Independent rapper, songwriter, and Year 2 GLAAD EMEI cohort member, Suni MF, is redefining what it means to take up space in hip-hop. The openly Black lesbian artist recently made waves after winning a BMI Award by Broadcast Music Inc. for her contributions to Drake’s chart-topping track Rich Baby Daddy. This recognition is proof that queer voices are vital to shaping today’s music.
In an industry that has often marginalized or silenced queer perspectives, Suni MF’s win feels like a cultural shift. It’s rare to see Black lesbian artists not only writing for some of the biggest names in music but also being credited and celebrated on a national stage. Her journey as an independent artist underscores the power of creativity and authenticity in a space that doesn’t always make room for difference.
GLAAD spoke with Suni MF about her journey, the importance of representation, and what this milestone means for her and the community she represents.
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GLAAD: Winning a BMI Award for writing on a chart-topping Drake song is a huge accomplishment. What does this recognition mean to you personally and professionally?
Suni MF: This recognition means everything to me. Personally, it’s a reminder that the work I’ve been putting in behind the scenes; the late nights, the risks, the sacrifices ; is paying off. Professionally, it validates me as both a songwriter and artist. To be honored alongside a record as big as Rich Baby Daddy shows that my pen, my perspective, and my voice belong in these rooms and on this level.
GLAAD: Can you share what it was like being part of the creative process and contribution towards Rich Baby Daddy?
Suni MF: My contribution comes through No Panties, a record I wrote for Issa Rae’s Rap Sh!t soundtrack that Sexyy Red performed. That song carried the energy and inspiration that became Rich Baby Daddy. The sessions for No Panties were lit af! it was me, Snacks from the Breed at first and we were cooking up and I remember Snack’s was making the beat and I was sitting on the couch thinking what’s the wildest shit I can say that would shock Issa while making every woman feel seen at the same time. Then “I ain’t got no panties onnnnnnnnnnn gotta let this coochie breathe” came to my head and I automatically knew the hook was crazy! I had to call in the homies hear and be apart of it so then Guapdad 4000, PineappleCITI, Talibah Safiya & I started writing the verses! The whole room felt like a party, and we were just throwing out bold, raw, fun ideas. That creative spark ended up opening the door to my credit on Rich Baby Daddy.
GLAAD: Hip-hop hasn’t always been the most welcoming space for both women and queer voices. What challenges have you faced, and how do you navigate them while staying true to yourself and what you’re aiming for?
Suni MF: It’s true… as a woman and as a queer artist, you sometimes walk into spaces where you feel like you have to prove yourself twice. I’ve faced being underestimated, overlooked, or boxed in. But instead of letting that discourage me, I’ve leaned into my authenticity. My identity, my perspective, and use that moment as a teaching and learning lesson for those who may need it. By staying true to who I am, I’ve been able to build real connections with fans and collaborators who respect the art and the vision. I want to work with people that understand I’m here to build the legacy of “MUSIC” and that’s gonna come in all different types of people, colors, shapes and sizes. Music is an energy and that’s that what I always want to remind people back to that’s what I’m giving to.
GLAAD: Looking back at your journey so far, what would you tell your younger self who was just starting to dream about music?
Suni MF: I would tell my younger self: trust God, trust your voice, trust your vision and don’t wait for permission to be great. The ideas that feel wild, risky, or too honest are usually the ones that change everything. Keep going, because the rooms you dream about walking into, you’re already invited in.
GLAAD: Winning a BMI Award is a milestone, but what’s next for you? Are there personal projects or collaborations you’re especially excited about?
Suni MF: This BMI Award is a milestone, and it’s just the beginning. I’m working on new music that reflects where I am as well as who I am now…both as an artist and a person… and I’m excited to share that with the world. My next single is “Sticky” featuring COZZ produced by Xander Rushie & Donut. And really looking for a home for my catalog and continue to build myself, my relationship with God, my music, my story & my goals. I’m also diving deeper into collaborations across film. A series I’m producing called “P Talk” we raised $10k need $6,000 more lmao && What excites me most is continuing to build a legacy where my voice and my story create space for others to shine too and through.
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Be sure to keep up with Suni MF on her socials here and check out her music to stream and buy on here and here!
