TT the Artist just released a 90s-inspired music video off her very own record label, Club Queen Records.
The 34-year-old Baltimore/LA-based singer, rapper, and producer has been noted as a key player within the rise of the current Baltimore club scene and has been using her voice to promote women within the hip hop industry.
OUT caught up with TT to discuss her first video "Girls Off The Chain", new feminist record label company, and Black Girl Magic.
OUT: Tell us about your background with music and getting into the music industry.
TT: I found my musical identity in Baltimore city through its homegrown Baltimore club music. Born and raised in South Florida, I grew up listening to Miami Bass, 90s dance, hip hop, and r&b music. In 2013, I worked with Diplo on his single "Dat A Freak", which would later be sampled by J Lo for her hit single "Booty". I have always loved music. As a child I grew up very religious so I had to sneak away and listen to the radio because I was not allowed to listen to secular music. I started rapping because I loved the idea that a woman could be respected for her voice and what she has to say!
What went into creating this new song/music video?
The "Girls Off The Chain" music video was inspired by 90's dance music videos. It is the first music video release off of my new label Club Queen Records, a platform that focuses on exclusive music releases by women with a focus on women of color in hip hop, dance, and r&b genres. I was also a huge fan of the show Martin and the characters Sheneneh and Key Lo Lo; they reminded me so much of my best friends growing up.
The attitude and confidence they had even when people looked at them like they were not the standard of beauty in America -- to me -- they represented real black girl magic...being able to be yourself unapologetically. As a woman of color who raps and makes dance music, I have always been out of the box. This video showcases everyday girls coming together for a good time. Whether it's your sister, fav girl cousin, auntie, or mother, we are all coming together to celebrate who we are!
Does your queer identity influence your music? If so, how?
In many of my productions I am working with queer artists on and off camera. When it comes to my work, I love to be inclusive and uplift marginalized groups whether it's black and brown women or QPOC. I think it is important to work with artists from a diverse range of backgrounds.
Anything else you'd like to add?
Red Bull Music United States of Bass has been a great platform for me to continue to spread my message of woman power and girls taking their place on the music world stage. I hope that I can continue to expand the idea of women supporting women in the music industry through Club Queen Records and my future projects.
