Music has been and will always be about liberation. It is the single most extraordinary form of art that enables us to heal because it encapsulates so many different artistic mediums, whether through visuals, dance, movement, or voice. Regardless of gender, race, ability, age, or any identifier, music resonates with us all and creates the space for us to experience healing and liberation. For me, it has been essential to my survival and my dreams.

I still remember being a child hearing Mary J. Blige for the first time and the freedom I was given to dream of abundant possibilities. I saw somebody who actually looked like me — Black, strong, and powerful, with unapologetic lyrics and a story of redemption. This liberating marriage or interdependency between Black women artists and the trans and queer artists contributes to their success, including all of us fans who admire (or stan) and honor them.

It’s essential to Black culture.

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