans, we are rich in history, knowledge, and passion.

When it comes to identity or sexuality, I would let them know that they are uniquely special but just as normal as their counterparts. I would be honest and let them know that they may have some difficulties ahead of them, so don’t give up or give in. I would encourage them to not be afraid to seek support from the multitude of resources that are available now, make sure to nurture their mental health, and most importantly to remain true to the person that matters most…them.

Do you believe representation is important?

Why or why not?

Representation is of utmost importance in our community. We must stay visible in order to let the world know that we will not be silenced.

The variety of voices in the LGBTQ+ community need to be heard to fight for our rights as human beings and make the world better for future generations.

What is your definition of PRIDE? P = power R = resilience I = insight D = determination E = endurance Pride is who we are and what we stand for individually and collectively.

Fantasia Bordeaux is a graduate of Christian Brothers University. She is an LGBTQ+ Advocate and has been a Memphis entertainer for over 25 yrs. She is a former Miss Black Continental and Miss Gay Memphis. In her spare time, she enjoys relaxing, watching movies, shopping, and traveling. She believes in giving back to her community, supporting and uplifting her LGBTQ+ brothers and sisters in their journey through life, being a positive role model, and a voice for change.

Before you transition from this life, what mark or message do you want to leave in this world to be remembered by?

I would want people to remember my spirit, which is a spirit of genuine care and concern, compassion, protection, benevolence, advice, and calling it out. Although I have no kids, either biological or otherwise, my general role has been that of an overall “mother” to the upcoming generation in our community. I hope to have inspired, provoked thought, and enriched my friends, family, and LGBTQ+ sisters and brothers.

Any upcoming projects or things we should be on the lookout for from you in the near future?

I will continue entertaining at a variety of great clubs, venues, and events around town. I have more Trans advocacy work planned for the near future, fundraising for the community, and supporting many great organizations and their causes. I may have a small part in a movie as well…fingers crossed.

FOLLOW FANTASIA @Fantasia Bordeaux @Fantasia Bordeaux @

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Who has been your biggest inspiration along your journey in life or career and why?

My biggest inspiration was and still is that of a STRONG woman. Mainly my mother and grandmother, who had to single-handedly take on multiple roles in order to keep the family dynamic intact. I learned early on to be a go-getter and to be self-sufficient. I do things that I have to do, without sacrificing doing things that I want to do. I try to make life meaningful and extend a helping hand wherever possible to those I care about.

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Being a part of the LGBTQ+ community, what has been the biggest challenge you have faced, and what has been the biggest lesson you have learned?

Well, this is more of an Erik (my nephew/Creator) question. As for me, I appreciated being welcomed into various communities as an ally. I understand the struggles of being misunderstood and how to find the confidence to hold your own space.

If you had 60 seconds with your younger self, what would you say and why?

The main pep I would give is to never make yourself small. Others will be jealous of how much you have to offer. That is their problem, not yours.

GO BIG! Every time!

What advice will you give to a young person of color who’s struggling to accept their identity or sexuality?

You have to know that

your identity and sexuality go hand-in-hand.

They are gifts from above that no one can duplicate. Even if it doesn’t make sense now...keep living. IT WILL! Do you believe representation is important?

Why or why not?

Yes, without representation, there is no need to humanize a person.

This has been done since the dawn of time. Fortunately, in my black skin, I know the harsh American version of this truth.

I pride my platform on giving visibility to people who I feel need it. When we celebrate all shades of color, only then do we have a true rainbow.

all focus and add to that truth, amazing things happen!

Any upcoming projects or things we should be on the lookout for from you in the near future?

I’m in “The Assistant” film sequel by Alex Jante. I have more clack fans coming on my website to sell. There will be new music coming out soon!

I just signed a 3-song Record deal!

What is your definition of PRIDE? Pride is knowing who you are and that knowing gifts you the right to move about this world unharmed and full of love. That is the recipe of self-awareness it’s what sets the people free.

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Before you transition from this life, what mark or message do you want to leave in this world to remember you by?

If you see a need, create its remedy. The world is about handling problems with love so that it can continue to flow freely while being a stopping point for spirits to take on human form. When we

What do you get when you put lightning, luxury, and love in a bottle! Shake it up and out comes Imani Vanzap, social media’s number 1 Auntie. Seemingly dropped to Earth by the angels themselves, Imani began her emergence as the result of 25 years of entertainment industry experience through her nephew, Erik Dillard (Imani’s Creator/Producer/Manager).

Seeing that people’s hearts were growing wearier with each social and global tragedy, Imani felt in her soul that love still mattered and needs a chance to be reborn. Her mission is to help the world heal and feel again. She started with humble beginnings on Instagram in 2018. With nothing more than a cheap blouse, dollar store jewelry, and unfortunate makeup (done by her nephew), the familiar comedic style still managed to spark an immediate audience as she covered pop culture’s hot topics with thought-provoking, spicy, sassy commentary.

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Who has been your biggest inspiration along your journey in life or career and why?

My parents have been the biggest inspiration for me. As a young child, my parents always made me KNOW that I could accomplish anything I put my mind to. I believed them.

FOLLOW IMANI @Imani Vanzap @Imani Vanzap @ @Imani Vanzap @Imani Vanzap @Imani Vanzap www.Imanivanzap.com

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Being a part of the LGBTQ+ community, what has been the biggest challenge you have faced, and what has been the biggest lesson you have learned?

I’m not sure this has anything to do with the LGBTQ community specifically, but I believe the biggest challenge for me is being misunderstood.

When dealing with the public, you are going to have those who do not understand you, ridicule you, or those who are just not going to root for you.

I had to learn that that is okay, and those are not the people I am supposed to impact. I had to learn to get outside of my own ego and know that as long as I keep my intentions pure, I will always “succeed”, and

impact those who I am supposed to.

If you had 60 seconds with your younger self, what would you say and why?

You are beautiful and unique. I love you so much, and no one in this world can ever change that. You are exactly who you are supposed to be, and I don’t want you to ever run away from that.

Those people that may mistreat you, are only doing that because they do not love themselves.

It’s not your fault. You are perfectly made. You will never fit in because you are not supposed to. You are magically different, and as soon as you love that about yourself, the sooner everyone around you will too. I love you.

What advice will you give to a young person of color who’s struggling to accept their identity or sexuality?

Similar to my answer above, I’d say the work is in accepting yourself. Many of us grow up rejecting those parts of ourselves, which takes us down a path of selfhate for many years.

