Claire Michelle is a multi-talented American musician, artist, and video blogger whose creative work and personal journey have inspired a growing audience across the United States and beyond. Hailing from Seattle, Claire stands out not only for her musical talents but also as one of the few openly transgender musicians actively shaping the local arts scene. Through her work in band management, her solo projects, and her engaging YouTube channel, she has created a platform that combines artistry with authenticity, offering a window into both her creative life and her experiences as a transgender woman. Claire’s YouTube channel, which she originally started as a personal diary, has grown into a vital space for education and visibility, where she documents the intricacies of transition while sharing her love of music. From her “Trans Singing 101” series, designed to guide trans women in finding their feminine singing voice, to candid travel vlogs and performance videos, Claire demonstrates both technical skill and a genuine desire to empower others. Her work resonates deeply with fans, many of whom reach out to her to share how her journey has encouraged them to pursue their own artistic dreams or embrace their identities with confidence.
In addition to her music and videography, Claire is preparing to release a deeply personal single titled Fall, inspired by the death of her father and dedicated to the themes of grief, remembrance, and resilience. She connects these universal human experiences to the transgender community, highlighting the often tragic realities many trans people face while emphasizing hope and perseverance. Beyond her artistic pursuits, Claire actively participates in the local LGBTQ community, performing at events, supporting fellow trans artists, and using her platform to raise awareness about trans issues. She draws inspiration from role models like Danni Askini, the Seattle-based trans activist and founder of the Gender Justice League, and she approaches both her artistry and advocacy with thoughtfulness, integrity, and compassion. Claire’s journey is also deeply personal. She has navigated the uncertainties of coming out, the challenges of social transition, and the ongoing process of finding herself in a world that often misunderstands trans identities. Her reflections on love, acceptance, and inner peace offer insight into the emotional depth behind her art, while her humor, honesty, and resilience make her a relatable and inspiring figure.
In this interview, we will explore Claire Michelle’s life as an artist and activist, her experiences as a transgender woman in today’s world, and the vision she has for her future in both music and community engagement. From creative projects and personal milestones to thoughts on politics, representation, and the pursuit of happiness, Claire offers a rich and nuanced perspective that is both enlightening and empowering. Please join me in welcoming Claire Michelle.
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| The single cover. |
Monika: Today, I’m thrilled to be speaking with Claire Michelle, an American musician, artist, and video blogger who not only showcases her musical talents but also shares the deeper aspects of her transition on YouTube. Hi Claire, welcome!
Claire: Hi Monika! Thanks so much for documenting the history of so many transgender people, you really are doing us all a great service! I hope this interview helps others feel seen and inspired to pursue their own passions.
Monika: Could you start by telling us a little about yourself and your work?
Claire: I’m a Seattleite and currently the only transgender musician in Seattle. I also manage bands for other local artists and have quite a few smaller projects, including my YouTube channel! Beyond my music and videos, I enjoy collaborating with other creatives and helping amplify their voices in the community.
Monika: I hear you have a new single coming out soon. Can you tell us what inspired it?
Claire: I do! I wrote a song for the Transgender Day of Remembrance last year and decided to release it as a single. It’s titled “Fall” and explores the relationship between death and grief. Writing it helped me process the loss of my father and find the motivation to go on “for him” rather than “without him.” Music has always been a way for me to channel my emotions, and this song is one of the most personal pieces I’ve ever created.
Monika: How do you think “Fall” connects with the transgender community?
Claire: I think it resonates deeply because the death rate is unfortunately high for trans people. The song speaks to the grief, resilience, and hope that so many in our community experience. I hope listeners can find both comfort and strength in it, and perhaps see a reflection of their own journeys in the music.
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| Transgender Day of Remembrance (YouTube) |
Monika: You must get a lot of questions from your fans. What are they usually curious about?
Claire: As one of the few transgender musicians, the majority of my fans ask me questions about singing and performing. I also get a lot of people telling me that I’m an inspiration to them, which is a pretty amazing feeling. Sharing my journey and seeing how it impacts others motivates me to keep creating.
Monika: Has any response from a fan particularly touched you recently?
Claire: Yes! Recently, someone covered my song “Out of the Shadows” and told me in a note that I helped her realize singing and performing were possible even after transition. That one really tugged at my heartstrings. It reminded me how powerful music can be in connecting people and offering hope.
Monika: What is the strangest question you’ve ever received from someone online?
Claire: The strangest hasn’t come from a fan, but from haters. I feel the majority of them are not even sure what they are asking, but they feel the need to add their two cents. Sometimes the confusion in their questions is almost comical, but it highlights how little some people understand about trans experiences.
Monika: How do you usually respond to these kinds of comments?
Claire: I typically reply with an educational response, doing my best not to take their comments personally and to avoid conflict. I want trans people to be seen as respectful and kind, not the stereotype the world would like us to be. It’s important to me to model patience and understanding, even in the face of ignorance.
