We had the good fortune of connecting with 2AM Ricky and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi 2AM, what’s your definition for success?
Success is being able to see the flaws, failures, and obstacles of life and know that your journey opened doors for others. It isn’t about the material things, it’s about making an impact. When your life and your endeavors make others lives better, you’ve truly succeeded.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
For me, music has always been therapeutic. As a person of trans experience, it’s always been important for me to live my truth and not be afraid to express some of the fears and insecurities that I face within my music. When I create I don’t look to fit a certain genre, I look to give a feeling. When others hear my music I want them to feel free.. free from worries, cares, inner demons, past mistakes, and insecurities. I write honestly because it’s important for others to see themselves within the lyrics. Music is healing. For trans youth around the world to be able to have representation like myself, especially Black trans youth, is groundbreaking. It’s what makes all the obstacles along my journey worth it. The biggest struggle I’ve faced is simply having society separate their stereotypes of what I am and who I am through my music. I’m not a transgender artist, I’m an artist who happens to be transgender.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
My favorite spots when I’m in Atlanta are Madhouse Gym (I’m a fitness enthusiast), and Roswell Mills. I love relaxing after a long day, and they both help fuel my creativity when I’m dealing with writer’s block. When I’m in the mood to network with my community, party, and enjoy good vibes, I check out My Sister’s Room and the multiple events held by Capone Stroud, such as VIP Fridays at The Atrium where you can enjoy a great show, drinks, and an open dance floor. I would encourage readers to follow her on Instagram (@Only_OneCapone) as well as Kia Comedy. They host some of the best events in the city.


The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to dedicate my shoutout to Vic “Billboard Killer” Martin. Vic has been a game-changer in the industry for years, and continues to mentor young artists while constantly going against the grain. From TLC to Kid Rock, Lil’ Wayne to Jimmie Allen, Meek Mill to Austin Mahone and more; Vic has helped impact not only hip-hop culture but multiple genres for decades. His production skills are out of this world, and his gift as a songwriter has helped me grow as an artist myself. Through his mentorship, I’ve watched myself push my creativity beyond even my own comfort sometimes but in the end, it’s worth it. As a young artist, especially one within the LGBTQ community, it’s a blessing to have someone that not only leads you in the right direction as a business partner, but genuinely cares for you as a person. So here’s to Vic Martin, The Mentor from Philly.

Website: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3VYlCVoVqqnWn6Cz0pi1HM?si=k7DloGOSTIeifWnYyNBtXg

Instagram: Instagram.com/2amricky

Twitter: Twitter.com/2amricky

Image Credits
Poetic Rose Films, 22 Capture, Spice Cam Visuals

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