Since it’s a marvelously sunny summer Solstice today, how about something that just gives us some summer fun!
Last week, we heard from Michael Stipe of R. E. M. Coming up alongside that band in Atlanta in the early 80s was another queer band, this one with a little harder, weirder edge. The B-52s leaned heavily into the “alternative lifestyle” aesthetic. (We’ll be discussing that term tomorrow.) They’re very influenced by the punk scene, adding a hefty dose of nonsense and ignoring the punk impulse toward earnestness. There may not an ounce of earnestness in their music and presence, but that only compounds their authenticity.
This quintet of weirdos (I use that word with great fondness) found kindred spirits in one another and set about sharing that spirit with the world as clearly and honestly as possible -- a truly rebellious act, considering the political climate of the time. They included 3 gay men and at least 1 bisexual woman. (I have not confirmed a time when one of them spoke publicly about that aspect of her identity; she’s married to a man; I won’t make assumptions.) A band as queer as the day is long.
In 1985 they lost founding member Ricky Wilson to AIDS, and they went on to honor him greatly with more success than ever, and so much more nonsense. In as much as it’s basically impossible to find deep connection in their bizarre lyrics (What’s a rock lobster? I don’t know.), I still find myself feeling a deep connection to the band, to the noise of it, to that proud spirit.
Now, when it comes to summer songs, “Love Shack” may be my ‘party-est’ go-to choice. Like “Bohemian Rhapsody,” say, virtually everyone can sing along to some part of it, and it always lights up a room. It also may be the most transparent song of their hits. It has it’s fair share of nonsense too, but it’s at least literally about going to a place for a party with their friends. “The sign says, ‘Stay away fools!’ ‘Cause love rules at the love shack!”
The music video for this one is great! An incredibly diverse cast of all types of weirdos gathers to party where they can truly present as their most authentic selves. It’s joyful and exuberant and just plain fun. As I write this, I’ve talked myself into a new understanding of this song. What is it we say in our invitation to God’s table? All are welcome. This video is, in its own way, a beautiful representation of the true meaning of communion. And, incidentally, if you look closely, you can spot a very young RuPaul Charles as a dancer! This would be where s/he was first really noticed.
Have fun bopping with this summer jam today! And happy Solstice!
Thank you, Spirit of Music, for vehicles of authenticity, representation, and communion.