When We See Each Other

Nikkiesha McLeod delves into the world of queer artistry with An Only Child, a captivating musician and dancer whose debut album, 'Prepare the Body,' is a project steeped in vulnerability. An Only Child shares about their creative journey, starting with their early inspiration to make music, rooted in a childhood filled with singing in the church and an innate urge to express themselves through melody. They also share the nostalgic memory of their first song, a quirky tribute to the animated series 'Rocket Power,' highlighting the blend of innocence and creativity that has persisted throughout their life. From film studies to dance, they reveal a multifaceted background that informs their artistic outlook, emphasizing how these various mediums intertwine and influence their work today. The discussion moves towards the meaning behind the artist's stage name, which is as much about personal identity as it is about artistic expression. They also candidly share the intentions behind their album to unearth and express emotions that have often been kept private, a process intensified by their experience of vocal cord surgery, which temporarily silenced them, and also share how the album title reflects a broader exploration of physical and mental preparation, intertwined with themes of healing and self-care. Throughout our conversation, An Only Child discusses the interplay between their music and dance, revealing how each song conjures a desire to move. This exploration leads to a fascinating commentary on the creative process, where they find inspiration in the comfort of their daily rituals, particularly bathing, which allows for a childlike state of creativity and relaxation. Reflecting on the timing of their album and the impact of the pandemic, An Only Child talks about navigating the unexpected challenges of 2020, including being injured just as they were mixing their album. They share how this tumultuous period has reshaped their perspective on work, rest, and community, emphasizing the newfound appreciation for connection. As we dive deeper, An Only Child elucidates their influences, from personal experiences to other artists in the queer and BIPOC communities, all of whom inspire their work in unique ways. The conversation weaves through topics of identity, resilience, and the quest for authenticity, culminating in thoughts on genre fluidity and the road ahead in a capitalistic world. The chat also touches on heavier themes as An Only Child candidly addresses their lived experience as a Black queer artist, drawing parallels between their identity and the freedom of expression found within their work.

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Guest: An Only Child

Host & Producer: Nikkiesha McLeod

Producer & Editor: Jeremiah Lee McVay

Released by Stereoactive Media

Nikkie dives deep into the world of singer-songwriter Mel Fine, whose artistry encapsulates the experience and emotion of being a queer, non-binary person in today's music landscape. Mel reflects on their journey through music and identity, exploring the profound influences that have shaped their path as an artist. They share their earliest memories of music, noting that it has always been a form of self-expression and storytelling for them. From early experience in musical theater to taking a more focused approach to songwriting, Mel describes how these experiences allowed them to articulate their feelings and experiences through music. They discuss with Nikkie the therapeutic aspects of songwriting, especially during difficult times, and how Mel's first significant compositions were born out of personal challenges and the desire to connect with others. Mel candidly recounts how their song, "In Between," emerged during a songwriting class when they decided to confront their truth head-on, leading to a cathartic songwriting experience. They reveal their process of coming out to friends, family, and even their audience through the music and its raw vulnerability. Mel shares about the supportive environment they have cultivated among friends and family, breaking down the barriers of misunderstanding that often accompany discussions around gender and identity. Throughout the episode, Mel's infectious passion for storytelling shines as they reflect on the balance between performing live and studio work and their experience auditioning for American Idol.

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Guest: Mel Fine

Host & Producer: Nikkiesha McLeod

Producer & Editor: Jeremiah Lee McVay

Released by Stereoactive Media

Nikkiesha McLeod welcomes the talented singer-songwriter Mackenzie Shivers, a close friend and an acclaimed musician, to share insights into her upcoming album, Rejection Letter, which is set to be released on April 2nd. The episode begins with Mackenzie's single "Martha's Vineyard," paving the way for an in-depth discussion of the emotional landscape of her music, her artistic evolution and the impact of the pandemic on her creativity, and the importance of supporting independent artists. 

