Drag Queen Spotlight: Keri Oki Talks Singing, Taxes, And Sex In Drag

July 29, 2023
JORDAN JAYRO

Hello and welcome to Drag Queen Spotlight! This is where I share with you a fierce drag artist that I think you need to know about! This week we are getting to know none other than the fabulous Miss Keri Oki! Keri Oki is a super-talented queen from San Diego, by way of Albany, New York! She is the premiere karaoke queen of the world, and I know you’re going to love her! So check out her answers below, and be sure to follow Keri Oki on Instagram!

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How did you get your drag name?

I originally got my name by throwing some names out. Me and my good Judy were sitting and talking about drag names because we were both karaoke hosts (groundbreaking, I know!) and I said “I wish I could make Karaoke my drag name” and she was like “Why don’t you?” And from that point out; it was Keri Oki!

How long have you been doing drag?

I’ve been technically doing drag since 2016, taking baby steps into it when I started in Upstate NY. But drag really started for me in 2020 when I rebranded myself and actually took the time to practice what I love.

When is your birthday? How old are you?

I’m a May baby (A Taur-Ass if you will) I am 27 years of age; or as I like to say 21 plus shipping and handling!

Relationship status?

I am single as a Pringle but taking my time!

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What was your first time in drag like?

The first time I did drag, the theme was past present, and future. And I got present! Doing a very like party animal, but when I tell you I was feeling the fantasy! My best friends and co-workers were there to support me and were like, “HOLY S***, THAT'S NOT HIM!!!”

What made you want to start doing drag?

I always realized I like putting my friends’ dresses and shoes on for $hits and giggles. I sadly did go through a dark depression where I needed something to make myself happy and my friends put me in makeup. Looking like the sexist librarian with Converses and I went to karaoke (again, groundbreaking?) and sang and everyone was cheering!!!! The loudest I’ve ever gotten from karaoke! And I have never stopped since then!

Who inspires your drag (celebrities, other queens, etc.)?

My drag is inspired by strong amazing vocalists: Prince, Patti Labelle, Freddie Mercury, etc. etc.

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Favorite song/artist to lip sync to?

I have so many songs! But if I had to narrow it down to my favorite song to lip sync or sing live, my favorite performance was when I sang “Maybe This Time” from Cabaret the musical! But if I had to lip-sync it would be “I Just Got Paid” by Sigala.

Have you ever hooked up in drag?

I’ve only done it once, and Jesus we banged so hard we had to exchange insurance information after that! Although I looked like a melting art piece after that session.

What’s your favorite thing about drag?

I think my favorite thing is getting to inspire people from being a goofball to being this amazing vocalist! It really just shows you can do anything you want!

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What are your hobbies outside of drag?

Outside of drag, I know what you’re thinking… karaoke? And you probably guessed right. I love new experiences and doing new things. I tend to go to Dave & Busters with my friends, watch movies, going hiking, I love swimming. But also trying something new! One of my favorite experiences was going axe-throwing!

What’s the craziest thing you’ve witnessed in a dressing room?

Crazy? I think it was when me and my good sister Hunky Dori were in our changing room and some random TV show came on with a harmonica player. She literally was gagged and started dancing. While I was laughing my ass off. I’m not too sure what was going on but I was living!

Biggest pet peeve about working with other drag queens?

So I’m not going to lie, I don’t like someone being late. I get it, it happens from time to time. But damn if it happens often it’s really frustrating!!!

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Biggest pet peeve about audiences in nightclubs?

Oh, honey… when someone is on their phone while I’m performing, like if they are texting. I’ll be the first one to be tapping on their phone because it’s super disrespectful to us performers.

Any advice for someone wanting to start doing drag?

Two things! Number 1 is… PAY YOUR TAXES!!!! For real… do you know how many tax breaks you get? Holy moly! And the second thing is… your drag is your drag! How do you perceive your art? Do you do pageants? Are you a performer? Are you alternative? Do you do camp? My best advice is that drag is your art! Take it in your hands and see how you can continue to elevate your drag! It’s not always going to be having the most expensive outfit or wig! But it’s how you continue to use it and elevate it to higher and higher platforms.

I sing to the low key, up to the High key, my name is Keri Oki and this Bitch stays on key!