Tanya Rodriguez, professionally known as Kuzh (pronounced “Cush”), is an artist whose music is not just a reflection of her life but a vehicle for change and empowerment. Born in Virginia and of Dominican descent, Kuzh’s journey has taken her from the school talent shows of her childhood to the contemporary music scene in Shelby, North Carolina, where she now resides. Her story is one of perseverance, self-expression, and a passion for both music and community outreach.
Music has always been an integral part of Kuzh’s life. Her early days in Virginia saw her participating in elementary school talent shows, which ignited a passion for performance. However, it was in her local church choir that she began to overcome her stage fright and find the confidence to fully express herself vocally. Her summers spent with her grandmother in the Dominican Republic enriched her sense of identity and helped her develop a connection to her roots, which has influenced her music in profound ways.
Kuzh’s journey has been anything but conventional. Her path as an LGBTQ woman of color has come with many societal challenges, but she has used these experiences to strengthen her resolve. As someone once remarked, “She’s a bit out of the box,” referring to the way Kuzh challenges many of the expectations placed on female artists, particularly those who are LGBTQ and people of color. These experiences have given Kuzh the resilience and strength to carve out her own space in the music world, where she defies genres and refuses to be pigeonholed.
Musically, Kuzh embraces a range of styles, from R&B to experimental, creating a sound that is as dynamic as it is unexpected. Her music often surprises people because it doesn’t conform to one specific genre. “We just say contemporary,” she explains, pointing to her ability to blend different musical elements into a cohesive whole. Whether it’s a soulful ballad or a more avant-garde experimental track, Kuzh’s music captures the complexity of her identity and the emotions she conveys.
Beyond her music, Kuzh is also using her platform to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. With a growing social media following—boasting 50,000 fans on both Facebook and TikTok—Kuzh has found a way to connect with her audience on a deeper level. She frequently uses her platform to raise awareness about important social issues, including mental health and disabilities. Recently, she featured two women with cerebral palsy on her social media, giving them a voice and raising awareness about their condition. Kuzh is someone who regularly helps others, whether on social media or in everyday encounters. “She’s very giving. Not everything is for content,” says one of her followers.
Since moving to Shelby, Kuzh has embraced the town as her new home and is actively seeking ways to give back to the community. She is planning to team up with local organizations to host events and meet the needs of those in the area. “We want to give back,” she explains, adding that her success as a social media influencer has provided her with the resources to make a meaningful impact. This commitment to community service is at the core of Kuzh’s mission, both as an artist and as a person.
In terms of her music career, Kuzh continues to gain momentum with each new release. Her music is available on all major platforms, including YouTube, Apple Music, Spotify, and Amazon Music. One of her most popular songs, Toxic, speaks to the importance of self-preservation and cutting out negative influences. The song’s message of self-empowerment has resonated deeply with her fans, many of whom see Kuzh as a role model for overcoming adversity and staying true to oneself.
Kuzh’s music is more than just entertainment—it’s a statement. It’s a call for people to embrace who they are, regardless of the challenges they face. As she continues to build her career and expand her influence, Kuzh is dedicated to using her platform for good, whether that’s through her music or her efforts to uplift those around her.
For more information about Kuzh and her music, visit her website at thekuzhzone.com or follow her on social media. With her unique voice, inspiring message, and unwavering commitment to her community, Kuzh is an artist who is not only making her mark in the music world but also changing lives along the way.