We put our energy into fitting in, or hiding who we are, which never feels good, and never works. I believe if we can just skip that part of the process, it would mean the world.

You are not ever going to be able to change

someone’s thoughts about you, but you can change your thoughts about yourself. We are worthy.

Do you believe representation is important?

Why or why not?

Yes. It’s important for us to be able to see ourselves and tell our stories. Everyone deserves to be seen.

What is your definition of PRIDE? Being unapologetic about who you are, showing up as your authentic self everywhere you go.

Before you transition from this life, what mark or message do you want to leave in this world to remember you by?

I’d like to be remembered for how I make people feel, and hopefully, that’s love.

Any upcoming projects or things we should be on the lookout for from you in the near future?

Our new restaurant, “The Breakfast Boys” (@eatatbreakfastboys) just opened!

Gregory “Gee” Smalls, Sr. is a father, husband, life and relationship coach, entrepreneur, philanthropist, author, executive chef, and restaurateur. He co-created “The Gentlemen’s Ball,” an annual black-tie fundraising gala that celebrates the accomplishments of Black LGBTQ people and benefits “The Gentlemen’s Foundation,” which promotes holistic development of Black men in the LGBTQ community. Gee, his husband Juan, and son Lil Gee live in Atlanta where they operate their first restaurant, Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen & Bar.

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Who has been your biggest inspiration along your journey in life or career and why?

There are lots of people that I admire, and that have inspired me along my journey, but I’d say the biggest inspiration would have to be my desire to completely be who I am and live an authentic life. That goes for what many may consider my ‘accomplishments’ in life, as well as being who I am on a daily basis.

Being my authentic self, and loving who I am, is what has made me who I am today.

FOLLOW GEE @Gee Smalls @Gee Smalls @ @Gee Smalls www.GeeSmalls.com

LIFESTYLE

ENTREPRENEURSHIP:

ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR NEW ENTREPRENEURS

by Kevin Burts

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The entrepreneurship journey is also laden with pitfalls if you are not careful with your decisions or actions.

IAMARTCAMPAIGN.COM/MAG

Starting something new, especially a business can be intimidating and overwhelming for new entrepreneurs. But, the benefits of being your boss are amazing, and you get remarkable rewards. You decide your dress code, working hours, and business goals. The best part is that you follow your dream. The entrepreneurship journey is also laden with pitfalls if you are not careful with your decisions or actions. New entrepreneurs who feel like they are walking on murky waters should follow these pieces of advice to grow and succeed in their ventures.

DO YOUR RESEARCH

You should first do some research before starting any business. You can consider an array of factors such as your customer base, how to get supplies, the knowledge required, and other requirements for the company. Look beyond reading books and find someone who has walked through the same path for some advice. Learn about the challenges of starting the venture and the training or skills required. For instance, you may have to consider a registered agent

service to remain ahead of your competitors.

BELIEVE IN YOURSELF

It’s fundamental to believe in yourself. You don’t expect your clients to believe in your products or services if you don’t believe in them. But, you should also be open to change and critique. New entrepreneurs face a myriad of challenges as they venture into entrepreneurship. As such, you may have self-doubt at some point. But, you need to believe in your business idea and your ability to bring the concept to fruition.

FOLLOW YOUR PASSION

You have decided to take a leap of faith and start your business. The truth is that you need money, energy, and time to succeed in business. An effective way to motivate yourself through the storms of venturing into a new business is to follow your passion. If you are passionate about building houses or advising investors in the real estate sector, do your homework and go for it. You are not guaranteed of succeeding in it, but your passion keeps you going when everything else seems to be against you.

BUILD GREAT TEAMS

DEVELOP BUSINESS PLANS

Another piece of advice for new entrepreneurs is to develop a business plan. Unfortunately, several new entrepreneurs overlook the importance of a business plan for their new businesses. Business plans are a blueprint for succeeding in business. They lay out the concept of your business, how you plan to fit and satisfy your market, and how to handle your finances.

You may also require a business plan to get investors on board or when seeking business funding. You should get an expert to develop your business plan.

It helps you to understand how your company will succeed, your objectives, and the issues you are likely to encounter.

NEVER STOP LEARNING

It’s easy to relax once you get your business up and running and you get a few clients. What new entrepreneurs need to know is that constant learning and evolving are crucial for the success of every business.

Remain on top of the latest technology in your industry and read books and blogs. Seeking advice is also part of learning, and it can take your company to the next level. New entrepreneurs ought to find forums and groups to learn new business tricks and ways of growing their companies. Or constant new programs like aesthetic training or management courses, to keep up in your field.

Challenges lurk behind every corner for new entrepreneurs.

However, they shouldn’t discourage you from pursuing your dreams 32 SUMMER 2021 l ISSUE No. 05

New entrepreneurs need a great team. They often handle challenges on their own, which is not always the best approach. A trustworthy and reliable team to work with assists you to focus on other vital aspects that need your attention while the team handles other details. You can even consider getting a partner for your venture. A great team offers the inspiration you need as you start the enterprise. A great team can entail marketing experts, mentors or role models, accountants or advisors.

Challenges lurk behind every corner for new entrepreneurs. However, they shouldn’t discourage you from pursuing your dreams. Heeding this advice can significantly help you to remain persistent and successful in business.

LOVING THIS ISSUE SO FAR? Join our emailing list so you wont miss none of our exciting upcoming news, events or special promotions.

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LIFESTYLE

ARTIST TO WATCH:

BROOKLYN, NY

SINGER, SONGWRITER & PERFORMER

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DIFFERENT (ACOUSTIC VERSION)

IAMARTCAMPAIGN.COM/MAG The undeniably smooth, raw vocals of Tony ForresTT will leave you transfixed. Accompanied by his transparent songwriting and vulnerable lyrics, this southern born vocalist has the ability to embody the true soul of R&B. Refusing to conform by his family’s strict religious upbringing, Tony found solitude in Brooklyn, New York where he stands proud in his fluidity and authenticity of representation for all. By lyrically captivating nostalgic emotions, and conquering internal demons; every listener is bound to transcend.

FOLLOW TONY @TonyForresTT @Tony ForresTT @Tony ForresTT @Tony ForresTT www.TonyForresTT.shop

LIFESTYLE

ARTIST TO WATCH:

HARTFORD, CT

RAPPER, ACTOR & MODEL

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FOLLOW BRY’NT Bry’Nt began his solo career with the release of his controversial mixtapes ‘Porn Star’ and ‘Porn Star II: The Director’s Cut.’ He has also had the privilege to perform nationally and internationally opening for artists such as Big Freedia, Fantasia, Lil’ Kim, Teairra Mari, Tweet, Dawn Richard, RuPaul, Sevyn Streeter, and Young M.A. In addition, Bry’Nt has been hard at work in fashion and film as a model and actor, but it is his efforts in music that have put the OUTMusic Award nominee at the forefront of an underground movement known as ‘Out Hip-Hop’ consisting of open LGBTQ+ artists.

