Pop R&B Singer Teraj’s Career, Pride Tour, and Favorite Places in NYC and Miami

Teraj Allen, or Teraj, was born and raised in Miami, specifically in the “close-knit, but rough AF neighborhood of Liberty City.” Those are his words, not ours. But it’s that street-wise hustle that transformed him into a man of many talents because, in addition to living his best life as a singer, Teraj is also a producer, media personality, and activist based in New York City.

And if you’re a fan of Vacationer Magazine, you may recognize this multi-talented guy because his boyfriend, Barry Hoy (aka @AsianMapleLeaf), a world traveler featured in our Vacationer of the Week franchise and he’s also a contributing writer for Vacationer. But we really wanted to get to know Barry’s longtime travel companion. So, we connect with Teraj, who dishes on his music career, offers words of wisdom to aspiring queer recording artists, and chats about his recent whirlwind tour to Pride events around the globe.  

As a working model, Teraj also spills the tea on his fashion style and we get some insider advice on the best places for LGBTQ+ travelers to eat, stay, and play when visiting Miami and the Big Apple. 

Vacationer Magazine: What sparked your passion to become a singer? Are there past or present singers or recording artists that inspire your Pop R&B style?

Teraj: I’ve always had a passion for singing and making music since I was a kid. I hid my singing talent from my family for the longest time by only singing while home alone and behind closed doors. I used to mimic the singing styles of Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, and Aaliyah, all of whom are still huge influences on my music and vocal stylings today.

Your debut album DEFY was released in 2019. What is the meaning behind the title and how would you describe this project?

The meaning behind the title of my album DEFY encapsulates my journey of overcoming the odds, refusing to succumb to a life of adversity, and building a life of success and triumph despite the stats and “predetermined” trajectory of someone born and raised in the projects of Miami, FL. 

For my introduction to the world as an artist, it was important for me to write and craft a concept album that shares my story and uses the power of song to empower others to live boldly in their truth and to strive for nothing less than being the best version of themselves. I’m so happy that I was able to tie these narratives and messages of encouragement into songs that are bops full of upbeat vibes, catchy lyrics, and all-around feel-good music.

What advice or tip would you give to other aspiring LGBTQ+ recording artists?

I’ve learned that there is no greater freedom of artistic expression, or freedom overall, than living unapologetically in my truth, being my authentic self, and walking, boldly, in my purpose. My advice to other aspiring LGBTQ+ recording artists is to embrace the journey of finding out who you are. When you find your voice, don’t be afraid to lean into it with all of your might, and know that you don’t have to have it all figured out. 

The secret is every single one of us is figuring everything out as we go, no matter how high up the chain of achievement. So, don’t think that you have to be in a certain place, reach a certain milestone, or have everything perfectly lined up. Just go out there, begin your journey of becoming who you are meant to be, and give it your best.

Please tell us how you identify yourself on the LGBTQIA spectrum. Tell us if how you identify influences the way your travel. If so, how?

On the LGBTQIA+ spectrum, I proudly identify as Pansexual. My identity does have a significant impact on how I travel the world since “homosexuality” is criminalized in 69 countries. Because of anti-LGBTQ+ laws in these countries, I always do my research before traveling somewhere new, for safety purposes and the preference of traveling to places where I can be my authentic self.

Vacationer featured you and your boyfriend Barry Hoy in our travel series, Check Your Luggage. And you both have been traveling to different Pride events this year which has been the focus of the Making It With Pride travel series from Out Traveler and equalpride video. Where have you been so far? Do you have any upcoming events in places you’re excited about visiting?  If so, what specifically piques your interest in traveling to these places?

The first season of Making It With Pride has been an incredible collaboration that showcased a few of my festival headlining performances and concerts in Miami, St. Maarten, London, Virginia, and Toronto. I’m hella excited for Season 2!

I just headlined Honolulu’s Pride Festival and it was such a huge honor to be a part of the celebrations. With so many close friends living in Honolulu, it’s become a place that I truly love. I’ve been to a few concerts and shows in Honolulu and let me tell you, the energy and engagement from Honolulu crowds is next level and something that must be experienced in person to fully comprehend. To be on the receiving end of that energy while performing onstage was the stuff of dreams. In terms of upcoming events, I have to keep a tight lip for now, but I’m so excited for what’s next!

How long have you and Barry been together? Has it been easy traveling as a couple? If so, what do you think are the biggest perks of traveling with him?

Barry and I have been together for seven years now. Both of us have a strong passion and natural affinity for travel. Being able to experience the world together and learn so much more about ourselves and the love that we share, ultimately, has created a deeper bond between us. Over the years, it’s been a breeze and pure joy traveling together as a couple as we complement each other so well. It’s amazing to be able to do all the things that we love, use our voices to uplift our respective intersectional communities, all on top of building an incredible life together that marries all of our goals and ambitions so far!

You’ve done some modeling, including walking in runway shows for New York Fashion Week. How would you describe your fashion style? And other than NYC, what city is your favorite place to shop and why?

