i.V King’s “Magic Castle” is a song where the artist finds herself and finds herself speaking on past experiences growing up. It’s, in some ways, a polar opposite to the swagger exhibited on her “Super Freak” cover. It also has an undercurrent of how she’s had to come to realize that she’ll always have to be there for herself–even when others seemingly aren’t. That sort of self-love is important. That’s because even if we’re with others, we eventually need to still be okay. Okay with ourselves, okay with who we are, and okay with the fact that others may not always “get” you and…well, that’s quite okay in its own right.

While I’m not a queer artist or critic, I empathize with the plight of artists like King because I had to grow up and be okay with myself as well. Granted, as a straight Black male, things were a bit easier. This isn’t about me, though. This is about KiNG and her beautiful songwriting and vocals. Those abilities breathe life into a concept that, quite possibly, may’ve been harder for her to do a while back. That sort of courage is commendable, especially when you can also use that courage to make beautiful music. Check out the powerful song below and support dope music in all its forms.