Featured Artist - Tea Fannie

The artist formerly known as S.H.E. is Tea Fannie, a hallowed Calgarian hip hop humanitarian. You may have seen her recently opening for Super Duty Tough Work In Winnipeg late 2023, but this humble and hardworking artist has graced some of the premiere musical experiences in this city and is a mainstay of the hip hop and R&B scene here in Mohkinstsis, recently performing backed by a magnanimous six-piece ensemble at Calgary Folk Fest.   Follow Tea Fannie on instagram.

Her biggest song is “Okay” but it’s hardly just that; it’s an observational and honest chill rap rife with introspection. The song, alongside with Tea, is featured on a documentary airing soon on Telus Optik TV. Her earnest sense of community references spaces, experiences and personalities that drive Alberta’s underspoken hip hop underground. She’s a community cheerleader, outspoken political critic, and the most uplifting to be around. She is releasing a full album produced by Junia-T and Mark James in September 2024. So, here’s the tea, you’ll be a fan in no time.

1. What is the coolest show you have ever played? 

I'd have to say it's a toss up between Sled Island 2022 and BreakOut West 2022. For 2 very different reasons. Sled was me stepping onto the biggest stage I'd ever touched this far, to the biggest crowd, and I felt like I had something to prove. Like the reason I got put in this opportunity. And I think we did that. And BOW, psshh I got the opportunity to play 2 wildly different sets, and one we made into a double set because they were kind enough to let K-Riz and I play back to back. We took advantage of that and just rehearsed a 1 hour set between the 2 of us. Created a one of a kind experience!

2. How do you keep yourself healthy and happy working in music?

I used to wait and take weekly breaks off of everything, but soon realized music is my loml (love of my life) and I can't stay away for too long. Constantly creating. But someone close to me introduced me to the idea of taking smaller breaks, all the time! So I've been doing that for a couple years now and it seems to work great so far! I mean, all the time y'all. Like if i have a few hours to do nothing. That's what I'm going to do. If I need a day in bed. I'm taking it. Listen to my body and so what I feel in as many ways possible.

3. What is the biggest challenge you've experienced in getting to where you are?

Up until last year, being the only femme or gay performer on the lineup. I'm seeing that change now though, slowly. I'll take it. Stay positive and all that.

4. What is the best part of your life that isn't music related?

My squad. I'm very grateful for my circle and having a better ability in my grown age to see and accept people for exactly who they are.

5. What is the best advice you have been given in the music business?

Oof, I'm fortunate to have gotten so much advice from my peers over the years, aah you're making me choose one, okok. Best advice I'd say was to articulate my words. I worked hard on that too lol