My queer identity is an innate part of my artistry. It’s arguably the most definite part of my artistry because my narratives and experiences are fed so ferociously through that lens.

Growing up, I was the black sheep in almost every setting. Music was my outlet to release my feelings and come to terms with all that I was experiencing. With a background in musical theater and dance, it was only natural that I felt a magnetic pull to the theatrics of pop music. Lady Gaga, Kesha, and Marina and the Diamonds were all very formative influences for me in my pre-teen years.

As I came into myself, my tastes broadened. These pop icons became my armor. Listening to them provided me a safe space in a world where I often felt ostracized. As a teenager, I started to write and compose my own music in an attempt to one day become a fierce musical force like those who had inspired me.

Today, my identity as a blossoming trans woman feels like a beautiful full circle moment because I have the women who have inspired me every day to look up to. Except this time, my own artist project is my armor and my safe space.

'Matty Marz' has always been about growth and change. My ability to shape-shift aesthetics and sound because of my years of studying music, dance and theater have created a strong foundation for my project. I feel as if my creativity cannot be stopped. I am only just starting to scratch the surface of who I am and what I have to say.

Queerness is a superpower. Queerness is, I believe, the future of pop superstardom. I cherish my queerness every day of my life and I know that I will continue to cultivate it as I rise into my own pop stardom.

I’m thrilled to be able to share my upcoming project, ‘m.w.u,’ this fall. The project takes influence from EDM, electronica and pop, but is uniquely my own. It’s daring, abrasive and joyous. I executive produced it and poured so much into the project’s conception. I couldn’t be more excited to share these new songs with the world!