Rapper Dai Burger Talks Being a Queer Woman of Color in Hip-Hop

Dai Burger is NYC’s rainbow rap legend and responsible for hit songs like “Salty,” “Souffle,” and “Where My Girls At.” We sat down with the colorful creator to learn more about her start as a back-up dancer, her introduction into the rap game and her role as an intersectional feminist in hip-hop. Take a peek at our talk with Dai Burger below and stay tuned until the end for a listen to her new song, “Vitamin P.”

What was your upbringing like and how did you become a backup dancer?

Growing up as an only child, I was a bit hyperactive with a big imagination. So I began taking dance classes and that helped me focus my energy. I danced all through high school and shortly after began going to auditions. My first major gig was back-up dancing for Lil Mama, which gave me a big introduction to the industry of dancing and touring.

What inspired you to switch from dancing to rapping?

I’ve always been great with language and I’ve always had a style that’s a conversation piece, which led to people asking what else I was “good at.” I decided to take my love for language, fashion, art and dancing to the next level. I started putting together my first mix tape and began performing at up-and-coming NY spots.

How did New York City shape you as a musician?

I’m from Queens, but when I moved to Brooklyn, my newly found career really blossomed. I was able to be part of a new scene of DIY artists and party promoters. At most of the shows, I was performing for free, but the love I received in return was priceless. I was doing it for the love.

What inspired “Salty” and what’s the recipe for a good diss track?

“Salty” is just for the haters who can’t take the glow! I encourage everyone to be their best selves, so that includes continually leveling up and ignoring the haters. A good diss track includes talking your sh*t and letting everyone know “you can’t f*ck with me, period.”

What role does intersectional feminism play in your brand?

I represent the ladies so strongly because as a QPOC in this industry, I know how much harder it is for women to be seen and heard. We get so marginalized that it’s only right I speak up. I use my music to do this.

Why is black queer representation important in hip-hop?

Our art must be seen and our voices must be heard. We create many of the trends that can be seen in mainstream today. Hip-hop is slowly opening its doors and becoming more accepting and inclusive. I’m glad to be a voice in a genre that’s continually breaking the barrier.

What was your first tattoo, what is your favorite tattoo and what’s your most recent tattoo?

My first tattoo is of a little bird holding a heart. She’s kinda pitiful looking at this point but I still love her. My favorite is on my inner wrist, it’s a spin on “I ❤ NY,” but it’s I “BURGER” NY. This tattoo pretty much solidified “Dai Burger” as an entity. My most recent is a beautiful unicorn thigh piece that a friend of mine, Cake, did at her dope Brooklyn home studio. Six hours straight for this beauty.

What are three things that define the Dai Burger brand?

Being unique, being strong and being fearless.

What can we expect to see from you in 2020?

You can expect more music, more visuals, more concepts, more collaborations and of course, more tattoos.