Shaw Cain is one to watch. As a non-binary queer artist based in Detroit, Michigan, they have released their highly anticipated debut EP Black Popstar, now available on all streaming platforms. The genre bending project takes influence from their Detroit roots with house and techno inspired pop-dance tracks.

The self-proclaimed pop star uses their soulful vocals to speak about experiences with mental health, and life as a Black Queer person and spread messages about injustices. Shaw Cain seamlessly glides between genres creating something new and positively energetic with classic pop culture nostalgic.

Shaw Cain is an independent creative powerhouse producing timeless dance tracks to make you move with pride. “I reflected on the world around me and the unique time I was in during this period of my life. I became a more real version of myself from the beginning to now.” Hawkins continues to push boundaries with each new release and Black Popstar is a strong indication of their direction looking into the future.

“So many times in my life as Black Queer person, people have to tried to invalidate my path- and the only person I had to prove myself to was me. I knew that my work would speak for itself.”

By combining late 20th century house sounds with explosive pop beats, Cain creates a soulfully rich, harmonic soundscape that can only be described as a melting pot of ingenuity. Black Popstar is high-energy, emotional, and extremely fun album release. Reginald takes listeners to different places while reflecting on their own personal journey with self-acceptance.

Earlier this summer, Hawkins released their explosive single, To Each His Own, which encourages listeners to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams. Cain started recording music at 17 years old and has been writing music since 8th grade. They released their first single “Playing for Keeps” in 2019.

Growing up in between Detroit and the suburbs, they have a unique viewpoint of the world through their experiences with juxtapositions in the world around them. Their discography reflects this with a sound that resonates with a myriad of communities, sexualities and cultures. Shaw Cain is an advocate for people to use their voice and be unafraid in their endeavors and encourages their listeners to live their lives authentically and embrace their truth whole heartedly.

Shaw Cain will be performing on Friday, August 27th, 2021, at the Loving Touch in Ferndale, MI.

UPCOMING! Shaw Cain will perform alongside Big Freedia on their upcoming tour at Majestic Theater in Detroit, MI on Wednesday, September 26th, 2021. Door opens at 7P; tickets are $25 presale / $30 at the door. 

Album Photography Credits:

Creative Direction: Shaw Cain, @blackpopstar

Shot by: Zach Haggy, @zachhagy

Makeup: Kavondre Onazh, @makeupbykavondre

Barber: Crystal Combs, @dwolexposed

Custom Corset: Christiana Laine, @cb.laine

Styling: Shaw Cain @blackpopstar

Graphic Design: Conner Meager, @connermeager

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