Country Western meets Street Style

Throughout her career, Kiah has challenged conventional expectations, both in her music and personal identity. As a Black queer woman in the Americana and roots music scene, she has navigated and confronted societal assumptions, using her platform to address issues of race, sexuality, and mental health. Her song "Black Myself," which earned a Grammy nomination, is a powerful anthem that reclaims Black identity and challenges systemic racism. Through her artistry, Kiah continues to inspire and provoke thought, solidifying her place as a formidable and influential figure in contemporary music.

Throughout her journey, Kursh has faced challenges, including instances of racism and the pressures of being a trailblazer in a traditionally homogeneous industry. Nevertheless, she remains steadfast in her mission to inspire and empower the next generation of equestrians, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and resilience. Her story serves as a testament to the impact of perseverance and the pursuit of inclusivity within the Western lifestyle. 

Pickett’s contributions were posthumously recognized, ensuring his legacy lived on. In 1971, he became the first Black cowboy inducted into the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum’s Rodeo Hall of Fame. His impact is also honored through the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo, the first all-Black touring rodeo, which continues to celebrate the contributions of African American cowboys and cowgirls.

Russell's music is an amalgam of American roots, reflecting her diverse heritage as a Scottish-Grenadian-Canadian. She identifies as a mixed-heritage Black woman and emphasizes that music transcends national borders, much like the human spirit. Her artistry is influenced by various genres and writers, and she describes herself as "genre-fluid." Instruments like the clarinet and banjo have become conduits for her songwriting, allowing her to express her unique musical perspective.

Thornton's influence extended beyond "Hound Dog." In the 1960s, she experienced a career resurgence, particularly when Janis Joplin covered her song "Ball and Chain," bringing her renewed attention. She continued to perform with major rock and blues artists, solidifying her impact on multiple genres. Despite her contributions, Thornton remained underappreciated compared to the artists she influenced.  

Songs are historical artifacts,” she says. “If we look at them in the correct context and really do the work around them, we can reap a lot of benefit from that.” “At the Purchaser’s Option,” the opening track of her 2017 album, Freedom Highway, for instance, was inspired by an advertisement for a young enslaved woman and her nine-month-old baby that was posted in the 1830s. 

Riddle played a significant role in framing the style of what came to be known as "country music" due to his collaboration with and teaching music to the Carter Family. 

 

She make her first country album in 1960 and in 1969 became the first Black woman to perform at the Grand Ole Opry. Released in 1970, her sole album, Color Me Country, was the first major release by a Black female artist in country. A mix of honky-tonk spunk and heartbreak balladry, all infused with her roots in gospel and R&B, the album spawned three country hits.

 

“I always think about Charley Pride. It would’ve been so easy for me to never hear his name if I didn’t have someone in my life invested in talking about the history of people of color in country and roots music,” she adds. “It would’ve been so easy for me to miss his music… after a while, one can’t help but think that’s purposeful.” - Yola 

Every facet of country music from its instrumentation to repertoire to vocal and instrumental techniques is indebted to African and African-American traditions. At some point, it became an accepted cultural narrative that country music is the domain of white people. This has never been the case, but more to the point, it has never been further from the truth than right now.

For the last year I’ve been exploring my style and finding shapes and colors that feel affirming to my identity and body shape. We all know the struggle with finding pants, shirts, shoes….honestly, everything. My body fluctuates so much each...

When it comes to building a sustainable and unique wardrobe, thrifting should always be the first step. Not only does it help reduce waste and support a circular fashion economy, but it also allows you to discover hidden gems that add character to your style. And when it comes to denim, the older the better!

camo has become a symbol of empowerment and self-expression in queer fashion. From camo hats to warm jackets, the androgynous style that camo embodies allows individuals to challenge gender norms and embrace their unique sense of style.

Not only can you find one-of-a-kind pieces, but you can also experience the thrill of the hunt that comes with searching for that perfect gem.

I've been gathering some of my favorite fall pieces and wanted to share them with y'all! This Thursday I am dropping 15+ vintage/thrifted items that are perfect for fall and for layering. 

Denim on denim has a certain cool vibe to it. I love using this method when you have two tones of denim and can't match them with anything. It is also my ideal, "I'm not sure what to wear" outfit. Pair it with any style shoe and jacket and you are good to go!

I've been making clothing for the last 3 years and like many makers I have a hard time throwing my scraps away! Finally, I've found a way to use them. 

I’m very ready for fall. The layers, the colors, the crisp air, the cozy friend hangs - all of it! This fall I’m leaning into my love for fishing & the outdoors. You’ll see more ⬇️

Work wear is having a moment & im so here for it

As I explore my style I’ve noticed that I’m drawn towards work wear, dress shirts, & suiting but not in their traditional buttoned up starch pressed form. I want them to be lived in, loved, a little dirty.

Planning your fall style as a queer person exploring fashion