@BryNtMusic @BryNtMusic @BryNtMusic @BryNtMusic @BryNtMusic

LIFESTYLE

MUSIC

Montero Lil Nas X

Dur& Durand Bernarr

Finding My Way Jordan Chase

Femuline Toddrick Hall

Real Love Ca$hada

Let’s Go There with Terrell & Jarius

Becoming A Living Testimony Podcast with ARTavius Veasey

The CD Effect with Christopher David

The Swirl Talk 901 with Patrick & Alex

PODCASTS

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Trust & Believe with Shaun T

It’s a beautiful day in the

Neighborhood

BOOKS What does ART mean to you?

The Life of Lust Kevyn Mines

Off The Record Camryn Garrett

MOVIES & PLAYS

“ART is anything expressive or creative that shows a part of who you are, tells a story and make you feel something.”

Dyvon MIAMI, FLORIDA

“ART is freeing ourselves so we can express the beauty we see through our individual lens with the world, unapologetically.”

Terrell & Jarius ATLANTA, GEORGIA

The Assistant 2

Timothy

“ART is trusting that little voice in your head that that says, “It’ll be dope if I...”, and then doing it.

That’s ART.” Gary Lavard LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA

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All Boys Aren’t Blue George M. Johnson

LIFESTYLE

ADVICE:

by Carol Williams

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I love inspirational songs, books, and sayings. When I saw Jen Sincero’s You’re A Badass, I had to pick it up. Megan Trainer’s Me Too became my morning alarm (if you don’t know it, listen to the chorus). I love Katy Perry’s Roar and This Is Me from The Greatest Showman brings a tear to my eyes every time I hear it.

What do all of these songs and book titles have in common? They are all about owning who you are and boldly living it in the world.

Being unapologetically you. However, this is not always an easy task. In fact, most of us struggle with being 100% ourselves.

She went on to note that truth-validating thought leaders like Brene’ Brown “validate the idea that so many millions of people today feel disenfranchised as human beings – they feel alone with their pain and vulnerability and they desperately want that to change [that].”

What’s become a differentiating factor in business, careers, and leadership is authenticity. It’s how you stand out and find your tribe. It can be hard to balance between authenticity, value-based choices, and the environment in which you may find yourself. Herminia Ibarra calls it the Authenticity Paradox.

THE POWER OF BEING YOU THE CHALLENGE OF AUTHENTICITY

In a Forbes article by Kathy Caprino entitled “Let’s Face It - We’re Deathly Afraid of Authenticity,” she noted “we’re taught it’s not safe to share the realness of our challenges, and we’re scared to be ostracized and judged. And from a societal perceptive, it isn’t safe. We are scorned, rejected, and alienated when we do.” Instagram and Facebook feeds are often filled with images that work to reflect a perfect life, so honestly doesn’t feel like an option. But I feel that’s changing. Can you feel it too?

I’ve found that the keys to being you rest in you NOT doing these two things: (1) comparing yourself to others, and (2) trying to please others. Both paths prevent you from discovering all that makes you incredible AND all that you can contribute to the world. I’ve written about the idea of authenticity and finding your voice before because it’s a topic near and dear to me. The wounds of my childhood made it challenging for me and there are days where I continue to struggle with it. But I know the freedom that comes with being me.

SUMMER 2021 l ISSUE No. 05

LIFESTYLE

MENTAL HEALTH:

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LOVE=LOVE

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What is your most cherished moment with your partner, and why?

The day we gave birth to our son because we created a family together. He brings so much joy into our lives.

What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome as a couple, and why?

Communication and boundaries. Perception changes based on the viewer we don’t always agree, so we learn to agree to disagree. I’m very social, bubbly, and outgoing; my wife is a more laid back loner.

What advice will you give to a couple before they get married that you wish someone would have given you?

Get counseling before, after, and during the relationship. Relationships are hard work. You got to really work on it; this ain’t for the weak, and definitely is not microwaveable. A strong foundation is not built overnight; it takes time, sacrifice, lots of understanding, and apologies!!!!

LOVE=LOVE

What is your most cherished moment with your partner and why?

I cherish every time I get to stand in the silence of chaos at whatever event we are at or life moment that we are in the middle of, and we pause and for just a second and soak in the magnitude of the impact of what we can accomplish together.

What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome as a couple and why?

“MAKING TIME FOR OURSELVES!!!!” Vanessa is from Los Angeles, California and I am from Memphis, Tennessee. Those places are worlds apart and for the first 5 years 2002-2007 of our relationship, we lived in Los Angeles. That was really hard for me, so we decided to move back to Memphis and have been here ever since. We spend most of our “Vacation time” going back and forth to visit family and friends there.

What advice will you give to a couple before they get married that you wish someone would have given you?

Learn how to be a more compassionate person towards others in general. We constantly work on filling each other’s cups so that we can be better, not only for ourselves but for others. I now tell others to “Exceed your partner’s expectations” and I still get that flashback to a very special time when I met a woman not much older than myself today and was given the key to a wonderfully happy marriage.

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LOVE=LOVE

41 IAMARTCAMPAIGN.COM/MAG

What is your most cherished moment with your partner, and why?

Our wedding day is one of our most cherished moments. We were so young and hopeful. We had our families around, and it was the beginning of our adventure.

What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome as a couple, and why?

We were both in school at the same time and not working for the first time. We had to depend on each other and sacrifice our lifestyles.

What advice will you give to a couple before they get married that you wish someone would have given you?

Leave your expectations behind. Accepting a person for who they are and not for who you believe they can/should be.

LOVE=LOVE

What is your most cherished moment with your partner and why?

For me, it’s when Rob stepped up after my stroke, and Rob feels it is the wedding.

What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome as a couple and why?

My stroke was honestly the biggest challenge for both of us. I was a horrible patient. Lol, I love him, and he loves me, but I know there were some difficult times during that phase.

What advice will you give to a couple before they get married that you wish someone would have given you?

Rob and I both would advise that communication is the key. You have to be able to talk about your problems or issues. No matter what they are. And it’s alright to go to bed angry, just don’t stay that way.

