promqueen is an artist who defies expectations, and her debut single “Xi Xon” is no exception. Born out of a decade-long memoir project, the track showcases promqueen’s ability to seamlessly blend her Vietnamese heritage and American upbringing. Through her music, she tells her story as a second-generation child of immigrants, and invites her listeners to join her on a journey of self-discovery.
The name “promqueen” is a nod to prom culture and the pressure to conform to traditional beauty standards. However, promqueen takes this stereotype and turns it on its head, using her music as a vehicle for self-expression and empowerment. Her debut single “Xi Xon” is an energetic and playful track, full of sass and attitude. The title itself means “extra sassy” or “wearing too much lipstick,” a term that her parents used to describe her as a child whenever she sang and danced.
“Every time I lose sight and become mired in streaming numbers, followers and clout, I remind myself that I did the damn thing, I put myself out there and I’m proud of it.” — promqueen
The track features promqueen rapping in Vietnamese, a language that is rarely heard in mainstream pop music. By incorporating her heritage into her music, she hopes to inspire other Asian American artists to do the same. In an interview with Eat This Music, promqueen said, “I’m very proud to share about my Vietnamese upbringing when I was raised to keep it all in and try to fit in with my White friends. It’s been a process of letting go of trying to fit in and just be myself.”
“Xi Xon” is a collaboration between promqueen and waverly – and was inspired by Milli’s “Mirror Mirror” song – the track came together quickly, a testament to the creative chemistry between the two artists. The final version of the song is a dynamic and adventurous journey that takes listeners on a ride through promqueen’s life.
The music video for “Xi Xon” is equally playful, featuring promqueen dancing in a variety of settings, including a laundromat, a beauty salon, and a supermarket. Throughout the video, she wears a signature pink wig that adds to the track’s overall aesthetic. The video is a celebration of self-expression and self-confidence, and perfectly captures the spirit of the song.
“The song came so quickly, like lightning speed, which is where I believe all special creative moments come from.” — promqueen
As promqueen continues to release new music, she remains true to herself and her values. She says, “Every time I lose sight and become mired in streaming numbers, followers and clout, I remind myself that I did the damn thing, I put myself out there and I’m proud of it. If I am not laughing and having fun doing this, then I need to stop altogether.” Her second single, set to release on March 22, 2023, is inspired by her mom and promises to be just as riotous as “Xi Xon.”
promqueen’s debut single “Xi Xon” is a vibrant and exciting introduction to an artist who is unafraid to be herself. By sharing her Vietnamese heritage and queer identity through her music, she is paving the way for a new generation of Asian American artists.
You can read a transcript of promqueen’s Q&A with Eat This Music here.
