Rising Stars: Meet Rakia Taylor of Colorado Springs

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rakia Taylor.

Hi Rakia, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I come from a small town where everything is the same; the most exciting thing is golf season. Ever since elementary school, I’ve always been into art and music. I come from poverty, so art and music were always my way to use my imagination of what I wanted life to be like or what I thought I would be. I went to the Army at 17, which still limits how I looked, dressed, etc. I held on to a life that wasn’t realistic to my heart. I got out of the military I finally started my transition from female to male. I began to attempt everything, but I failed instantly. The same week I got out of the Army, I was homeless, jobless, friendless, etc. I knew my journey was about to get hard. Dealing with being lost and transgender people was tuff. I used my struggles and lessons to make music and art. I tell the stories behind them and hope to spread a message. That’s how I came up with Vibes To Save Lives.

Let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Nothing was smooth about it. I had to face the adversities of being a homeless transgender person. I was pushed away from family. I was dealing with PTSD and Anxiety and sleeping in public laundry rooms. Couch hopping and sometimes sex work.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m known for my words and messages. I make music; I do art. I’m proud of my strength throughout the whole process.

Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs, or other resources you think our readers should check out?
Yes, social anxiety. I read inspirational books about self-care and breaking cycles.

Contact Info:

• Email: ho0dhippie@icloud.com
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCj0vl8Wo1ktkFEsRMT4jmoQ
• SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.app.goo.gl/WqxEvtA8WaVW8x4j8