FOR Filipino drag queen M1ss Jade So, who recently represented the Philippines in the series Drag Race Down Under vs. The World, making music allows her to morph into provocative figures beyond what she usually does in her drag persona. So, it is not a surprise that her latest singles, “BAPHOMETA” and “GODDESSA,” released over a month ago, present twisted visions of light and dark.
“In drag, I tend to perform polished performances, using pop, which people can easily digest because that’s the mainstream. But as an artist, I want to explore the alternative side,” Ms. So said at an interview with BusinessWorld on Oct. 14 in Makati City. “I love to do experimental things; I love to perform differently than usual.”
Known as Manila’s “doll dominatrix and esoteric drag queen superstar,” M1ss Jade So first competed on season two of Drag Race Philippines. She was a top four finalist in both that season and the Australian franchise of the show, which aired earlier this year. Outside of drag, she is a rising recording artist under the independent label Offshore Music.
She is looking forward to unveiling the more devilish and divine sides of herself. The single “BAPHOMETA” was inspired by the goat-headed Western pagan figure Baphomet, while “GODDESSA” channels self-affirming chants that symbolize her rebirth.
“I incorporate my life experiences [into the music], whether it’s trauma or an achievement or a celebratory moment. It’s good to be able to write about it, to really see it from a different perspective. It’s a good process of healing,” the musician said.
With the tracks produced by frequent collaborator Naive Supreme, Ms. So’s music tends to be bass-powered and enchanting, with electronic synths providing an ethereal sound. The musical textures used aim to communicate a “spiritual and mortal shift.”
She cited influences like Lady Gaga and FKA Twigs. “When I saw them live, I felt so inspired, like they welcomed me into their world. I want that type of feeling, too, in my art,” she said.
Being a trans woman also motivates Ms. So to live not just to the fullest, but “infinitely,” as per her own words, outside heteronormative expectations that box people into male or female.
“I have to live infinitely because I get to acknowledge my capabilities. There’s no ending in sight. What’s important is to see your evolution and what else you can become,” she said.
Ms. So explained that focusing on mental health is a huge part of being able to partake in “the beautiful chaos of drag and music.
“I’ve been reconnecting with the nature, recentering myself, and resetting,” she said. “As of now, all the bookings that are coming in locally and internationally, I’m saving for next year.”
According to her, the inner work allows her to project her best self on camera and onstage, to whatever audience may be watching.
“I’m a sensitive person. I’m emotional. I feel things deeply,” she said. “The important thing is that I can defend my art and the people it will inspire, the people it will touch.”
“BAPHOMETA” and “GODDESSA” are out now on all digital music streaming platforms. — Brontë H. Lacsamana