Jon StojanTransgender singers have long held a place in the music industry, which is becoming more and more welcoming and inclusive. “Krissy” Rodgers is one such songwriter and singer who holds her head high thanks to the unyielding support of a strong mother. Hailing from the small town of Charleston, South Carolina, “Krissy” found her earliest musical influences within the walls of her local church. It was here that she first resonated with the power of music, a connection that would shape her destiny.
Image credit: Krissy Rodgers
“I grew up in Charleston, which is very much part of the Bible Belt. The only thing I could really resonate with in church was the music,” “Krissy” recalls. At 17, she left her hometown, heading to South Florida with dreams of breaking into the entertainment industry. “I just poked and prodded my way in, finally landing a spot as an entertainer,” she says.
Her journey was anything but linear. “Krissy” has worn many hats in the world of entertainment. From drag queen performances under the name “Krissy” Kaos to building stages, doing graphic design, and even stilt walking, her versatility and creativity knew no bounds. “I’ve built stage rigging, performed on those stages, and advertised shows with my own graphic art,” she notes, showcasing her hands-on approach and keen visual learning style.
Despite her varied talents, music has always been her true calling. “I guess I always knew music was where I was supposed to be. But, it took me until now in my life to realize why. It’s because I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to learn from my experiences in life, even the difficult ones. Because now, I know what to write, why I’m doing it, and how I’m supposed to get it out in the world,” “Krissy” expresses. “It’s me telling the younger version of myself as well as every other trans person who’s in a little town somewhere right now just to be themselves.” Her musical process is deeply personal and organic, often created in the moment. “I go into the studio and let things take over. It’s very organic. I swear the music gods come out at night because that’s when I get so much inspiration.”
“Krissy”’s music is a blend of her life experiences with a style influenced by a range of artists from David Bowie and Madonna to Tracy Chapman. “My musical inspirations span decades and genres. I grew up on my mom’s car radio, listening to seventies and eighties music,” she explains. Her music aims to create a safe space for listeners, evoking happiness and a sense of belonging.
Her determination and resilience have been bolstered by her mother’s unwavering support. “Krissy” shares a pivotal moment from her youth: “Our church asked my mom to not bring me anymore because they thought I was homosexual. My mom stood up and told each elder if they didn’t want me there, they didn’t want her there either. That was the first time I felt I could truly be myself.”
“Krissy”’s mother remains her stronghold, instilling in her the belief that she could achieve anything. “She told me, just because you grew up in a trailer in Charleston doesn’t mean you can’t do what you want and get where you want to go,” she shares. Her mother’s courage and conviction have been a source of strength, inspiring “Krissy” to pursue her dreams relentlessly. “She’s been my stronghold. She made me feel like I could do anything,” this musician affirms.
Today, “Krissy”’s music carries messages of love, respect, and acceptance, aiming to uplift and inspire. “Every song I write and release has a message meant to uplift and give birth to a new way of thinking and making a better future by doing it together through love,” she states. Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, creativity, and the support of those who believe in us.
As she stands proudly on a billboard downtown, “Krissy” Rodgers’ story reminds us that with passion, creativity, and unwavering support, one can overcome any obstacle and achieve their dreams.