Monika: What inspired you to document your transition and share it on YouTube?
Claire: I always felt close to the platform. With my videography skills and a big journey ahead of me, I felt it was only right to document my life for myself. I really started the channel for myself so I could look back on who I was all those years ago. I had no idea it was going to get as popular as it has! Sharing my experiences has also allowed me to connect with people I never would have met otherwise.
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| Claire modeling for her music. |
Monika: When you create your videos, do you plan them in advance or improvise as you go?
Claire: I typically have an idea in mind, and depending on the depth of the film, I may or may not write a script. My “Trans Singing 101” series was fully scripted because I didn’t want to repeat information and wanted to focus on helping trans women find their feminine singing voice. Some films, like my travel vlogs, are not scripted, but I do try to capture shots that draw the viewer in. Planning in advance helps me balance creativity with clarity in my videos.
Monika: Looking back, what was the most challenging part of coming out?
Claire: I was afraid of the unknown. I worried about how much my life would change and feared the effects on my personal and dating life… where I would end up, whether people would take me seriously, and whether I would take myself seriously. A lot of my transition was about facing personal fears, not so much those of the people around me. It taught me the importance of self-trust and resilience.
Monika: Where are you in your transition at the moment?
Claire: I’m nearing 2.5 years now and well past the point of social transition. I’m no longer seeing my male self in the mirror, which is wonderful for my dysphoria. I’m looking into surgeries now, but as an artist and entrepreneur, surgery seems somewhat out of reach… maybe someday! I’m learning to celebrate the progress I’ve made so far, regardless of the timeline.
Monika: Are you happy with the effects of hormone therapy so far?
Claire: Very! I find that one should not rush to FFS when they start hormones, as many changes naturally happen over time. Hormones have helped me feel more aligned with myself, both physically and emotionally. I’ve been amazed by how much patience and consistency can transform not only appearance but confidence as well.
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| Claire performing at the Columbia City Theater in Seattle on 1/27/17. |
Monika: Do you have any transgender role models who inspire you personally or professionally?
Claire: I have one role model in the trans community, Danni Askini, a Seattle trans activist and founder of the Gender Justice League. I’m inspired by her work ethic and her level-headedness when faced with bigots. Her dedication reminds me that advocacy and personal growth can go hand in hand, and it motivates me to continue using my platform responsibly.
Monika: Are you active politically? Do you participate in lobbying campaigns, and do you think transgender women can make an impact in politics?
Claire: Trans women can make a difference, and so can trans men! In fact, anyone can make a difference if they believe in their cause and work hard enough for it. I’m not very active, but I do march occasionally and participate in local rallies from time to time. Even small actions, I’ve found, can ripple out to create meaningful change.
Monika: How do you view the current situation for transgender women in the United States?
Claire: The United States has been tarnished. The president and his vice president reflect the direction this country is headed. I fear trans people will be losing privileges left and right, but I still have hope for our fight. The landscape is complicated, with pockets of very liberal-minded communities alongside conservative areas, and navigating this divide requires both caution and courage.
Monika: How involved are you in your local LGBTQ community?
Claire: I am! I typically perform at events organized by my trans siblings and try to bring more attention to LGBTQ arts through my own video project called 12for12. I also work to raise awareness of trans people by sharing my music on the radio, TV, and at local heteronormative events. Engaging with my community helps me stay connected and strengthens the sense of solidarity we all need.
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| Claire modeling for her music. |
Monika: How has love shaped your life, and what role does it play in your personal journey?
Claire: I’ve tried and failed many times to find love. I haven’t given up, but my hope is dwindling. I try to focus on finding happiness through what I have, not what I want. I’ve learned that self-love and acceptance are just as important as romantic love in creating a fulfilling life.
Monika: What advice would you give to transgender women who are afraid of transition, discrimination, or hatred?
Claire: It will be scary, it will be different, and it may seem impossible, but it’s worth it. The happiness you’ll experience is unlike any other, and the peace of mind you gain after transition is beyond comprehension until you actually experience it. Surrounding yourself with supportive people can make the journey more manageable and empowering.
Monika: What is your next step right now, and where do you see yourself in the next 5 to 7 years?
Claire: My next step is to finish this cup of hot cocoa, head home, and fall asleep! Thank God for late-night coffee shops! In 5–7 years, I see myself being a crucial part of the Seattle music scene in both my music and business career, and I’m excited about my future. I hope to continue growing as an artist while inspiring others in my community along the way.
Monika: Claire, it has been an absolute pleasure talking with you. Thank you so much for your time!
Claire: Thanks so much for having me. I really appreciate the chance to share my story and connect with others who may be inspired by it.
All the photos: courtesy of Claire Michelle.
© 2017 - Monika Kowalska
