Originally from Dallas, Texas, Dezi built up his reputation as a performer in his home city before moving to Brooklyn, New York where he has become a staple of the city’s queer nightlife.

His latest release ‘Lady’ was inspired by his late grandmother, the owner of the now closed soul food restaurant Vern’s Place in Deep Ellum, Texas. Suvern “Vern” Freeman Simmons, whose photograph is the single’s artwork, raised Dezi from a young age. The song also honours his aunts who died in the crack epidemic of the 1980s. Dezi explains:

‘When I was working on this song, it was a tribute to my grandmother’s resilience, but it turned into me honoring all the women in my life. Not just my family, but also my friends, women in the world fighting for equality, and trans women struggling to just stay alive.’

In contrast to the rest of discography – more dance oriented – ‘Lady’ is a vocally-driven, soulful piece drawing upon analog sounds. With thick and husky vocals (a la Dobie Gray), Dezi caresses a classic soul melody. ‘Why don’t you be a queen and wear your crown?’ he asks in celebration.