Funky Fresh Friday series turns the spotlight on Queer Black artists in Colorado
DENVER — From 1930s Billie Holiday to today’s Janelle Monáe, Black LGBTQ+ women have been influencing music for generations. Despite the diverse influences music has, both the national and local music industry often fail at representing artists that reflect this.
Nationally, the music industry is made up of about 63.9% men, and 73.9% white people. Accounts by local artists and fans have proven that Colorado’s music scene isn’t much different.
“I grew up in Montbello, in the east side area, and I've seen Denver change so significantly," reflects Denver poet, musician and mother Uchenna Ohaya, or “Uccch.” “It’s a place that I call home, but don't always feel at home here."
Uccch, performing artist and co-producer of Funky Fresh Friday
Uccch identifies as a Black Queer artist. Like many LGBTQ+ people of color, the music scene wasn’t the only community that has excluded her. “Identifying and becoming more part of the Queer community, I was cut off from my immediate family and that really kind of tossed me into the wind as far as, where's my community? Who is here for me?”
Over time, Uccch was able to find the perfect people to lift her up — a loving wife and son, friends and creative collaborators.
“My life has changed significantly since finding more supportive community. I feel like I've found my voice in a different space. I feel like I see myself,” she shared. “My confidence has gone through the roof.”
This shift in surroundings motivated Uccch to create spaces where others could experience the same sense of healing.
Uccch’s friend and collaborator, The Qor, shared her sentiments.
“I think it's time for us to be seen and be heard. Predominantly the music industry is ran by guys and it's our time,” she said.
The Qor and Uccch have had many discussions about the lack of belonging a non-inclusive music scene can create.
They had both faced “pay to play” models — where venues or promoters charge the artists for stage time — shady payment breakdowns and microaggressions that made a simple 30 minute performance many take for granted feel like an endless endeavor.
Eventually, they decided to take matters into their own hands.
“I think the Black Queer community needs more events together. Not just a seat at the table, but to create that table,” Uccch mused. And "create the table" they did.
The result was “Funky Fresh Fridays,” an event series at the Queer-owned Town Hall Collaborative, showcasing Black Queer artists and prioritizing women.
The Qor, headlining artist and co-producer of Funky Fresh Fridays
Jan. 27, 2023 marked the launch of the bi-monthly series. The debut event featured local hip hop artists Binta Zang, Katana Da Don, and of course performances by Uccch and The Qor. It was DJ’d by DJ Bugshoney and hosted by Uccch’s wife, charismatic local comedian Shanel Hughes.
The event was hard work to coordinate, but with every ticket that was bought and each word of support, The Qor and Uccch were encouraged to keep going.
By the time it was time to kick things off, the once-empty venue was now buzzing with excitement. Artists paced nervously, guests mingled and lights danced.
As the performances began, people from various corners came together at the front of the stage to dance, laugh and connect. Each artist emanated stage presence, taking advantage of every opportunity to engage with audience members.
According to Uccch, the event happening in the first place made it worthwhile. The other elements like quality performances, connection, and unbridled Queer joy were simply icing on the cake.
“It's important to have fun and joyous events because laughter is the best medicine. Community is important. That's what we need. That's what we crave,” she said. “I hope people leave with a sense of joy. Having had fun, having made some connections.”
Needless to say, The Qor and Uccch’s mission to create a welcoming space was accomplished. The event was a success in every form, and this time the emotional labor and time the artists spent was worthwhile.
Moral of the story? “If you can't blend in with the crowd, stand out from the crowd,” advises The Qor. “You never know who's eye you're gonna catch.”
[The next installment of Funky Fresh Fridays will take place Friday, Feb. 24. You can learn more here.]
Elle Naef is a digital media producer at Rocky Mountain PBS. You can reach her at ellenaef@rmpbs.org.
William Peterson is a senior photojournalist at Rocky Mountain PBS. You can reach him at williampeterson@rmpbs.org.