Author | Winter Mendelson
Quay Dash is a trans female rapper from the Bronx who is represented by CuntMafia’s label.
How were you discovered by the CuntMafia label?
There’s an underground rave/party by the name of Whorehouse where I actually met her and we broke bread from there. She was so full of life and energy and I wanted to be around that more ’cause I feel that I can say the same about myself. One day at her house I just started freestyling some raps and she was into it! From that day on things started to prosper. #CUNTMAFIA is a collective of artists within the LGBTQ community and NYC Underground – founded by Contessa Stuto.
When did you start performing? Are there particular themes that inspire your work?
I think my first performance ever was for Bushwig 2013 in Bushwick, Brooklyn. At that time I didn’t have a song recorded yet so I basically did a freestyle for the crowd and it was pretty amazing. Most themes that inspire my work usually come from long day dreaming and heavy nostalgia – between those two I think nostalgia is definitely the biggest inspiration of my work.
Have you experienced any challenges personally as a trans rapper in the music industry? Alternatively, who would you say has been the most supportive?
Well the biggest challenge I feel that I have ever had was to release a mixtape and EP compilation project which I am still working on due to personal issue interference. I also think that being on your own and trying to find producers/studio time/bookings/interviews is also a challenge. You really gotta get out there and make things happen for yourself cause HELP is very rare nowadays. Alternatively I CAN say that the whole CUNTMAFIA clique has been supportive of me and as well as my fans.
How would you describe your persona and/or aesthetic?
I’d say my persona/aesthetic is pretty much 90’s around the way girl with a twist! Everything about the 90’s inspires me to be who I am honestly – the 90’s was a golden era that cannot be replaced but definitely can be relived if you put your mind to it. Most of my looks are usually thrift-bought items or clothes bought from boutiques in my neck of the woods. I just like being comfortable and looking good – as well as being that super dope cool chick.
Who have you collaborated with in the past? What has been your favorite creative experience thus far?
I’ve collaborated with Cakes Da Killa on his new EP #IMF – In my feelings. We worked on a track called “Do That Baby” which is out now – also worked with a rap group by the name of KIIN and of course Contessa Stuto. As far as producers collabs are concerned – JX Cannon was the first producer I’ve ever collaborated with for my first single “Satan’s Angel.” I’d say my favorite creative experience had to be partnering with my good friend Will Brower for the filming of my first music video to drop ever “Aint Gon Stop It/BKLYN.” It took us a while to complete but we did it – a success!
What are you working on right now?
I’m working on being a better me because sometimes I find myself getting stuck in my head then hitting a wall which causes great amounts of depression and non-stop frustration. I’m also working on a new project with producer JX Cannon. Hopefully things will go superbly and I’ll finally drop a project which I know the fans are dying for!! For future plans I plan to finally go overseas to places like Sweden and Brazil to perform for all the fans and supporters over there. I’d really love that.
What advice can you give to an aspiring trans person in the industry?
I’d say just continue being yourself and never doubt yourself as to what you can or cannot do. You can do whatever you put your mind to — never settle for the bullsh*t and always be humble!
When you’re not producing music what are you doing?
When I’m not producing I’m laid up chilling with my spouse and having me time. You don’t always have to go out and party and do drugs. Time for yourself is definitely important. I also love playing video games. My fave right now is an old one but goodie: Soul Colaibur V. I used to party regularly but I am currently in a relationship and I’d rather not be around and be seen unless I’m actually performing or hosting an event. But when I did party I partied mostly in the BK area and attended events like CHERRYBOMB – CLUB YES – Julianna Huxtable’s party Shock Value and Frankie Sharp’s Westgay.
