But, still, nobody could have foreseen the glorious reign of a young Black artist effortlessly hijacking the charts singing about queer romance in a music video decked out in enough religious imagery to give Republicans an aneurysm. Even modern creatives Troye Sivan, Olly Alexander, Adam Lambert, and Sam Smith, to some extent, have helped chip away at traditional industry standards that restricted the movement and grace of queer male and non-binary artists. Unforgettable acts from Bowie, Freddie Mercury, and George Michael have weathered the storms of speculation around sexuality and preserved their legacies as musical greats. To acknowledge Lil Nas X’s pioneering spirit in the queer pop realm would be amiss without giving a nod to those that paved the way before him. Refusing to submit to industry homophobia or crass tweets, the artist’s musical catalogue, vibrant image, and growing self-confidence have become unmistakably ingrained in his brand.
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While Lil Nas X’s social media persona can seem nothing more than an overdose of left-field Gen Z humour, but it’s a digital space that curates small instances of LGBTQ+ victories.
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If you ask anyone to mention an off-the-cuff landmark LGBTQ+ moment, many of us will mention Ellen Degeneres’ historic TIME cover, George Michael’s Outside music video, or anything from Lady Gaga’s repertoire, but now younger generations have a moment to instinctively latch onto. Now, the chart-topping creative has ushered in a new era of visibility and representation, but, more importantly, one that is accessible. Now, in a new raging era of radical pop, we’re seeing artists like Frank Ocean, CHIKA, Jaden Smith, and Tyler, The Creator define their identity on their own terms, and to see Lil Nas X join them was revolutionary.Īs an artist that has openly battled with identity and admitted it was a secret he was willing to seal away, it’s worth recognising the strength and solidarity it took to do the opposite. At the time, I was grateful for any POC representation that came my way. Iconography and idolisation around fan-favourites learned towards white, cis, hetero women. For me, growing up, the lack of accessible LGBTQ+ artists was glaringly obvious. Supporting the track, Lil Nas X released the highly-anticipated music video which instantly went viral for its religious-inspired visuals, gender-fluid aesthetic, and powerful message of self-acceptance.Īt first glance, onlookers may be eager to dismiss the overblown video packed with CGI and swarming with religious references, but beneath the shock factor, Lil Nas X has pulled off an iconic queer moment that will long be recognised. In the last week, the record-breaking artist has captured the attention of millions online with his instantly recognisable hit single Montero (Call Me By Your Name).
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With the ping of a tweet, the 21-year-old is able to have Twitter up in arms over a meme, an iconic music video, or blood-filled “Satan shoes”.
#LIS LIL NAS X GAY HOW TO#
The singer has already teased new music and signaled that he's evolving from his "Montero" debut-album phase.You may not have noticed, but very few artists know how to use social media and Lil Nas X is one of the very few that get it right. Most of his previous high-profile appearances involved televised awards shows, such as the Grammy Awards, and co-headlining gigs at concerts and festivals. The social media star is no stranger to the stage but had yet to embark on a tour, let alone a solo outing. On Twitter, he captioned the announcement: “all of u better come or i will cry on instagram live.” "I am Lil Nas X, and I present to you my first tour.” Everyone’s allowed - except gay people," he quips, true to his penchant for trolling his haters. The radically queer musician's head-turning red-carpet looks, BET Awards kiss and satanic lap dance all make appearances. “Hello, I am Montero, and I welcome you to my event,” the 23-year-old said in Tuesday's video announcement, which plays like a highlight reel of controversial moments from his nascent career. Reps for Lil Nas X did not immediately respond Tuesday to The Times' requests for comment.
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It's unclear why he chose such venues for his first tour, but much of what the groundbreaking country/trap/rap/pop star does is hard to explain.