DeepSummary
Laverne Cox discusses her journey with finding and accepting her voice, both speaking and singing, as a transgender woman. She reflects on the challenges of having a deep voice that is often perceived as masculine, and the process of unlearning internalized transphobia and embracing her unique vocal qualities. Cox shares her passion for singing, despite facing criticism and trauma around her voice, and her determination to keep practicing and improving.
Cox delves into the technical aspects of singing, exploring concepts like pitch, dynamics, breath control, and resonance. She acknowledges the difficulties she faces in mastering these techniques but finds joy in the process and considers singing a creative outlet vital for her mental well-being. Cox also touches on the linguistic nuances around gender and biology, aiming to disrupt normative assumptions.
Throughout the episode, Cox emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance, particularly for artists who use their bodies and voices as instruments. She encourages trans individuals to embrace their voices, regardless of societal expectations, and to find beauty in their unique expressions. Cox concludes by affirming her commitment to artistic growth, perpetual learning, and the ongoing pursuit of becoming her best self.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- Embrace and find beauty in the qualities that make you unique, even if they challenge societal norms.
- Self-acceptance and self-love are essential, especially for artists who use their bodies and voices as instruments.
- Remain committed to continuous learning, growth, and self-improvement, regardless of setbacks or criticisms.
- Creative expression can be a vital outlet for personal well-being and mental health, beyond commercial considerations.
- Challenge normative assumptions and strive for a more nuanced understanding of complex concepts like gender and biology.
- Persevere in pursuing your passions, even in the face of trauma or societal criticism.
- Find joy and fulfillment in the process of artistic expression, rather than solely focusing on the end product.
- Recognize the value of resources and support systems that can aid in personal and artistic growth.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “I'm trying to disrupt the normative assumptions that we have around biology and the gender binary and all of that kind of stuff.“ by Laverne Cox
- “I am forever in a state of practice.“ by Herbie Revolis
- “And when you're an artist, when your body is your instrument, when my emotional life is an actor is my instrument, my voice is my instrument, my body's my instrument, the levels of self acceptance required are really on a whole other level. It is so incredibly vulnerable, but it is also wonderful.“ by Laverne Cox
Entities
Company
Person
Product
Song
Episode Information
The Laverne Cox Show
Shondaland Audio and iHeartPodcasts
10/5/23