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LOVE=LOVE

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What is your most cherished moment with your partner, and why?

The moments when we learn from each other. As we come from different cultures and there are many things we want to share. I am learning about hunting, and he is learning about the tradition of Dia de Los Muertos. It’s the way we can continue to grow as a couple.

What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome as a couple, and why?

I believe in adapting to each other, in knowing that we must respect our differences and appreciate what we are forming as a family.

What advice will you give to a couple before they get married that you wish someone would have given you?

Give yourselves freedom and space, you can be a couple, but that does not mean that you have to like the same thing and do everything together.

LOVE=LOVE

What is your most cherished moment with your partner and why?

Both of us treasure the times we spent together when we worked at Mud Island. We were young, falling in love and everything was new and fun.

What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome as a couple and why?

The illnesses and deaths of our parents and siblings. Both sets of our parents and Dell’s sister all passed away between 2000 and 2013. We were young and were raising our kids and taking care of sick and dying parents. Despite the trauma and stress, we grew closer and stronger as a couple because we both supported our families and most importantly EACH OTHER when it was needed.

What advice will you give to a couple before they get married that you wish someone would have given you?

Despite your best laid plans and hopes, sometimes things don’t always end up the way you thought they would. And that’s ok. Open your mind and heart to all possibilities and always be grateful for the love you receive. Always continue to grow separately and as a couple.

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@Its_SunnyintheShade

@ItsSunnyintheShade

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JOIN THE CONVERSATION

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SUPPORTER HIGHLIGHT

Our supporters (#TeamIamART) is the heart of the entire I AM ART Campaign operation; This is a team made up of diverse creative and non-creative youth, aspiring artists, allies, industry creatives, and entrepreneurs. Working together, believing in the mission of the campaign to help empower the next generation of artists.

We’re incredible individually, but together, we’re unstoppable.

Please continue to send and tag us in your I AM ART Merchandise, brightens our day.

Either email your pictures to: iamartcampaign@gmail.com or tag us on social media: @iamartcampaign #iamartcampaign

If you want to get you some I AM ART merch you can go to: www.iamartcampaign.com/store

BE INSPIRED.

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SUMMER 2021 l ISSUE No. 05

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BUSINESS+ENTERTAINMENT

47 IAMARTCAMPAIGN.COM/MAG

Being a part of two-hit tv shows out now on STARZ, Run the World & Power III: Raising Kanan, congrats! What has been the most exciting thing you’ve done so far on each show?

Thank You! On Run the World, meeting Amber Stevens West and Yvette Bowser was the most exciting part. I have been a huge fan of Yvette’s for years and Amber was/ is my celebrity crush so getting to work with her was a dream come true.

Raising Kanan was fun to

work on based on wardrobe alone. I got to wear some classic 90s shirts and suits which made getting into character a breeze.

Out of both of these shows, are either of the characters you play similar or close to who you are in real life, and why?

Neither is exactly like me but both have pieces of me. Chris’s nightlife lifestyle reminds me of me when I first moved to New York. Richie has a level of playfulness that mirrors my personality.

As we know, the acting industry is very difficult to break into. What advice will you give to an aspiring actor who wants to get into the industry?

Be yourself. Practice patience. Don’t be afraid to create your own work.

I saw that you’ve been singing since you were a child. Do you still sing today as an adult, or do you have any music out that we can listen to?

Singing kind of took a back seat as I got older, but I recently reconnected to music during the quarantine. My grandfather was a jazz musician and I ordered his vinyl.

Since listening to it, I have been writing songs and practicing guitar so give me a year, I’ll have some music for you.

What type of music do you gravitate towards most and who are some of your favorite artists?

I am a huge lover of R&B and Soul. Especially 90s R&B. I really dig H.E.R, Jazmine Sullivan, and Bruno Mars.

Identifying as an openly bisexual man of color, what has been the biggest challenge you had to face, and what has been the biggest lesson you learned?

The biggest challenge is that not everyone will accept me. I used to feel like I had to cover up who I was to be accepted, but the lesson I learned is to always be true to myself.

No matter what.

Speaking of bisexuality, I see you created “Bi: The web series”, which I must add, it’s soo good! I’m ready for another season! For those who may haven’t seen it, give us a brief overview of the web series and what is your goal for the show?

David J. Cork is an actor, writer, singer, and filmmaker from Indianapolis, Indiana. As a child, David was a member of the Indianapolis Children’s Choir, allowing him to sing at Carnegie Hall and the Sydney Opera House at an early age. Once at Broad Ripple High School, David began exploring acting and soon after started performing in community theater.

Since arriving in New York City, David has not only appeared in numerous commercials, plays, television shows, and movies but became a pioneer in actors creating their own work. His first written work, Bi: The Web series, featured David as the lead role and received public attention once featured in publications like The Huffington Post, NBC OUT, and Now This.

Thank You! I created that show back in 2014 and when people still mention it, it brings me so much joy. Bi: The Web series is a show about an openly Black and bisexual man named Alex Walker, who is juggling love, work, and reality in New York City.

My goal for the show was to give visibility to bisexuality because I had never seen it on television at that time.

Now, I would love to do what Issa Rae did with Awkward Black Girl and revamp the series and pitch it to networks. The plan is currently in motion. Wish me luck.

I saw this movement you’re a part of called No Homo | No Hetero.

Tell us more about it and how this project came to fruition. If I’m not mistaken, you’re making a documentary about this as well?

No Homo | No Hetero is a movement to celebrate and de-stigmatize Black bisexual men. It’s a community where other Black bi+ men can come together to connect with each other to prevent further isolation. Currently, there is a support group called The Black Lotus Project, where folks come together to talk about a variety of topics. I am working on a documentary (more like a docu-poem) to invite audiences to experience how Black bi+ men live

FOLLOW DAVID @David J. Cork @DavidJayOkay @David J. Cork @4ubius @David J. Cork www.ItsDavidJay.com

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Who is your biggest influence in pursuing acting, and why?

My family has been a huge supporter of my career. My mom always pushed me to do art, whether it was singing, acting, or writing, she has always been there, every step of the way.

I am very inspired by Issa Rae and Chadwich Bosman (RIP). They have this “go-getter” vibe that I truly admire.

and love authentically at the contentious intersection of racism, biphobia, and toxic masculinity. It’s been an honor to capture their stories and with the project currently in post, I’m looking forward to sharing it with the world.

What does PRIDE mean to you?

Pride to me means standing up and loving who you are. To look in the mirror and love the person looking back at you despite their flaws, that’s pride.

