in my eyes – TONIE
About “in my eyes”
“in my eyes” is a trans empowerment anthem written by a TONIE, a Vietnamese-American trans singer-songwriter for the Slants Foundation’s PaCIVICs program. In this program, they were tasked to partner with nonprofit Point of Pride to create a song that will drive social change.
TONIE wrote the song to turn their anger against right wing men spreading anti-trans hate into a tongue in cheek pop bop imploring the listener to ignore them and keep being your hot self. “in my eyes” celebrates the beauty of trans people, reassuring the listener that they are beautiful no matter how they identify and implores them to stay strong in the face of hate. Trans joy is how we find power in a world trying to erase us.
About TONIE
TONIE is doing their very best to help you feel comfortable in your own skin.
The LA-native writes and produces each synth-pop track from the comfort of their skylit home studio in Brooklyn, NY — a perfect backdrop for the emotional vulnerability that colors their lyrics.
They have been featured on the nationally syndicated program “PaCIVICs” where they discussed and advocated for trans rights in the United States. Their music has been featured in Spotify’s “New From NYC: Pop” playlist and publications, such as Buzz Music: LA, Mobangeles, and The Music Bugle.
Social Media
During live shows, TONIE dives deep into moments from their life that inspire them and the stories behind their music. They hope that through their combination of vulnerability and bombastic energy, listeners will experience catharsis and feel empowered to embrace who they are fully, without holding back.
Photos by Jealyn McFadden
“[TONIE] has created a perfect, balanced blend of fear-infused lyricism”
Rock Era Magazine 2022
“[TONIE] pierces the listener’s soul with his instant likeability. . . [their] music bed has sophisticated and far-reaching levels.”
Mobangeles 2020