The latest episode of the Queer News Podcast, hosted by the dynamic Anna DeShawn, brought listeners an overdue and incredibly powerful conversation with 2AM Ricky. A trailblazing artist, 2AM Ricky has continuously made history as a Black trans male musician, proving that authenticity and perseverance can open doors that once seemed locked.
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Who is 2AM Ricky?
For those unfamiliar, 2AM Ricky is more than just a rapper and songwriter—he is a force in the music industry. In 2021, he became the first Black trans male artist to reach number one on any music chart with his single “What You Own,” featuring the legendary CeCe Peniston. The song dominated the LGBTQ urban charts for ten weeks, solidifying his place in history. Ricky has since landed multiple sync placements, graced the cover of Obvious magazine’s 2022 fashion edition, and earned recognition as a Forbes Black History Maker. His latest single, “Move,” debuted at number 12 on the U.S. iTunes Electronic Chart and peaked at number three—yet another groundbreaking achievement.
Affirmations and Spirituality in Music
Throughout the interview, Ricky spoke about the importance of affirmations in his daily life. One of his guiding affirmations is, “I don’t know how, but I know who.” He credits his faith for keeping him grounded, emphasizing that while he may not always see the path ahead, he trusts that a higher power is guiding him. Instead of traditional mirror affirmations, Ricky channels his manifestations through his songwriting, embedding his desires and goals into his lyrics. By the time his songs reach the world, he is often already living the reality he once envisioned.
The Journey to Authenticity
Anna DeShawn highlighted the courage it takes to be 100% authentic in a world that often pushes against it. Ricky agreed, stating that his lived experiences—from childhood struggles to navigating the music industry—have shaped his unapologetic approach. He emphasized the importance of representation, recognizing that his presence in the industry could inspire others to embrace their true selves.
Music as a Lifeline and Legacy
Ricky’s journey in music is deeply personal. He revealed that his music career truly began in 2015 after the tragic murder of his best friend, who always believed in his talent. Ricky carries his friend’s legacy in every performance, using his platform to inspire and uplift. He also spoke about the recent loss of his grandmother and how music has been his solace in grief, allowing him to process pain and find purpose.
Creating “Move” and the Power of Visibility
His latest single, “Move,” was actually created in 2020-2021 and was inspired by his early struggles in the music industry. Ricky faced significant barriers as a Black trans artist, often encountering exclusion and bias. Despite these obstacles, “Move” became a major success, further proving that talent and resilience can shatter industry norms.
Final Thoughts
2AM Ricky’s conversation with Anna DeShawn was not just an interview—it was a testament to the power of visibility, perseverance, and self-belief. Ricky continues to redefine what is possible for trans artists in music, leaving an undeniable mark on history. As his journey unfolds, one thing is certain: 2AM Ricky isn’t just making music—he’s making history.
Credit: Written by our friend at Chat GPT from the video interview transcript provided by E3 Radio
