Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. MJ Seaberry.
Dr. Seaberry, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I moved to Atlanta in June 2019 to begin my healing process. In Little Rock, I was raped, diagnosed with HIV, and fired from my job. When I got to Atlanta, I fell into a deep depression. My body started fighting itself. I went to the emergency room multiple times in two weeks and couldn’t keep any foods or medicines down, but I had friends that I considered family right next to my side the entire time.
I began working at Clayton County Public Schools and was trying to survive this world while inspiring and teaching children.
I went to work every day with a smile on my face and they had no idea I was dying inside. I attempted suicide three times. I almost ran myself off of the road on the day of my one year seroversary (the day I celebrate being diagnosed with HIV — because I’m thriving). However, there were angels sent to save my life that day. I called my mother Bernadette Seaberry and she told me find the nearest place I could go to. I looked up and I was near an exit where I knew a few people would be.
So I called Thrive SS and they said to come now. I was greeted by them as they wrapped me in hugs and a blanket and told me to rest. I was ready to go, but God had other plans for me.
Since that day, I have fought for my life. I have fought for my birthright to freedom and wealth. I will not stop until I see that in every area of my life.
I started going to therapy. I started talking to my mother about my life and problems more. I started being vocal about what the things that were silently killing me.
Then, the entire world shut down and I was forced to deal with the deep roots of my issues. I was forced to sit with myself and learn about all of the things that pained me at the time.
This led me to music. I’ve been a poet for years and years, but the pandemic and new friends pushed me into putting that poetry to song.
I had enough of listening to myself beat my mind up and treat my body violently.
I had to forgive myself for not protecting myself so many times in my life — for causing hurt to my body as I sought freedom.
But I did it and now I wake up every morning reminding myself to “come celebrate with me that everyday something has tried to kill me and has failed.”
My debut EP, “Please Baptize Me” is dedicated to my mother, Bernadette, and my brother, Jerome Seaberry Jr., because they have seen me at my lowest points and still call me son/brother. They have seen me angry at them, ignore them, run from them, and yet they still call me theirs.
I have learned to be relentless. I am fearless and am working in every way possible to be the light for another little Queer Black Boy that doesn’t see his value.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Absolutely not.
Mentally it’s been challenging to deal with all of the issues I sing about. I am facing trauma right in the face and singing its chains down. That’s not easy.
HIV, Depression, Anxiety, Suicide, and more. I am addressing it all unapologetically — there’s nothing easy about that.
I’ve found myself writing and crying, falling deeper into depression, dealing with childhood issues, and confronting people and situations that I’ve never had the guts to do previously.
Beyond the internal struggles, this industry is not kind. I’ve met people who don’t like my voice, my music, or my style as a Queer Man. I’ve reached out to many artists (both well known and upcoming) and it’s difficult to connect with genuine individuals who want to work. I am not one of the gatekeepers. I want everyone to win, but it doesn’t seem like everyone is on the same page.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a Black Queer singer/songwriter and producer that specializes in Alternative R&B, Alternative Gospel, and Spoken Word.
I am known for poetic writing and the ability to put other’s stories into beautiful words.
I am set apart because I am a poet and include poetry and spoken word in all of my work.
I am most proud of speaking my truth and living who I am out loud and on your speakers.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
I LOVE to collaborate with genuine artists who are ready and willing to put in the work. You can email me at DrSeaberry@ExodusForAll.Com or hit me up on any social media (@DrSeaberry).
Contact Info:
- Instagram:@DrSeaberry
- Twitter: @DrSeaberry
Image Credits
Reaux Woods Photography
