We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Cuee. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Cuee below.

Cuee, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

In a world marred by prejudice and discrimination, Cuee set out to capture moments of joy in the community. With the release of Cuee’s June 2023 Pride month single titled “Proud Boi”, the world was introduced to ‘Black Trans Joy’ by a custom jacket created in collaboration with visual artist Mars Wright. Grabbing the attention of the larger LGBTQIA+ community and specifically the Black trans/non-binary community, Cuee witnessed how his message of joy was a radical and powerful antidote to the pain and oppression inflicted on the community.

Black Trans Joy has become more than a design on a jacket, it has developed into a beacon of hope and a declaration of celebration for Black trans people everywhere. Centering joy in Cuees’ message has given others the space and permission to share their own stories, reclaim their narratives, and disabuse the world of the notion that Blackness and Transness isn’t synonymous with joy and happiness because it can be, and it is.

As the project continues to develop, it has sparked many conversations that help to challenge stereotypes about Black people, Trans folk, and the individuals who meet at the intersections of those identities. Despite ongoing challenges and attacks from ignorant people, Cuee has carved out a space where Black Trans/non-binary joy can be celebrated and embraced as an active of revolution and resistance. ‘Black Trans Joy’ paves the way for greater acceptance into our respective communities but more importantly, it is a manifestation and declaration of our inherent right to be and experience joy.

Cuee, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I am a Black Trans artist, activist, and influencer from Chicago, IL best known for my interactive, energetic and all-around hype live performances, joyous social media posts, and activism in my community. My musical style blends the lyrical confidence of Missy Elliot and Chance the Rapper with the undeniable swagger and finesse of LL Cool J.

I began rapping at the age of 13 on my karaoke machine writing remixes to fit my life with instrumentals from artists like Jay Z, Lil Wayne, and Eminem. In 2017, after graduating with my master’s from The University of Kansas, I began my music career performing all around the Kansas City/Lawrence area. As I gained more traction and built a solid fanbase, I decided to leave my 9-to-5 job and take on music as my full-time career.

My music and life is the embodiment of Black Trans Joy and I have made it my person mission to spread that joy across the world through my art and music. My most recent release, Transformation, is a culmination of my journey filled with upbeat, confident, feel-good music that will make anyone proud to be who they are. I have boldly stepped into what it means to be a Black Trans person living in the world. As my message continues to grow, I am on the way to reaching 100K LGBTQ+ individuals and allies who want to join the Cueeties!

My first few releases, “Shook” and “Gravity” are currently climbing the charts on Spotify’s Editorial playlists (Transcend, Choice Edit, and Gemini). Using the stage as another platform to get my message across, I’ve performed in over 15 cities and played events like Pride Fests (Los Angeles, CA; San Fernando Valley, CA; Boston, MA; Lawrence, KS and Kansas City, MO), So Far Sounds (San Diego, CA; Dallas, TX; Chicago, IL; Boston, MA; and New York, NY), Silky Nutmeg Ganache Countdown (Indianapolis, IN), Stonewall (Canada) and many more.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

One defining moment in my journey that showcases my resilience occurred during a particularly challenging period when I was facing both personal and professional obstacles. At the time, I was navigating the complexities of being an out Black trans masculine artist in an industry with limited representation and battling against societal prejudices and discrimination.

Despite the hurdles I faced, I remained steadfast in my commitment to spreading Black Trans Joy and amplifying the voices of marginalized communities through my art. However, there came a moment when the weight of societal hostility and the lack of support within the music industry began to take its toll on me emotionally and mentally.

I found solace and strength in my community, particularly in the bonds I shared with other trans and Black trans individuals who understood firsthand the challenges we faced. Through their unwavering support and encouragement, I was reminded of the importance of resilience and the power of solidarity in the face of adversity.

Drawing inspiration from my community and fueled by a renewed sense of purpose, I channeled my experiences into my art, using it as a tool for self-expression, advocacy, and empowerment. Through my work, I continued to challenge societal norms, confront stereotypes, and celebrate the beauty and resilience of the Black trans experience.

Despite the obstacles I encountered along the way, I refused to be silenced or deterred from my mission. Instead, I persevered, drawing upon my resilience and the support of my community to overcome adversity and today, I continue making meaningful contributions to the world through my creativity and activism.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

Being an out, loud, and proud Black trans masc artist is not always easy while living in an anti-Black and anti-trans society while pursuing a career where there is minimal representation. My goal is to spread Black Trans Joy in the face of the continued adversity and systemic oppression that LGBTQ+ folks continue to face. With the rise of anti-trans bills and antagonistic hate in society, I know how important it is to use my platform and creativity to uplift and celebrate the resilience and beauty of the Black trans community. Through my art, I aim to challenge stereotypes, break down barriers, and create spaces where people of all identities can feel seen, heard, and valued. My mission is to inspire others to embrace their authentic selves and to foster greater understanding, empathy, and acceptance for all marginalized communities. Ultimately, I hope to contribute to a more inclusive and equitable society where everyone can thrive and celebrate their unique identities without fear or discrimination.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.cueemusic.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cueemusic/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cueemusic/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/cueemusic?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUdtod1Xb2xPVc8PDdRt5gg
• Other: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5vuWUABfGvkUxib7zgMMc6?si=smQAEWe8Qs-e8CUsYp6rmw

Image Credits
Ailecia Ruscin Sam Avery