Shea Diamond American singer, songwriter and transgender rights activist Date of Birth: 17.03.1978 Country: USA

1. Early Life and Transition
2. Incarceration and Activism
3. Music Career
4. Recognition and Accomplishments
5. Collaboration and Film Soundtrack

Early Life and Transition

Diamond was born in Little Rock, Arkansas to a 14-year-old mother. She was named Bradley Leon until she transitioned at age 20.

Incarceration and Activism

Around age 14, Diamond left home and entered the foster care system. She was later sentenced to 10 years in prison for armed robbery to raise funds for gender confirmation surgery. During her incarceration from 1999-2009 in Michigan's male correctional facilities, she faced discrimination as a transgender woman and wrote the song "I Am Her."

Music Career

After her release, Diamond's cover of "I'd Love to Change the World" in 2017 led to a collaboration with Justin Tranter. Tranter signed her to Asylum Records and executive produced her debut EP, "Seen It All," released in 2018.

Recognition and Accomplishments

In 2019, Diamond was nominated for a GLAAD Media Award and was featured in the "Equality Rocks" campaign for the Human Rights Campaign. Her song "American Pie" became a theme for the 2020 presidential campaign of Pete Buttigieg. She also performed at the Capital Pride concert in Washington, D.C., and sang "I Am America" for the HBO series "We're Here."

Collaboration and Film Soundtrack

Diamond's hand was featured on the cover of Sam Smith's album "To Die For." She also appeared in the music video for Smith's song "I'm Ready" with Demi Lovato. Her songs "I Am America" and "Stand Up" were featured in the soundtrack for the Hulu film "Happiest Season."