Fresh Meat Productions asked the 2019 Fresh Meat Festival artists some questions. Read what they had to say in their own words!
TAJAH J
Tajah J B.K.A as Akira Jackson is a Contemporary R&B, Soul, EDM, and Pop artist. Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan and currently lives in the S.F Bay Area. As a black transgender multi-media artist and activist, Tajah J puts forth her experiences being formerly incarcerated, her love life, and her passion for trans empowerment as the essence of her music.
Q: Describe what you will be performing for us at the FRESH MEAT FESTIVAL.
A: I will be performing two new songs from my project New Life. This project highlights the things that I am experiencing in finding my destiny
Q: Why is it important to have a festival that centers trans and queer performance?
A: FreshMeat is an excellent platform for trans and GNC folk to share our art. We are artists! Although the world seems to be changing and. Trans people are being seen on various platforms we still have difficulties in finding a safe and non-exploitive channel to showcase our talents.
Q: What’s one thing you wish for trans and queer communities?
A: One thing that I wish for the trans and queer communities is for our Civil Liberties and our Civil Rights to be recognized and respected.
Q: Who are some of your artistic inspirations?
A: My Artistic inspirations includes: Rachelle Ferrell, Erykah Badu, Esperanza Spalding, and Jill Scott
Q: What is something you’re looking forward to artistically? Any upcoming projects we should know about?
A: I’m currently working in releasing music this summer! My music chronicles my experiences trying to find myself well being socially active in community mobilization. I am always finding new things and noticing that there isn’t a template in finding one’s destiny.
Q: What advice would you give to trans/GNC people who want to sing and perform professionally in a predominately cis, straight, able bodied field?
A: My advice to Trans and GNC folk who have interests in singing and performing is to first, believe in yourself! Our journeys are unique. The systems that are working may challenge ones patience. I have had issues while being in spaces where I was the only trans person in the space and often times those spaces were uncomfortable. Always know you are your greatest supporter, critic, and that you are an ARTIST!
Tajah J will perform on Friday, June 21 & Saturday June 22 at the FRESH MEAT FESTIVAL
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FRESH MEAT FESTIVAL of Trans & Queer Performance
June 20-22
at Z Space – San Francisco
Tix and info: https://freshmeatproductions.org/fresh-meat-festival-2019/
Z Space is wheelchair accessible
ASL will be provided all three nights
Z Space bathrooms are gender neutral and use unscented cleaning & soap products
Please arrive fragrance-free