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Guest: Mackenzie Shivers

Host & Producer: Nikkiesha McLeod

Producer & Editor: Jeremiah Lee McVay

Released by Stereoactive Media

Nikkie chats with rapper Billy Dean Thomas about their identity, life, and music, including their powerful track "Trust No More" from the EP, For Better or Worse, which delves into the complexities of relationships and the struggles faced by marginalized communities. Billy shares their journey into rap, shaped by their experiences in Harlem, and discusses the inherent political dimensions of their music as a queer Black artist. The discussion then delves into their creative process, highlighting a spontaneous style songwriting that captures raw authenticity. The conversation also addresses the impact of the pandemic on their artistry and living situation, underscoring the importance of supporting underrepresented voices in music. The episode concludes with a captivating performance from Billy, which happen to be one our favorite moments on the podcast so far!

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Guest: Billy Dean Thomas

Host & Producer: Nikkiesha McLeod

Producer & Editor: Jeremiah Lee McVay

Released by Stereoactive Media

Nikkie speaks with the talented Black queer gender-nonconforming R&B artist, NYALLAH about their artistic journey, beginning with an exploration of their childhood influences and how their upbringing in a creatively rich household surrounded by a variety of genres – including jazz, reggae, and R&B – infused their music with diverse sounds and emotions. They reminisce about listening to powerful vocalists like Mary J. Blige and Brandy, whose influences are evident in NYALLAH's own powerful and soulful style. Discussing their debut album, 'Reflections,' NYALLAH opens up about the personal and social themes interwoven throughout the work. The album serves as a healing journey, reflecting their experiences with love, loss, and the struggles they face as a Black, queer individual navigating the complexities of identity and societal expectations. NYALLAH also reveals the inspiration behind their standout track "Growing Pains," describing it as a heartfelt letter from their future self, encouraging resilience and growth amidst life's challenges and provides insight into the creative process for 'Reflections,' which took nearly two years to complete. They describe how their experiences at USC shaped their artistry and the challenges they faced in an institution that often privileged white narratives. From struggles with internalized oppression to false perceptions of professionalism, NYALLAH emphasizes how these experiences fueled their desire to create music that authentically represents their truth. The conversation delves into the multifaceted nature of NYALLAH's artistry, their evolution as a songwriter, and their approach to composition. They share how their musical style blends elements of hip-hop and soul, producing a sound that is both dynamic and deeply resonant. NYALLAH emphasizes the importance of cultivating community within their music, stating that collaboration with fellow artists is essential to their creative process. As the conversation turns to visibility in the music industry, NYALLAH candidly addresses the complexities of being a queer, gender-nonconforming artist, recounting experiences of tokenization and erasure while reiterating their commitment to using their platform to uplift Black voices and engage in necessary conversations surrounding identity, mental health, and social justice. NYALLAH's perspective on liberation through art serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of creativity.

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Guest: NYALLAH

Host & Producer: Nikkiesha McLeod

Producer & Editor: Jeremiah Lee McVay

Released by Stereoactive Media

Nikkie chats with Anjimile, a talented Black trans artist whose highly anticipated album, 'Giver Taker,' is set to release on September 18th via Father Daughter Records. Anjimile shares their journey into music, which was inspired by their upbringing in Texas, surrounded by musical siblings and influenced by the eclectic sounds played by their parents during family chores. The conversation touches on the deep connections between music, identity, and spirituality that permeate Anjimile's work, as they share the inspiration behind their standout single, "Maker," how it emerged during a particularly tumultuous period in their life, and how it explores gender identity and self-definition with lyrics that convey a powerful sense of transformation. Anjimile also reflects on their evolution as a musician since releasing their first EP in 2011, highlighting the maturity that comes with age and experience and emphasizing how their evolving voice—deeper now from testosterone therapy—has transformed their musical expression. They also offer insights into their influences, both musical and non-musical, and how their intersectional identity as a Black queer trans artist shapes their unique sound.

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Guest: Anjimile

Host & Producer: Nikkiesha McLeod

Producer & Editor: Jeremiah Lee McVay

Released by Stereoactive Media