Why is your disclosure important for people with intersectional Black, queer, and HIV positive identities?
I remember growing up and not seeing any kind of representation from anybody like me out there. I am the furthest thing from Britney Spears, *NSYNC or Destiny’s Child and if I’d seen someone like myself, I know it would have helped me discover who I was quicker. So, nowadays I, for damn sure, want anyone who hasn’t quite found their way, to see that they can be themselves. That’s important because they need to know that their tribe is out there, waiting to find them. Especially the Black gay boys who might feel like like they are alone.
Is it a coincidence that the Poison IV Virtual Concert is on Juneteenth?
It was meant to be. We rescheduled it from an earlier date because we were looking after the health of our brother, Zach who was recovering from surgery. Once he was okay to perform again, we happened upon the June 19 date and realized that on Juneteenth 2020, we released Stand Up, a song that specifically addresses police brutality and racial injustice.
Stand Up was also the first video that we ever produced and it carries such a strong in your face, political message that showed us we can say what we need to, make it political, and still connect with who we are. So Juneteenth 2021 is a full manifestation of how we’ve evolved as well as a celebration of the emancipation of Black people who demanded their freedom; celebration of Pride month as a queer band; and for me, celebrating the freedom to speak my truth.
Was it difficult to plan the concert?
It’s been a pivotal moment in our careers because we don’t have management or a record company funding this. We four are the record company, hiring team, and captains of the ship. Luckily we’ve always worked well together and have this amazing formula for taking on specific roles. Of course we’re supported by our amazing crew, dancers, and incredible choreographer and creative director, Leon Blackwood. He’s choreographed for Kesha and Lady Gaga, so the entire thing is going to blow our fans away.
What’s the concept?
Celebrating Black culture and freedom. Processing all of the poison that 2020 tried to throw at us and realizing that we’re winning. And coming together to build universal connections. Because that’s the magic.
What I’m hearing is “We survived 2020, and we’re taking over 2021.”
That’s it and I’m here for it.
Dizz and his chosen family perform in rIVerse Presents: The Poison IV Virtual Concert on Saturday June 19th, 2021 at 9 PM EST.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
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