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Being multitalented with acting, singing, writing, and filmmaking, if you had to pick one, which of the four do you like the most and why?

This is impossible for me to answer because all four are such a huge part of me. There are some things I cannot express in writing, so I’ll sing it.

There are some things I cannot express in acting so I’ll put it in a film. All of these gifts are opportunities to express myself and most of the time, they go hand in hand with each other. They all make up who I am and I have come a long way in loving myself that I can’t choose just one way of expression.

I adore your strength

of being unapologetic about your vulnerability. We know as black men that’s looked down upon and not acknowledged. What inspired you to be open with your vulnerability and why do you think it’s so important?

I feel as Black men (and Black folks in general) we are often taught to be hard or tough. And I have seen some people I love carry so much weight on them that it made them sick. Physically and Emotionally. The media has capitalized on this too. Many tv shows and movies have depicted us as these one-dimensional tough guys. I wanted to share with the world that we aren’t all one-dimension. We have layers. And I wanted to show my Black brothers and sisters that vulnerability isn’t a weakness, it’s a strength. I believe that it is my duty with my art to teach all humanity to embrace the beauty of their vulnerability. We only have one life and we should live it being authentically ourselves.

Any upcoming projects you have coming out later this year or in the near future?

I am releasing a short film called Ellis By Himself which

is about a man isolated in the pandemic forced to confront his mental health. It was written by Eric Yang and I. That will be coming out this September. You can look out for it at EllisByHimself.com. I’m also shooting nother TV show, that I can’t share just yet, but follow me on IG for more details.

David, thank you so much for your time; Before we go, do you have any last words for your supporters or our readers?

Thank You for having me! Thank you for allowing me to be my authentic self, and for all the readers, Keep on doing you. Be You and You’ll be great.

BUSINESS+ENTERTAINMENT

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I love watching you live or on a video showing your process of creating a beat or just having a jam session with your supporters. Where do you seek inspiration for each new beat/material you create?

The inspiration for the beats comes from the sounds themselves. For example, I’ll hear a sample, listen to it over, and over and believe it or not, I asked a simple ques-

tion, “What do you want me to do with you?”.

Sometimes I’ll chop up the sample and then I’ll let the music take me exactly where it wants to go; It’s all music driven.

Music takes a hold of me and I allow it to do what it wants through me.

I’ve always been curious about the name Swanny River; What’s the story or meaning behind it?

LOL! the name started in junior high school. We were having a school party and my teacher asked, “If I wanted to DJ?” I was a well-known DJ in the hood, so I said “yeah”.

My name back then was DJ Graveyard, so as I played this school party, my homegirl Marisol told me “Wow! I like the way you scratch, you’re so graceful like a swan”.

Then something clicked and I said, “Hey, I like that

name”. So I changed it to DJ Swan. Now, one day I was home watching TV late at night and saw an old episode of The Honeymooners. The character Ralph was on a game show and he didn’t know an answer to the question “Who composed the song Suwanee River?” We all know it’s Steven Forster, (I know I’m showing my age) lol! but I heard the name Suwanee River, and once again It clicked.

So I changed My Name Again, but I spelled It differently, Swanny River.

For those who may not know, you have your own music label called ‘The Swanny River Music Group (S.R.M.G).

Tell us the story and inspiration behind the label?

Well the idea of S.R.Music Group/RWS RADIO is to have a place where the LGBTQ Hip-Hop & RnB artists can have their music played. I see some stations like anything on FM radio won’t play these great artists. They stuck

Swanny River is a no-nonsense deejay and producer from Brooklyn, New York with an extensive list of credits and a discography that dates back to 1989. His fiery passion for hip-hop is shown in his unrelenting desire to constantly raise the bar and show his skills behind the boards. It’s fueled his staying power, making him a beacon for generations of artists eager to feed on his fervent energy.

Mix-tapes is one of River’s many specialties but he is a very multi-faceted individual who also hosts the Weekly Mixtape Radio Show Rollin With Swanny & A House Music Set Called House Music Saturdays (Every Friday & Saturday 10pm est) And His Own Radio Station RWS Radio On the All Digital Radio Network.

on the NON-Sense. They rather keep the rich, rich, and overlook real talent like my LGBTQ fam. We have crazy talent! They’re just afraid that we will take over. However, all in all, my companies are for the empowerment of my LGBTQ Hip-Hip & RnB fam.

I heard through the grapevine that your group ‘The AlliYance’ is back and just released a new project.

Congrats! Tell us more about that.

Yeah, The AlliYance just dropped a new project it’s called Supergroup.

This album takes you on a musical ride with four extremely talented individuals; you will also hear the growth between

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When was that defining moment when you realized you wanted to be a producer, and why?

I started as a DJ; but that moment came in my 20’s when I went to a studio called ‘Power Play Studio’ in Queens, NY. I was with a group called The BOSS MC’s, which was managed by the legend Spyder Dee. There I met an engineer by the name of Patrick Adams.

He was working on a song by the legendary Group Touch feat. Fonda Rae called Touch me.

While I watched him work the controls, that’s when it hit me, “I WANT TO DO THAT”.

FOLLOW SWANNY @Swanny River @srmg_rwsradio @Swanny_River MrSwannyRiver01

this album and the first one. There will be a couple of surprises on this album. On our last album introducing the AlliYance, that album was 95% produced by me, the rest by Earthtone, and I believe IKP. This new album, Earthtone did his thing plus we have a few other producers that contributed to this album who also did amazing work. I’m very proud of this album, and I’m proud of my brothers. The new project can be found on all streaming platforms and download sites.

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I love the brotherhood that each of you has with one another. How was the group brought together and what message are you guys pushing out there with your music?

Yeah the brotherhood between us is something that I think is gonna last forever. The way we came together it’s a very long story but I’m going to try to make it as short as possible. One day Earthtone hit me up because he wanted me to mix and master his project. Now I didn’t know Earthtone from a hole in the wall; he said that he heard about me from someone else and at that time I needed the money, so I said yeah, I’ll do the work for you. Let me just say when I heard him spitting, I was like where have you been all my life. So I let IKP and Mista B hood hear him, and they were like, “Yes this dude is dope”.

So long story short, I ask would he do a song for my mixtape called ‘I Be On It’ with me, IKP, and Billy for my mixtape, he said yeah, and it was history from there. I told IKP we should put a group together, and everybody was down.

We were searching for a

name one day it came to me the AlliYance; There’s a ‘Y’ in that name because of IKP, he saw that someone else had that name, so to break it up, he decided to put a ‘Y’ in there, and the AlliYance is born.

