The worlds of music and social activism have long intertwined, creating powerful platforms for voices that challenge, inspire, and drive change. In recent times, two groundbreaking initiatives have emerged, both aiming to amplify transgender voices and promote inclusivity in the music industry. The Red Hot Organization's collaboration with TRAИƧA, a collective dedicated to celebrating transgender musicians, marks a significant stride in this direction. With iconic artists like Sade and André 3000 leading a massive benefit album alongside over 100 other contributors, these projects underscore the transformative power of music as a tool for social change.
Red Hot and TRAИƧA: A Transformative Partnership
The Red Hot Organization, renowned for its charitable compilations addressing pressing health and social issues, has partnered with TRAИƧA to create one of its most ambitious projects yet. Billed as a "spiritual journey" celebrating trans people and trans voices, the TRAИƧA benefit album spans over three and a half hours of music. It comprises eight chapters, mirroring the original eight-stripe pride flag, and features 46 songs that traverse a diverse array of genres and styles.
Production for the album began in 2021, with over 100 artists contributing their talents. Among them are notable names such as Sade, Sam Smith, Hunter Schafer, Julien Baker, Beverly Glenn-Copeland, claire rousay, Clairo, Pharoah Sanders, Adrianne Lenker, and André 3000. This extensive roster not only showcases the breadth of talent within the transgender and non-binary community but also highlights allies who stand in solidarity with the cause.
A Tribute to Trans Artists: Honoring SOPHIE's Legacy
The impetus for the TRAИƧA project was significantly influenced by the passing of SOPHIE, a pioneering trans artist and producer, in January 2021. Producers Dust Reid and Massima Bell, who met at a video shoot in New York and bonded over their shared admiration for Beverly Glenn-Copeland's music, felt compelled to honor SOPHIE's legacy. They envisioned a project that would center and celebrate the gifts that trans artists have been giving to the world.
"We started discussing the profound contributions of trans artists and wanted to create a narrative that positions trans and non-binary people as leaders in our society," Reid explained. They emphasized the deep inner work that trans individuals undertake to affirm their identities in today's climate, suggesting that this introspective journey is something everyone could benefit from. Bell added that the stakes have never been higher, noting the rise in anti-trans hate and legislation, particularly in the United States.
Lead Single: A Fresh Take on Prince's "I Would Die 4 U"
The album's announcement was accompanied by the release of its lead single, a cover of Prince's "I Would Die 4 U" performed by Wendy & Lisa of The Revolution alongside London singer Lauren Auder. Auder, a long-time Prince fan, embraced the challenge of reinterpreting one of his iconic songs. She aimed to infuse the track with her own sensibilities while honoring its original message of unconditional support and solidarity.
Wendy & Lisa, who originally performed with Prince, were initially hesitant about covering such a personal favorite. However, they were moved by Auder's voice and creative approach. They expressed confidence that Prince himself might have appreciated the innovative rendition, noting the unique blend of nostalgia and fresh perspective that Auder brought to the song.
The Significance of Sade and André 3000's Participation
The inclusion of Sade and André 3000 adds profound depth to the project. Sade, who has been relatively reclusive in recent years, brings her signature smooth and soulful sound to the album. Her participation signals a commitment to supporting transgender voices and leveraging her platform for advocacy. André 3000, known for his innovative contributions to hip-hop and beyond, continues his tradition of pushing artistic boundaries while aligning with social causes.
Their involvement not only elevates the album's profile but also bridges generational and genre gaps, uniting a wide spectrum of listeners under a common cause. It underscores the universal appeal of music and its ability to transcend differences, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.
A Diverse Ensemble: Celebrating Inclusivity
The TRAИƧA album's extensive lineup reflects the diversity within the transgender and non-binary community. Artists like Sam Smith, who identifies as non-binary, contribute to a tapestry of voices that challenge traditional norms. Hunter Schafer, known for her acting role in "Euphoria," brings her artistic talents to the musical realm. Beverly Glenn-Copeland, whose music inspired the producers, offers a blend of folk, jazz, and electronic influences that enrich the album's soundscape.
By featuring artists across different genres and backgrounds, the album emphasizes that transgender and non-binary individuals are not a monolith. Their experiences, expressions, and artistic outputs are as varied and multifaceted as any other group. This diversity is a strength that the project celebrates, promoting a message of inclusivity and acceptance.
