JoySauce Radio: Celebrate Pride with songs by trans musicians of Asian descent
Because there's no better way to explore gender and express yourself than through music
From left, cover art for “Haldi” by Mya Mehmi, “Serotonin Serenade” by SuperKnova, and “Becoming You” by BB Sway.
Photo illustration by Ryan Quan
Words by Anjana Pawa
Happy Pride, JoySauce Radio listeners! Music has always been a lifeline for queer communities and a space for expression when language sometimes fails. In a time when trans rights are under attack across the United States, and across the globe, it’s time for us to listen more deeply to stories that don’t fit neatly into the binaries we were taught to know. This month’s list spotlights trans musicians of Asian descent whose art encompasses both richness and resistance. From dreamy pop to raw acoustic ballads, these tracks explore gender and healing, cultural belonging, and the transformative power of finally becoming your true self.
“Serotonin Serenade” by SuperKnova
Superknova is a Chicago-based queer Korean American musician and producer who makes electro-pop hits that are full of heart and soul, creating healing tunes for the queer community and beyond. “Serotonin Serenade” feels like a euphoric ride through all of your deepest, darkest feelings. The tune is synthy, dreamy, and you’ll definitely want to put this on your summer playlist.
“Becoming You” by BB Sway
Hong Kong-born, London-based BB Sway is a nonbinary pop artist who has a knack for making songs that sound sparkly. “Becoming You” is an ode to the sacred process of self-discovery and being scared to find the wrong versions of yourself. The lo-fi beats and lush vocals make this a calming listen.
“Haldi” by Mya Mehmi
British Punjabi artist Mya Mehmi blends traditional South Asian sound with experimental Western beats, drawing most of her inspiration from her trans femme identity and her deep roots within the diaspora. “Haldi” is her way of reclaiming patriarchal values within a reimagining of a South Asian wedding tradition, the pre-wedding turmeric ceremony. Her vocals are rich and within the song, she finds personal liberation.
“Fix Me” by Jake Zyrus
Jake Zyrus (formerly professionally known as Charice) is a Filipino trans man whose powerful voice first gained global attention more than 10 years ago. His expansive career has included working with Kyunhun from Super Junior, a stint on the musical high school drama Glee, and performing at Madison Square Garden. “Fix Me” is a powerful ballad about being broken, healing, and reclaiming one’s identity.
“My Body’s My Home” by Ryan Cassata
Singer-songwriter Ryan Cassata has used his music to advocate for trans rights for most of his career. “My Body’s My Home” is intimate and anthemic, tracing his journey as a trans man navigating dysphoria and finding where he belongs. This folky tune is intimate, personal, and reaffirms that his body is indeed his home.
Published on June 24, 2025
Words by Anjana Pawa
Anjana Pawa is a Brooklyn-based culture reporter who regularly covers music, entertainment and beauty. You can find her on Twitter at @apawawrites.
Art by Ryan Quan
Ryan Quan is the Social Media Editor for JoySauce. This queer, half-Chinese, half-Filipino writer and graphic designer loves everything related to music, creative nonfiction, and art. Based in Brooklyn, he spends most of his time dancing to hyperpop and accidentally falling asleep on the subway. Follow him on Instagram at @ryanquans.