I have been a fan of FKA Twigs since the very first time I heard her music. The British singer-songwriter’s unique and instantly recognizable voice immediately drew me in, as did her haunting, sometimes sensual lyrics. When she performed live, there was always an electric atmosphere in the room. You never knew what was going to happen next, which was both exciting and terrifying at the same time. It was almost as if you were at a circus and the performers were strangers who just happened to share your passion for music. While you tried to figure out where you saw each other before, you knew in that very moment that you were kindred spirits and nothing could break apart the connection.

Then came along the most exciting part of my musical journey: meeting and spending some time with FKA Twigs in person. It started with a concert in London, where I was able to get a glimpse of the singer, who was at that time still struggling to break into the U.S. market. I had to settle for a photograph with her instead, which I still have. It was then that I realized how truly unique and wonderful FKA Twigs is, and how blessed I was to have found her music. Ever since then, it has been nothing but good things.

So when I found out that FKA Twigs and Robert Pattinson were to appear together on the big screen for the first and only time, it felt like a dream come true. The two collaborated on the film Rubie’s Wedding, in which they played lovers who had to hide their relationship from their conservative families. While the two actors were able to draw on their real-life romance for the role, it was most apparent when they were onscreen together. Every gesture, every song, and every dance they shared was poetry in motion. It was the most exciting collaboration I had ever had the pleasure of watching, let alone being a part of. And it was certainly the highlight of my musical career so far.

Then came the inevitable backlash. The mere mention of FKA Twigs’ name would bring forth an army of haters who would pour out their insecurities and frustrations in the most vile of ways. At every turn, I felt like I was battling a war. Thankfully, there were some truly good people out there who shared my enthusiasm for FKA Twigs and stood by me. Even my biggest critic, Neil Drumming, tweeted his support and told me that he loved what I was doing and how I was presenting FKA Twigs. It was a beautiful thing to hear, and it gave me the boost of confidence I needed to keep going.

Since then, FKA Twigs’ star has continued to rise. She has released two more critically acclaimed albums and is now a bona fide superstar, with millions of fans across the world. While her music continues to evolve and develop, rooted in R&B and soul but drawing inspiration from everything around her, it remains as unique as the day I first heard it. And just like then, there is always something both shocking and exhilarating about what she does. She continues to amaze and delight me, and I hope she does the same for you, too. I cannot think of a more perfect pop star to celebrate my career.