Addressing Urgent Social Issues
The TRAИƧA project emerges at a critical time when transgender rights are under increasing attack. Bell, one of the producers and a trans person from Iowa, highlighted the terrifying rise in anti-trans legislation, including laws that prohibit access to gender-affirming care. This hostile climate makes the album's message of solidarity and support even more urgent.
Through music, the project aims to raise awareness about these issues, encouraging listeners to engage with the challenges faced by the transgender community. It serves as both a celebration of trans identities and a call to action, urging society to embrace values of community, collaboration, care, and healing.
The Power of Music as Resistance
Historically, music has been a potent form of resistance and a catalyst for social change. The TRAИƧA album continues this tradition by using art to confront injustice and inspire activism. By bringing together a vast array of artists, the project demonstrates how collective creativity can amplify marginalized voices and foster meaningful dialogue.
The album's structure, mirroring the eight-stripe pride flag, is symbolic of its mission to honor the history and struggles of the LGBTQ+ community. Each chapter represents different facets of the trans experience, weaving personal narratives with broader social themes.
Building on Red Hot's Legacy
The Red Hot Organization has a storied history of producing influential compilations that address critical health and social issues. Beginning with efforts to combat HIV/AIDS through music, Red Hot has consistently leveraged the power of art to make a tangible impact. The collaboration with TRAИƧA represents a natural progression of their mission, adapting to contemporary challenges and expanding their focus to include transgender rights.
By supporting the TRAИƧA project, Red Hot continues to facilitate groundbreaking collaborations that not only produce compelling music but also contribute to societal change. Their involvement lends credibility and resources to the initiative, helping to ensure its success and reach.
The Role of Producers Dust Reid and Massima Bell
Central to the project's development are producers Dust Reid and Massima Bell, whose shared vision and dedication have been instrumental. After meeting at a video shoot in New York, their mutual admiration for Beverly Glenn-Copeland's music sparked a collaboration. The passing of SOPHIE, a transformative figure in electronic music and a trans icon, galvanized their commitment to creating a project that honors trans artists' contributions.
Reid emphasized the desire to craft a narrative positioning trans and non-binary people as societal leaders, highlighting the profound self-exploration they undertake. Bell echoed the urgency of the project, given the escalating anti-trans sentiment and legislation. Their personal connections to the community and the issues at hand infuse the album with authenticity and passion.
The Impact of Lead Single Collaborations
The collaboration between Lauren Auder and Wendy & Lisa on the lead single exemplifies the project's spirit of unity and innovation. Auder's personal connection to Prince's music and her willingness to reinterpret "I Would Die 4 U" reflects the album's broader goals. By bringing together artists from different eras and backgrounds, the project bridges gaps and creates new artistic dialogues.
Wendy & Lisa's involvement adds a layer of historical continuity, connecting the contemporary reimagining to its original roots. Their openness to exploring new interpretations of cherished work demonstrates a commitment to artistic evolution and support for emerging talents.
The Role of Allies and Community Support
The participation of allies—artists who may not identify as transgender or non-binary but support the cause—is crucial to the project's impact. Their involvement helps to broaden the audience and foster a sense of unity. It illustrates that the fight for transgender rights is not solely the responsibility of the trans community but requires collective effort.
Artists like Clairo, Julien Baker, and Adrianne Lenker contribute their unique talents, enriching the album's diversity. Their support sends a powerful message about solidarity and the importance of standing together against discrimination and injustice.
A Call for Introspection and Growth
Producer Dust Reid emphasized the importance of everyone engaging in the kind of deep inner work that transgender and non-binary individuals often undertake to affirm their identities. This introspection can lead to a future oriented around community values and healing. By encouraging listeners to explore their own identities and feelings, the project promotes personal growth and empathy.
This message is particularly relevant in a society where rigid norms and divisions often hinder understanding and connection. The TRAИƧA album invites people to challenge preconceived notions, embrace diversity, and contribute to a more inclusive world.
Looking Forward: The Impact of TRAИƧA
As the TRAИƧA album prepares for release, its potential impact on both the music industry and social discourse is significant. By combining artistic excellence with a strong advocacy message, the project sets a precedent for how music can be leveraged to address urgent social issues.
The album's ambitious scope, featuring over 100 artists and a lengthy runtime, ensures that it offers something for a wide range of listeners. Its success could inspire similar projects in the future, further integrating activism into mainstream artistic endeavors.