Yes indeed, I’ve been an active model since the age of 15 and while music is my reason for being, I’ll always be fashion-adjacent. My fashion style has evolved tremendously over the years, but I’ve settled into what I like to call “Understated Chic”. My favorite component within my fashion style, other than shoes, is the invisible element of fragrance. I’m obsessed with fragrances and have built up a pretty badass collection. As human beings, a smell has the capacity to transport us to a very specific time and place in our lives. So for me, the way one smells, scientifically, is more memorable and leaves a much more lasting impression in terms of how we present ourselves. Elevating my fashion aesthetic with a curated fragrance collection has been a complete game-changer for me. 

In terms of shopping, even more than NYC, Paris is my ultimate favorite place to shop. Champs-Élysées, especially the boutique shops, do not disappoint. And don’t get me started on the topic of shopping with views on views!

Ok, we’re going to move into the quick-fire part of the interview. Don’t think too hard but say the first thing that comes to your mind. Let’s start with the places where you’ve lived, which includes your hometown – Miami. It’s known for its turn-up vibe. So, where’s your favorite place to turn up and have fun when visiting Miami? Why?

My favorite place to turn all the way up in Miami is in the Wynwood neighborhood. It has evolved into one of the coolest places on earth!

If you’re heading to the beach in the Miami area, where will people usually find you?

You can find me at the 12th Street Beach on South Beach vibing out with our beautiful LGBTQ+ community and allies. It’s really a whole vibe.

Favorite bar in Miami? Why?

Proyecto Tulum in Wynwood. The ambiance is next level and really feels like you’re in Tulum, but with that 3-0-5 energy!

If you had to book a hotel in Miami for one night, and money wasn’t an issue, where would you stay? Why?

I’m so loyal to The Betsy in South Beach. The property is stunning and it’s in the best location (central South Beach but distant enough for solitude away from the clubs and bars), and the staff, management, and owners have become family to me.

Let’s move to a few questions about your current home, which is New York City! What’s one place in the city that most tourists don’t know about that you’d recommend?

Bushwick. It has a vibe that’s becoming more like Wynwood in Miami, complete with incredible food, bars, clubs, entertainment, and a formidable art scene.

I’m not sure if you’re a Broadway fan or not, but if you had to recommend your favorite play or musical to see on Broadway (or off-Broadway), what would be your top three picks? 

Strange Loop, Hamilton, and MJ The Musical.

You’re going out to have a fun night in the Big Apple. Where do you start your night? Where do you end the night?

I’d start off at the Jimmy in SoHo and end the night with drinks, made by yours truly, at my place for good conversation, 90’s R&B + Pop music, and board games, lol!

What’s your favorite music venue in New York City?

Carnegie Hall will always have a special place in my heart as the top NYC music venue. My first-ever concert experience in NYC was at Carnegie Hall and it was to see one of my ultimate favorite singers, Patti LaBelle. The experience will stick with me forever because one of my mentors, who’s no longer with us, from my alma mater, Cornell University, invited me to join him in seeing what is one of my favorite live performances of all time.

What restaurant do you regularly recommend to family and friends visiting NYC?

There are two restaurants that I always recommend, Nobu New York Fifty Seven in Midtown Manhattan and Tamarind in Tribeca. Besides the exceptional food, I love Japanese and Indian cuisines, and the ambiance and people-watching for both of these spots elevate the entire dining experience.

What’s one place every LGBTQ+ traveler should go when visiting Miami and New York City?

The one place every LGBTQ+ traveler should go to when visiting Miami. Well, it’s a tie between Palace Bar and Twist – both are located in South Beach. Palace Bar’s Drag Brunch absolutely cannot be missed. If you have a chance to go when the legendary Tiffany Fantasia is performing, you’ll be in for a treat. Twist is a must-do for a signature Miami queer night out, complete with awesome cocktails, drag performances, six different dance floors, and go-go entertainment in the back bar.

In NYC, the one place I’d recommend every LGBTQ+ traveler experience, hands down, is the Stonewall Inn. To walk on the very street of the Stonewall riots, in and of itself, is akin to a metaphysical experience for me. Being able to reflect and pay homage to the LGBTQ+ heroes and trailblazers who paved the way and courageously fought for the freedoms we have today feels like a rite of passage for our LGBTQ+ community.

You travel quite a bit. So, what is the one thing you never forget to pack?

The one thing that I always travel with, and everyone eggs me on about it, is my Matcha tea kit. I don’t drink coffee, so one cup of Matcha is an integral part of my daily regimen. I always pack my wooden Japanese whisk, premium matcha powder, my favorite gold-plated straw, creamer, and honey. It’s so funny because I have a designated compartment in my bag for Matcha that I replenish every 3 to 4 weeks. One can find coffee anywhere in the world, but Matcha is so hard to come by. I have no shame bringing my own stash across the globe!

You’re on a long-haul flight or road trip. What recording artist or band is always on your music playlist?

I always like to use that time to discover new music and artists, so I always create a playlist from the latest releases of that particular week.

Do you have any gigs coming up that fans should know about? Are you working on new music?

I have a few upcoming surprises in store that I can’t reveal just yet. But I’m excited to release a few more music videos within the next few months, and new music is on the way soon!

You can follow Teraj’s fabulous career and travels on his website, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube.