Mizz Eerie caught up with Remove Records and spilled the tea on her influences, the importance of community, and what’s to come.
Tell us something about yourself.
Hello! My name is Mizz Eerie and I play bass in Whip Sock and Kinda Cute. One thing about me is I identify as non-binary, and more specifically genderfluid. For those unfamiliar, that just means that my gender isn’t static, and shifts over time. I’m not too particular about my pronouns, but when I’m performing I do prefer she/hers.
What are some of your musical influences?
It would be impossible to name all of the music I’m inspired by, but I can pinpoint a few standouts. Most notably, there’s David Bowie. For me, he is the epitome of an artist. He was fearless, fashionable, conceptual and his music evolved with the times.
Other musicians would be David Byrne, Adrianne Lenker, and Iggy Pop. As for some bands, Ceremony, Fugazi, and Sonic Youth were all really important in terms of rethinking how I approached music. In terms of scenes, I see the first incarnation of CBGB’s as a perfect model of how a prosperous music community should function.
And what are some non-musical influences?
It should come as no surprise I’m influenced by some drag queens. My favorite is Sharon Needles, who’s gothic and punk approach to drag very much directly inspired Mizz Eerie. I’d also have to say Rupaul. Many people know her as the host of Drag Race, but if you look back at early clips and the film Paris is Burning you’ll see how much of a badass she was. She was hanging out with the club kids of NYC, who inspire me from a fashion perspective.
A film/theater production that influenced me would be Hedwig & The Angry Inch. It’s a punk musical about a transgender woman. What else could you ask for?
In the world of art, I’m really inspired by the Dadaists. At one of the most absurd times in history, they created art that doubled-down on that seemingly inescapable hopelessness.
What are some of your favorite venues?
My favorite venues are always houses. I believe that having bands play in that environment is essential in the formation of a community. Since performers are mixed in with casual listeners, house venues offer up social transparency. The stakes are low and people can come and go as they please. Egos are out the door, and you realize bands are composed of real people. Lastly, houses allow for all ages events, art exhibitions, and more room for people to express themselves. They’re a safe haven for the alienated music fan.
My favorite venue is The Ham House, which is run by Joey, Haley, and Drew. They work hard to create a safe space and put together kickass events. They also put on the first-ever Hamtramck Pride! They're doing everything right in my book.
What advice would you give to someone just starting out in music/art?
Seek out community. Connect with like-minded people. Individually, you can only get so far. Together, we can accomplish so much. Put yourself out there. Offer to help out in any way you can. If your hearts in the right place, you’ll always be welcomed with open arms.
What are you working on next?
In many ways, I’m in the midst of a transitional time of my life. I’m moving around a lot and can’t seem to plant my feet anywhere for more than a few months. Whip Sock has some music in the pipeline, and I’m hoping that sees the light of day soon. My next goal is to form a punk group where Mizz Eerie can take a stab at being the frontwoman. The first batch of songs are written for that, and now its a matter of execution.
What do you think about the future of music/art?`