Being a producer in New York City as the ‘Voice of the Underground’, what is the biggest lesson you have learned thus far after years in the music industry?

This industry is very very shady. People will walk all over you just to get their piece of the pie. Not knowing there’s enough for everybody. People are so hungry to be megastars and would do anything to get it.

There are consequences like: When a major label gives you a large check for the product, and a time frame; if you don’t deliver, you’re stuck with them until you do. Some people get shelved and won’t be able to drop anything until you fulfill your commitment, that sucks.

What does Pride mean to you?

Freedom to be who I want to be. I don’t need anybody telling me I can or can’t do something. I don’t want to hear that, I’m free to be me. Fearless. Love.

Along our creative journey, at some point, we have come across people trying to discourage us from pursuing our creative endeavors; what did you do when you were faced with negativity amongst your craft and creativity?

What I did was NEVER STOP!!! Because if you let the negativity in, YOU WILL NOT GO FORWARD... I make sure I keep a pos-

itive attitude, and never take NO for an answer.

Just remember, when one door closes, another one opens. That’s life. I’m always walking through those doors or sometimes KICKING IT OPEN LOL! What advice will you give to an aspiring producer who wants to get into the industry?

NEVER GIVE UP! I know it may sound dorky, but it’s true. Don’t let anyone Take Your Happiness Away. If this is something you want to do and it doesn’t have to be music, it can be anything. Do WHAT MAKES YOU HAPPY. Do it for you, F**K Everybody Else. Another thing, always remember, opinions are like a**holes, everybody has one... so DO YOU! Before you transition from this life, what mark or message do you want to leave in this world to remember you by?

Someone who loved what he did, cared about his community, loved his group and the people he worked with and tried to make people happy with his music and DJing.

So what’s next? Any upcoming projects or things in the process to be released in the near future?

Oh yeah, a lot is coming down the pipeline.

We have volume two of supergroup coming out real soon. Mista B Hood, IKP, and Earthtone are all dropping solo projects as well. My two radio shows are coming back for 2022 ‘Rollin Wit Swanny’ and ‘House Music Saturday’s.

I’m still working with upand-coming LGBT artists, that’s something I will never stop because I like it when the newcomers reach to me for advice, and then with the music to sound real good they come to uncle Swanny, I love that. I’m thinking about releasing another mixtape, but that’s not until maybe the summer or the fall of 2022.

Thank you so much Swanny for your time and chatting with me, before I let you go, any last words you have for your supporters or our readers?

To all my supporters, present & future, I just want to say, THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART. You mean the world to me. There’s no me without you; Especially my LGBTQ HipHop Community. UNCLE SWANNY LOVES & SUPPORTS YOU until my Lord and Savior call me home.

I promise to always be there for you, all you have to do is call me and I’ll come running.

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Having such a Southern Belle charm, where did the influence come from when creating Ms. Bella DuBalle?

Like many queens, my stage persona is a conglomeration of some of the most influential women in my life. First

and foremost, I think Bella is a large part of my mom – Southern hospitality, genuine charm, and a heapin’ helpin’ of “love everybody until they give you a reason not to.”

Apart from my real-world maternal influence, there were a lot of other ladies that inspired me: Miss Piggy, Dolly Parton, Lucille Ball, Fran Drescher

(particularly as Fran Fine), She-Ra: Princess of Power, Xena: Warrior Princess, Buffy the Vampire Slayer… I could go on!

All these icons shaped my internal perception of “woman,” so when I set out to create my drag persona, I found she was already there inside me, mostly formed, and just waiting for an outlet.

Bella is just the part of me that the binary world likes to label “feminine.”

Your stage presence is so commanding and entertaining to watch, what is your process like when preparing for your next performance?

Thank you! I’ve been acting since age seven, about 20 adult years professionally (I’m 41 now). I got my BFA in Theatre Performance, helped found the Tennessee Shakespeare Company where I taught and performed for six years, so I’m definitely no stranger to the stage.

Those many years of experience certainly

One thing I love about Ms. Bella is she’s such a Dynamic Queen; Not only is she a stellar performer & entertainer, but she’s also an actress, acting coach, show director, and a multiple crown-winning pageant queen, how do you manage to juggle all these hats?

I guess I’m accustomed to juggling hats. Many of

Speaking of show director, we heard through the grapevine that Season 3 of your drag competition War of the Roses will be starting up soon, tell us more about that.

It will indeed!! Season One was an unprecedented success, then Season Two raised the bar SO high – so I simply cannot wait to see what this third bouquet of Roses has in store!!

War of the Roses is my brainchild of a drag show, heavily influenced by popular competition shows like RuPaul’s Drag Race, Dragula, and the Ballroom-inspired Legendary. Each season, nine entertainers compete for cash and prizes (Season Two’s prize package totaled

We heard Bella is also a Marriage Officiant!

That is so amazing, I don’t think I ever heard a drag queen being an officiant. How has that been for you and how have others responded to it?

Many folks don’t know, but I was a Missionary Baptist Minister before I came out. After my church family turned its back on me and

The Bluff City Bombshell, Bella DuBalle is the Show Director and Hostess of Atomic Rose. Her drag career spans nearly a decade and includes such highlights as being named one of the Seven Hottest Women in Memphis by The Memphis Flyer and reigning as Miss Gay Tennessee America 2015. Whether she’s hosting the Mid-South Pride Parade or The Orpheum’s Rocky Horror Picture Show or her very own local competition “War of the Roses,” Bella’s Southern hospitality and genuine charm always provide a reason to #KeepYourEyeOnDuBalle!

As a drag entertainer, what has been your proudest moment and why?

I guess for me it was my first turn at Miss Gay America. I had just

FOLLOW BELLA @BellaDuBalle @MissBellaDuBalle

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honed my stage presence and taught me a lot about commanding a performance.

For me, every song is a story. I won’t perform music I don’t connect to and know well. I have to get into the world, the character, and find myself in the circumstances the song demands.

I choose a look that fits the mood of the piece, and I ensure I know every breath (not just the words) of my track.

