Get ready, for we have an interview you’d want to read. We got to chat with 2AM Ricky about his music and more. We learned he’s not just an artist but an active member of the LGBTQIA+ community, who uses his platforms to spread awareness and more. And we did this just in time to get you into his latest single, ‘MOVE,’ as well. This dance track is here to get you addicted to its funky sound and vibe. Oh, and not just that, but with Pride Month here, we think this interview is a definite must-read!
Not only did we learn about the person himself, but we also got an insight to his inspirations, and impressive goals that we support and definitely wish him luck on. Did we get you curious enough yet? Well, what are you waiting for? Check out our interview with 2AM Ricky and make sure to take a listen to his new song, ‘MOVE,’ and check his discography while you’re at it.
The Honey POP welcomes you! We are excited about our talk, and to start us off, could you tell our readers three things you think they should know about you?
I’m a very old soul. I was born and raised in Winston-Salem, NC surrounded by a blend sounds of like gogo, blues, soul, funk, Hip-Hop, and R&B. My grandfather was known as the “music man” of the city since the 70s, and his influence still shows in my music and style to this day. I’m also more into design and apparel than people realize. While I love luxury streetwear, I can sew by hand, and have since middle school. I aspire to create a unisex collaborative capsule to enhance gender euphoria through fashion. One thing that always surprises people is how much I value rest. I love a good nap! Life as an independent artist is fast-paced so self care is essential. If I don’t have a nap, I can’t show up as my best self for my team and fans.
Similar question: could you tell us a little about your sound and where you draw your inspiration from?
I’m a multidimensional artist and songwriter with a creative edge similar to Tyler the Creator, Kaytranada, and Kid Cudi. My taste in music is a very vast palette, and I’m inspired by icons of all genres from James Brown and Muddy Waters to Andre 3000 and Smino.
Your new song, ‘MOVE,’ is a groovy track to dance and lose oneself to, a good addition to any party. What image did you have in mind about this single?
As a young black transman raised in the South, it can be difficult to find inclusive spaces where black queer people can be free, be themselves, and find community. I wanted to create a summer anthem for bois like me, masculine-presenting queer folks who often feel overlooked or out of place in modern nightlife culture. When people around the world hear ‘Move’ I want them to envision a place where they can be safe and feel alive, from London to LA.
What do you think is the best time to listen to ‘MOVE?’ Like a time of day or a mindset, and what would they be?
‘Move’ is a record that can be listened to at any time of day. My favorite time to listen to ‘Move’ is actually when I’m in 5 o’clock traffic. The record has an energy that makes a ride that can be less than pleasant very enjoyable.
If you had to pick a song from your discography that is a definite must-listen, which would it be and why?
One song from my discography is a definite must-listen is ‘Cream.’ ‘Cream’ is a smooth and sultry R&B track with Hip-Hop fusions. This record embodies love in all shades and is an ode to the beauty of queer love.
As an artist, you have a broader reach to people. How do you use your influence and music in relation to the LGBTQIA+ community?
Over the years, I’ve forged a unique path that intersects with both the music industry and the ongoing struggle for trans visibility and LGBTQIA+ equality. I use my platform as a recording artist to increase trans visibility and inclusion through storytelling, empowering reproductive justice, mental health, trans education, and strategic communications through entertainment.
In 2023, I partnered with SkiimooTech to lead marketing and development for the VDOM, the world’s first ultra-humanistic prosthetic device designed to revolutionize the lives of those grappling with erectile dysfunction and identity affirmation. I’ve helped global community leaders to develop language and best practices for safety & harm reduction techniques, artistic development for black trans creatives and niche audiences, and improve policies surrounding wellness and healthcare for trans men.
Speaking of the community, any special plans for this year’s Pride Month that you would like to share with us?
I’m super excited to be celebrating Pride Month with a list of events. I’ll be co-hosting Smothered & Covered with DJ Hourglass on June 21st. I’m also performing in various cities from MoBiFest in NYC to iElevate Conference in Atlanta, so make sure to follow me on social media to see when I’m performing at a pride event near you!
2024 is almost halfway through. Could you share or hint at some of your goals for the rest of the year?
2024 has been an amazing year so far, and I’m excited to see what the rest has in store. I would love to go on my first tour this year and am excited to be joining as a supporting act on a few dates soon to be announced. When ‘Move’ released it debuted at #12 on iTunes Electronic Charts and peaked at #3, making me the first black trans masc artist to reach this milestone. I would love to further this historical impact and receive my first Grammy nomination, opening the door for more black trans and nonbinary artists to be seen and accepted.
Now, without the restriction of time, what are some goals you hope to achieve that you have not yet had the opportunity to?
I hope to one day open a group home facility for at-risk youth, cultivating their gifts and skills while providing them with a loving and safe home environment. I will also soon be launching the MOVE Initiative, providing wellness resources, mentorship, and music business education to aspiring LGBTQIA+ creative professionals with an emphasis on black trans communities.
To finish us off, we really love sweetness and spreading good vibes, can you leave a positive message to our readers?
Spread love and cease-fire. Happy pride!
Wow, this was not just fun but very inspiring as well, wasn’t it, Honeys? From 2AM Ricky’s music to his engagement with the LGBTQIA+ community, we loved learning more about this talented artist. And we hear you! Did you like our interview? How did you find his latest single ‘MOVE?’ Head over to @thehoneypop and tell us your favorite answers. You can also find us on Facebook and Instagram, always ready to buzz with you all.
If you enjoyed this interview, we have plenty more for you.
