*Tay Cheesy, born Taylor Akharume, has emerged as a dynamic force across dance, music, and digital culture. Raised between Mississippi, Nashville, Baton Rouge, Memphis, and Jackson, her style reflects a blend of regional influence and lived experience. Now based in Atlanta, she continues to expand her reach as a choreographer, entertainer, and recording artist.
“Straight out of college, I’ve been working for myself, entertaining non-stop,” she said. “With that, I evolved into the Southern Soul realm.” She describes Southern Soul as “an underground genre that’s very popular in the South,” adding that “people call it cookout music.”
Her transition into that space came with intention and momentum. “I came in there, adding my twist to the line dances, making them more fun and making more people want to do it,” she explained. By 2022, her influence was already growing, and soon after, “the big Boots On The Ground phenomenon came,” she added.
Tay Cheesy credits her consistency and platform for helping amplify the viral moment. “I built my reputation to be known as if I dance to your song, it’s gonna blow,” she said. “So when Boots On The Ground surfaced in TikTok… I was going viral every time I do the dance.”
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Beyond virality, she has also used her platform to address misconceptions about dancers. Reflecting on her background, she said, “I’ve been dancing since I could walk,” emphasizing that her movement has always been rooted in skill. “I wasn’t thinking oh, I’m rolling my hips to look sexual… I’m good at it.”
She also spoke directly on perception and respect. “Everything is all about perception,” she said. “A person proves their respect based on their character, not based on their talent.”
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A major milestone came when she choreographed “Boots On The Ground” with 803Fresh for the BET Awards.
“He helped me by giving me the opportunity to choreograph that show so I can have that on my resume,” she said. Despite the pressure, Tay Cheesy embraced the challenge. “I love being under pressure,” she shared. “If I can do that, I know what I’m capable of doing.”
Elsewhere in our conversation, Tay Cheesy discusses being labeled the “Beyoncé of Southern Soul,” and what’s ahead with new music and projects in 2026. Watch the clip below. You can follow Tay Cheesy on social media: Instagram / YouTube / T
*This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
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