There’s a small amount of physical preparation, but I don’t overthink my movement too much, as I prefer to adapt to the energy of the moment as much as possible.

my previous jobs have demanded multi-tasking, and after 20 years of myriad diverse career paths, I suppose I’ve also amassed a bevy of skills that are now at my disposal – which probably makes me appear FAR more capable and adept than I am! So long story short (too late) it’s just age, dear.

well over $3,600!) over eight weeks. Each week, there is a themed performance category as well as a runway. The bottom two competitors must ‘Lip-Sync For Their Life’ in order to remain in the game. It’s VERY exciting. These insanely talented performers coming out with their absolute A-game, and knowing how much is on the line – it’s simply electrifying to watch. It’s the only show of its kind; there’s nothing else like it anywhere around, so it’s an easy phenomenon to get hooked into. You get invested in the competitors, you wanna come back week to week and see how they do – it’s really something you have to experience! Season 3 begins Friday, October 1st at 10:00 PM at Atomic Rose. And stay tuned for War of the Roses AllStars in 2022!!

kicked me out, I found myself drawing closer to the Source free of any particular doctrine or religion. Once I had fully accepted myself and how I was created, I realized that my call to the ministry was still valid - maybe even more so now that I found myself in a community filled with people who had been deeply wounded and/or ostracized by organized religion.

Many of these folx have no desire to re-commune with “church” at large, but they still have spiritual needs. They still have marriages, funerals, and other life passage rites and ceremonies that deserve to be honored. I am still called to be there for these people and attend to those needs.

I’ve married more than a dozen couples, several of the weddings I was actually asked to officiate in geish (drag)! So the reaction from OUR community is overwhelmingly positive. And anyone outside of this fold isn’t mine to worry about, so I’m not concerned with their opinions of my ministry.

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placed First Alternate to Miss Gay Tennessee, so they told me I was going to Nationals. I had never imagined this would be the case, so the national competition wasn’t even on my radar when I got my ticket.

From there, I had THREE WEEKS to get ready for the largest, oldest pageant for female impersonators in the world, and I had been doing drag for about a year at the time. I was absolutely terrified! It was the worst case of imposter syndrome I’ve ever experienced; I felt like I didn’t belong there with all these Queens who were so seasoned and polished (and WELL FUNDED). But nevertheless, she persisted!

I did what I do with what little I had, and I placed 7th overall. I was one of the first newcomers, and at that time one of the first girls from Tennessee, to ever crack the Top 10. I was elated. It was extremely validating and instilled in me newfound confidence as a drag entertainer.

I notice your mother is one of your biggest supporters if not your biggest supporter.

I can only imagine how proud she is of you and how grateful you may be to have a supportive parent. As we know, everyone in the community doesn’t have that support from a parent or family for their artistic expression, so what advice can you give to those young aspiring performers who may not get the support they yearn for from a parent or family?

First and foremost, you are correct – I am unspeakably blessed to have been born to a

mother with a heart big enough to love me as I am. Her support, encouragement, and truly unconditional love are pivotal factors in my success and happiness.

As you said, far too many of our siblings don’t have familial support for their art (or their lives in general). To them, I say: find your tribe, your people, your community, your CHOSEN family. There are so many of us with so much love to give, so much life experience to share, and we all desire a sense of connection, safety, and belonging.

Identifying as Non-Binary in the LGBTQ+ community, what has been the biggest challenge you had to face, and what has been the biggest lesson you have learned?

The biggest challenge I face – even in the Queer community – is a lack of understanding and acceptance about non-binary identities. When I’m not in drag, most people presume based on physical features (regardless of what I’m wearing) that I’m male and will address me as such. I don’t fault anyone who doesn’t know – it’s not on them, at least for the first encounter or so.

But when someone knows, and they repeatedly misgender me (using incorrect pronouns or other strongly gendered

language), it starts to feel intentional. Not to the extent that someone is actively trying to hurt me, but such that they have decided their own comfort is worth more than my sense of self, or perhaps that they know me better than I know myself, or that my identity isn’t valid enough to recognize and respect.

It’s a lot to unpack – but suffice to say, we should all strive to respect one another’s name and pronouns.

The lesson I’ve learned from swimming against the current is to keep on being who I am. I was sure of who I was back when everyone was telling me I couldn’t be that.

I know who I am and how I feel better than anyone else, and my only responsibility is to be true to myself. Love yourself first, and let the rest of the world catch up.

For those that don’t understand or approve, I’ve no time – “what other people think of me is none of my damn business” as RuPaul says. My job is to be the representation I needed to see as a child - to set the example and lead the way for other young queer kids that will come after me so they know they are beautiful and perfect and most certainly not alone.

What does PRIDE mean to you?

To me, Pride is no longer being ashamed of things for which other people try to shame you. When you unlearn all that hate, all the programming, and indoctrination, and you accept yourself for the perfect, wonderful thing you were created to be – then you can finally be proud of yourself.

Not pride as in hubris or overconfidence, just the simple ability to hold your head up high and own who you are.

What are your plans or goals you have for Ms. Bella in the next 3-5 years and why?

I try and take life as it comes. I hope to continue hosting and performing full-time. In an ideal world, The Bluff City Bombshell, War of the Roses, and my other shows at Atomic Rose would be mid-South staples, my drag family/ House would be well established and renowned for excellence, and I’d be looking back on 3-5 years of fun, financial success, and giving back to my community while looking forward to countless good years to come.

I always say I am humbled and blessed to be where I am, and I hope to maintain that attitude no matter where life may take me.

Thank you so much Slade for sitting and chatting with me, it’s been a complete honor.

Before we go, do you have any last words for your supporters or our readers?

Thank you so much for inviting me to the interview, and thanks to all you lovely folks for reading! Please follow me on social media, and I hope to see you out and about at a show soon!

Until then, #KeepYourEyeOnDuBalle!

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Love Doesn’t Hurt is a agency that helps to provide assistance to victims of Domestic & Sexual Violence in the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Community to provide emergency shelter, transportation, food, clothing and relocation for those in Shelby County area. Through the assistance of our partner agencies we have been able to reach out and educate those in the community of the impact that domestic violence has taken on the Mid-South.

FOLLOW LDH @LoveDoesntHurtLGBTQ @LoveDoesntHurt901 @LvDoesntHurt901 www.LoveDoesntHurt.com

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Photography by Busy Bri

The first thing I think about when it comes to Mr. Will Ryder is how much of an electrifying dancer and performer you are. Who are some of your favorite performers or dancers that you look up to and why?

Well, thank you so much!

I really enjoy drag and the art through and

through. My main influencers are Usher, Michael Jackson, Ne-Yo, and really early 2000’s hip hop artists that danced.

I’ve always enjoyed the high energy of hip-hop dancing. It’s the connection with the beat and those artists also had to best moves and were always so smooth with it. And also some of the

coolest outfits. Everything just screamed TASTE. I will say you’re one of the most popular performers and drag kings here in the city of Memphis. Every year during Pride Festivals I always see you performing, walking in the parade representing the trans community,

or showing support to local businesses here in the city. What has been your most proud moment as a performer or drag king?

