Tina Knowles, in her memoir 'Matriarch', reflects on her early career as a seamstress, which began with making outfits for drag queens alongside her nephew, Johnny. Beyoncé honors Johnny in her music, particularly referencing him during her Renaissance tour. Tina describes their experiences at the Kon Tiki club, where Johnny thrived within the drag queen community, and their collaborative efforts in hair and makeup. She expresses deep admiration for Johnny's talent and the transformative power of their work together, alongside poignant memories as his protector in the vibrant gay scene of Galveston.
When he was 18, Johnny started going to a club called the Kon Tiki. He took me to a drag show there, both of our first times, and I was all in.
I started helping Johnny do hair and makeup. More often than not, I would look at one of his clients and think, I could do this really good.
Youâve made them look extraordinary but somehow also brought out their true essence.
I was honored to be Johnny's protector, to give him the flower he tucked behind his ear.
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