ROY KINSEY is an anomaly when it comes to tradition in his respective industries. Where being a Black, queer-identified, rapper, and librarian may be an intimidating choice for some, Roy Kinsey’s non-conformist ideology has informed his poignant releases, BLACKIE: A Story by Roy Kinsey, Kinsey: A Memoir, and most recently 3 RINGS. KINSEY: A Memoir and Blackie: A Story by Roy Kinsey capture the darkness of his shadow work, as sinister yet sincere lyrics provide a potent musical performance by Kinsey. “Kinsey’s observations are strong on ‘Memoir,’; shaped by early traumas that threatened to debilitate his belief in himself as well as the abilities of his family. His music is the manifestation of a Black queer man, coming of age in Chicago.” – Leor Galil, Chicago Reader.
Gracing the covers of prominent publications like Chicago Reader, Chicago Tribune, Billboard, LA Times, NPR, WBEZ’s Vocalo, and WGCI to name a few, this coverage proves that Kinsey’s goal to preserve rap as a literary art form resonates. His contributions are offerings to the canon of Black queer literature and hip-hop.
Kinsey’s visual for his record BSAYF (B****, She Ain’t You Friend) – exploring Black queer identity, friendship and spirituality – premiered at the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA), the Art Institute of Chicago, the Harold Washington Cultural Center and the Du Sable Museum. Kinsey has shared his lyrics on the stages of the legendary Pritzker Pavilion at Millennium Park, the Silver Room Block Party, Pride at the Park in Grant Park, First Avenue in Minnesota, Thalia Hall, Soho House, Empty Bottle, and House of Blues.
His professional development in librarianship has fueled his desire for self-examination and reporting his findings in rhyme. He believes his creative works touch the hearts of many because it comes from the heart.
Photo by Steven Vargas
Bio as of 3/2024