Conclusion: Embracing the Transformative Power of Music
The collaboration between the Red Hot Organization and TRAИƧA represents a powerful fusion of art and activism. By assembling a diverse group of artists to celebrate transgender voices, the project harnesses the transformative power of music to promote inclusivity, challenge discrimination, and inspire change.
Involving iconic figures like Sade and André 3000, as well as emerging talents and allies, the TRAИƧA album stands as a testament to what can be achieved when creativity is united with a purpose. It not only amplifies marginalized voices but also invites all listeners to engage in self-reflection and contribute to a more compassionate society.
As the world continues to grapple with issues of inequality and injustice, projects like TRAИƧA offer hope and direction. They remind us that music is more than entertainment; it is a unifying force that can break down barriers, heal divisions, and drive us toward a better future.
TRAИƧA will release on November 22. Listen to “I Would Die 4 U” and check out the album artwork and tracklist below.
TRAИƧA Tracklist:
Chapter I – Womb of the Soul
Midnight Moon Pool (Mary Lattimore, Laraaji, MIZU, Jamal Shakeri)
You Don’t Know Me (Devendra Banhart, Blake Mills, Beverly Glenn-Copeland)
How Sweet I Roamed (Jeff Tweedy, claire rousay)
Same Train (Heart Shaped, Christian Lee Hutson)
Chapter II – Survival
STAR (Survival) (Ana Roxanne, Nsámbu Za Suékama)
Please Tell Me (Lightning Bug)
Make ’em Laugh (Benét, Faye Webster)
Get Me Away From Here, I’m Dying (Julien Baker, Calvin Lauber, SOAK, Quinn Christopherson)
Rumblin’ (Soft Rōnin, Frankie Cosmos)
Deeper Understanding (Hand Habits, Bill Callahan)
Chapter III – Dark Knight
Under the Shadow of Another Moon (Hunter Schafer, Cole Pulice)
Blush (Grouper, Lucy Liyou)
Is It Cold in the Water? (Moses Sumney)
Know Who You Are at Every Age (Anajah, Gary Gunn)
Is It Over Now? (Niecy Blues, Joy Guidry)
Chapter IV – Awakening
16 Something Is Happening And I May Not Fully Understand But I’m Happy To Stand For The Understanding (André 3000)
Come Back Different (Nina Keith, Julie Byrne, Taryn Blake Miller)
Song to the Siren (Rachika Nayar, Julianna Barwick, Cassandra Croft)
Love Hymn (Arthur Baker, Pharoah Sanders
People Are Small / Rapture (L’Rain, Voices from the NYC Trans Oral History Project)
Chapter V – Grief
We’ve Been Through So Much (Jlin, Moor Mother)
My Name (Kara Jackson, Ahya Simone, Dave Longstreth)
Point of Disgust (Perfume Genius, Alan Sparhawk (Low))
In Another Life (Lomelda, More Eaze)
Pink Ponies (Teddy Geiger, Yaeji)
A Survivor’s Guilt (Yaya Bey)
Chapter VI – Acceptance
Just Last Night (Helado Negro, Eileen Myles)
Feel So Different (Ezra Furman, Sharon Van Etten)
Mourning Dove (Gia Margaret)
Feel Better (Adrianne Lenker)
Any Other Way (Allison Russell, Ahya Simone)
Down Where The Valleys Are Low (Asher White, Eli Winter, Caroline Rose)
TM (Fleet Foxes, Cole Pulice, Lynn Avery)
Querube (AV María, SKY, Belina Rose)
Chapter VII – Liberation
Within Without (Green-House, Kelela)
Aaron (Cassandra Jenkins, Bloomsday, Babehoven)
Young Lion (Sade Adu)
You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real) (Moses Sumney, Lyra Pramuk, Sam Smith)
Many Ways (CLARITY, Clairo)
I Feel Free (Sparkle Division, Pepper MaShay)
Chapter VIII – Reinvention
Get Free (Nico Georis, KB Brookins)
Wolf Like Me (Bartees Strange, Anjimile, Kara Jackson)
Surrender Your Gender (Laura Jane Grace, Lee Ranaldo, Jayne County, Kathi Wilcox, Jay Dee Daugherty, Am Taylor)
I Would Die 4 U (Lauren Auder, Wendy & Lisa of the Revolution)
Always (Time Warp, Elizabeth, Beverly Glenn-Copeland)
Ever New (Sam Smith, Beverly Glenn-Copeland)
TRAИƧA cover designed by V. Haddad, Rohan Rege, & Olive Panter