Pride is a huge deal to me I hold it a little higher than the night gigs. I always want to do something impactful. I really like to feel Proud of my performances after

One thing I love about you is the support and loyalty you and your brothers have for each other, y’all go by the name of ‘The Dynasty’ tell us more about how the group came about and what does it represent?

Yes, I love my fellow Kings! My brother, Cristofer Coxxx, and I are a part of our own family called “Coxxx” and he was one of the biggest influences and supporting people in my career.

Throughout my time as a cast member at Spectrum I was given the opportunity to host my own show on the first Friday of every month. I saw that some of the new kings had a harder time getting booked so I used

that opportunity to have an all kings show. We call it “The Dynasty” it is a great way for us Kings to get together, bond, and be around others who do the same thing! We represent the male side of the drag world. We are a brotherhood and a powerhouse group bringing in the sexy, the weird, and the royalty. While we don’t have our night anymore since Spectrum closed and some of the guys have moved away, we still pop up around town from time to time!

So be on the lookout for our next night!

I heard through the grapevine that you just got your first drag son, Congrats! When I heard the story of your son and the event you and the community put on for him was so heartfelt. For those who don’t know, tell us about your drag son, the event you guys put on, and what does it mean to you?

Yes! My first drag son! What an incredible soul! Stevie is a St. Jude patient and just recently turned 21. She had always wanted to come to a drag show and with the help of her nurses, we were able to do that for her. Due to health conditions, it was a private event but the queens and I turned up and turned it out!!

Stevie wanted to get into

drag and I was lucky enough to be the drag king that got to do that for her! As soon as we got the makeup done and outfit on I could tell Stevie was feeling it! And that’s when my drag son was born!! He wanted to go by Prisstian Pike.

I announced him as he walked out on the stage as our newest member of “The Dynasty” and he shut it down!! He was moving and grooving and totally performed like a star. He definitely made more tips than I did my first number!! It was truly an honor to be a part of something so special and I’ll always have that day and experience dear to my heart.

To give someone in pain a moment of happiness and carelessness was truly...powerful. *cue the tears again* Your parents are some of the nicest people and amazing allies in the support of you and the trans community.

How important is it to you as a trans man

So, who is Will Ryder? Will Ryder has been performing for 13 years now in his hometown of Memphis, Tennessee. He is the longest consecutive performing Drag King in Memphis. Over his career, he has won a plethora of titles and doesn’t plan to stop performing any time soon! He always smells good and has the coolest shoes!

to have support from your parents and what advice will you give to other parents who may struggle to accept their child who may also identify as trans?

My parents are amazing.

I am so fortunate to have them as my own. I’m truly so grateful for them. Life is hard in general. Having supportive parents makes it easier. As queer people, we face the chances of rejection all the time. It could be with work, friendships, love, our own government, and unfortunately some face it at home with family. To know that I was in a home of support made life and accepting myself easier. It means more to me than I could ever actually express. But the feeling is love and love is the key to life.

My advice to parents struggling with accepting their child is to really understand what’s hard to accept about it. Is it fear for them? Is it fear of your own relationships with your community? Is it religious?

FOLLOW WILL @Shay Will Ryder @Shaybird3

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Pride. One of my favorite moments performing was when I did a number involving children!

I was able to come up with some small and easy choreography for my number and made a video to send out. I was contacted by their parents and sent the video out to them so the kids could learn the routine.

Toward the end of my number, the kids came up and dances with me and it ended with us just jumping around and having a good time. It was definitely one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had as a performer.

What is the root of the problem? Once you know just address it. Do research. Learn about the Trans community.

What does transitioning do for a person and what is more important, your own fears or the happiness of your child? Life is short and we all deserve to be happy. There’s no need to hold anyone else back from being happy.

Nothing really changes but the appearance and usually transitioning make someone much happier. Let them be happy. We all have our own beliefs but that’s just what they are...our own beliefs. Respect your beliefs but don’t force them on someone else.

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As a trans man in today’s society, what has been the biggest challenge you have faced, and what has been the biggest lesson you have learned so far along your journey?

My biggest challenge with being Trans was coming out. As men-

tioned, the queer community faces the possibility of rejection in a lot of different aspects of life. I was scared to come out at work at my old job but when I made the change to my current employer, 1776 Men’s Grooming Parlor, my boss came up to me after a few days and asked me my pronouns.

It’s still amazing to think back to that moment but I knew then I was in the right place. Also, I was scared to come out to my parents. As supportive as they’ve been with my queer lifestyle I was scared to tell them.

I knew it was my life and they were supportive but this was a new lead to turn and I wasn’t sure how they would feel about me changing.

You carry yourself with so much confidence and grace, who is your biggest influence(s), and why?

I try to carry myself with love and respect to get those things back. My in-

fluences have stemmed from a little piece of everyone. I tend to learn things from everyone I meet. It can be positive and negative. Things I admire or things I don’t want to put back into the world. I’ve learned a lot of unconditional love from my parents and my sister. Those people have really helped shape me into the person I am today. They just always have supported me and taught me it’s okay to mess up but it’s all about learning and growing from it.

What does PRIDE mean to you?

Pride to me means carrying on the legacy of those who fought for us at the Stonewall riots and demanded equality and justice. It’s taking Pride in yourself and who you are and not backing down or changing for anyone else. It’s also taking Pride in those around you who have fought hard to be who they are. We all need love and support so it’s very important to acknowledge others as well as yourself and all you’ve overcome.

What is the best advice that you’ve been given that helped you on your journey and now you can pass it down to the next generation of the trans community?

One of the best pieces of advice I have gotten was honestly for drag but I’ve used it in my everyday life. “They’ll try to keep you down as long as they can but it’s up to you if you stay there or not.”

The lovely Alexis VonFursentburg told me that in the dressing room at Metro. It really stuck with me and I think it’s great.

It’s up to you to accept defeat or to fight back and keep pushing. If it means something to you, always fight for it!

Will thank you so much for your time, I really appreciate everything you do in the community. Before we go do you have any last words for your supporters or our readers?

Thank you for doing this with me. I would like to thank everyone for years of love and support. For not only supporting me but our community. After 13 years of continued love and support from everyone, almost every weekend has been remarkable and has truly made me feel so supported. Please continue to help out the community in any way you can and keep pushing for equality and justice for us all! I love you!

BE INSPIRED.

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