By Casey Rafter
Lizz Shine is a singer-songwriter based in Sacramento who wants to “help people empathically,” she says. “The way that I do that is through my music.” Shine describes her songs as often being about her mental health journey, and her transition and life as a trans woman. She also considers herself an activist as an extension of her mental health work, and specifically for the trans community.
Shine, who can often be found performing at The Silver Lining in downtown, is currently in the process of recording two albums. Her most recent single, “Shine,” was released shortly after the November presidential election, which felt heavy, she says, but also like she was sharing messages that resonated with listeners.
Shine recently met up with podcast co-host Casey Rafter for a conversation about being both a musician and an activist. Listen to their conversation on our podcast, “Creativity in the Capitol,” available on streaming platforms.
This story is part of the Solving Sacramento journalism collaborative. This story was funded by the City of Sacramento’s Arts and Creative Economy Journalism Grant to Solving Sacramento. Following our journalism code of ethics, the city had no editorial influence over this story. Our partners include California Groundbreakers, Capital Public Radio, Outword, Russian America Media, Sacramento Business Journal, Sacramento News & Review, Sacramento Observer and Univision 19. Sign up for our “Sac Art Pulse” newsletter here.