SWCEO Interviews Zuri Love
Blog Post Written By: MelRose Michaels
MelRose Michaels sat down with Zuri Love in a recent Twitter Space to discuss their journey in the industry. In the interview, they touched on XBIZ Miami tea, Imposter Syndrome, the importance of inclusivity, advice for new creators, and much more.
Zuri Love is a non-binary adult content creator and professional girlfriend known for their goth, curvy aesthetic. They are active on platforms like OnlyFans and Twitter, connecting with their audience and collaborating with other creators. Zuri Love emphasizes the importance of building a professional online presence and staying engaged with fans through authenticity.
MelRose Michaels: Zuri, can you describe your journey into adult content creation and explain what influenced your work?
Zuri Love: I started creating content while being an escort. I hopped on OnlyFans right when it started. Many of my influences came from people I saw on Twitter, like Anna Fox, Avery Jane, and Connie Perignon. I've always had the goth curvy aesthetic, and I'm a big fan of "Nightmare Before Christmas," despite my issues with Tim Burton. The goth aesthetic, makeup, and being a punk who rebels against the powers that be are all reflected in my content and tweets.
MelRose Michaels: I've definitely come across some of your tweets that give off that rebel vibe. What do you think is the reason you carry this rebel essence?
Zuri Love: It's probably because I was born into the world violently. I'm adopted, and my existence as a Black person is rebellious because people don't want us to exist. I was raised by a single mother who kicked ass my entire life, trying to uplift me so I wouldn't live the life she did. I'm a radicalized, rebellious person who believes in a world where everyone can live in peace and have access to basic needs without being arrested for protesting important issues.
MelRose Michaels: I love that. I think many in our community have had to overcome a lot, especially being in marginalized communities. How did you develop your unique aesthetic and brand?
Zuri Love: It comes from who I am. Zuri Love is both a persona and a reflection of myself. My aesthetic is inspired by things I grew up watching, like "Scooby-Doo," "The Hex Girls," "Nightmare Before Christmas," "Coraline," Vincent Price, and old monster movies. I'm very into horror and the macabre. A lot of it also stems from my mom and grandma, who were big fans of Halloween. I bring that into my content because I'm a spooky king.
MelRose Michaels: I love it. My birthday is on Halloween, so I grew up with "Nightmare Before Christmas" as our big Christmas movie. It's great that your persona overlaps with your real self. I feel similarly with Melrose, the brand. How do you choose your collaborations?
Zuri Love: I go by gut feelings, vibes, and whether I think it's going to sell. I mostly like people unless I've heard bad things about them. It's about vibes and personality. Marketability does play a part because not everyone will want me in their videos, and that's okay. So far, I've had great experiences and collaborations.
MelRose Michaels: What was your most memorable collaboration?
Zuri Love: My first shoot with CrashPad was one of my most memorable because they're my favorite queer porn company. Another memorable shoot was with Collective Corruption, where I worked with Mickey Mod. They're an amazing performer, and the company is great.
MelRose Michaels: What type of content are you hoping to make this year?
Zuri Love: I really want to do something cowboy-themed. I'm very into Westerns and want to make it authentic to California, my home. I also want to do something based on the song "Love Machine," where I would be an android. I have the whole outfit planned in my head.
MelRose Michaels: Those ideas sound amazing. Let's talk about safety measures in adult work. How do you ensure all parties involved are comfortable and respected during collaborations?
Zuri Love: Take a deep breath and be honest. Conversations are important for stating boundaries and comfort levels. I'm very direct and ask a lot of questions. If I sense an issue, I address it immediately. Being honest and open makes things easier and ensures trust.
MelRose Michaels: That's excellent advice. What about the business side of things? How do you manage your finances, documents, and legal considerations?
Zuri Love: I focus on keeping my documents in check and having physical copies. The internet can be unreliable, so having backups is crucial. I also have journals and folders to keep everything organized, especially after moving and things getting scattered.
MelRose Michaels: With the current challenges in our industry, how do you cope with mental health struggles?
Zuri Love: My mental health has been interesting, especially after taking care of my grandma, who recently passed away. It took a toll on me, balancing work and family responsibilities. Having a support system and reaching out when you need assistance is important. Isolation is not the way to go, especially in this industry where we are already marginalized.
MelRose Michaels: I'm sorry for your loss. It's hard to find support in our work. Vulnerability is tough, especially on the internet. But it's important to speak up and seek help. What do you find most rewarding about your work?
Zuri Love: Knowing that I make people happy. I love my job and take pride in it. I've done many different things in my life, but this job brings me joy because I can positively impact people's lives.
MelRose Michaels: Do you ever feel imposter syndrome, and how do you cope with it?
Zuri Love: Yes, I feel imposter syndrome a lot. When I do, I scroll through my accomplishments and remind myself of the things I've achieved. Asking friends for support and validation also helps. It's important to remember that we are all human and have flaws.
MelRose Michaels: That's a great strategy. Reflecting on achievements can be really helpful. I know we were both at XBIZ Miami recently. How was your experience at the conference?
Zuri Love: It was okay, but there were some issues, like the hot and crowded badge pickup room. The security could have been better, as random men without wristbands were getting in and harassing creators. Despite these challenges, I had fun connecting with friends and colleagues.
MelRose Michaels: Conferences can be valuable for networking and meeting other creators. Do you have any advice for creators considering a career in adult content?
Zuri Love: Consistency is key. Make sure this is what you want to do because the internet is forever. Have a support system and be prepared for the challenges. Also, make a lot of content and treat it as digital assets that will bring you residual income.
MelRose Michaels: Wonderful. Thank you so much, Zuri. This was an awesome conversation; I know everyone listening greatly benefited from it.
Some parts of the above interview have been condensed or edited for clarity. Listen to the entire Twitter space for the full interview, which includes live audience participation and questions.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in the interview are those of the guest speaker and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of SexWorkCEO or MelRose Michaels. Anything said or written is of their opinion and is not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone else.
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