In a bold and provocative move, Janelle Monáe, the acclaimed artist known for their electrifying performances and unapologetic authenticity, released their latest single, “Lipstick Lover.” Accompanied by a visually captivating and NSFW music video, Monáe’s newest creation has stirred up a whirlwind of excitement, but not without consequence.
The song, described by British music magazine NME as a “reggae-inspired celebration of queer love and joy,” serves as the introductory track for Monáe’s highly anticipated fourth album, aptly titled “The Age of Pleasure.” In a powerful statement, the singer expressed, “As we enter into The Age Of Pleasure, ‘Lipstick Lover’ is our freeassmothaf**ka anthem inspired by f.a.m. for f.a.m. This is our oasis made with love, rooted in self-acceptance, throbbing in self-discovery, and signed with cherry red kisses from me to you.”
The accompanying video features Monáe amidst a vibrant and liberating queer pool party, surrounded by scantily clad friends. Amidst the carefree atmosphere, an unsuspecting background actor named Emmanuel finds himself at the center of a personal storm. In a fleeting moment, captured on screen, he is seen engaged in a passionate kiss with another man in a shower, inadvertently outing himself to his family.
Overwhelmed by this unexpected turn of events, Emmanuel, a 24-year-old certified personal trainer based in Los Angeles and working in the tech industry, took to Twitter to share his anguish. “My parents (who I’m not even out to yet) just saw my lil cameo in Janelle Monae’s video where I’m kissing a boy,” he wrote. “Y’all…pray for me. It’s about to be a long road ahead.”
Emmanuel revealed that his parents were alerted to his appearance in the video by an anonymous source, which triggered a cascade of challenging conversations. “Parents said a lot. Called me selfish for the most part,” he confided in a message to Queerty. “I haven’t talked to them about it fully. I’m still panicking.”
Despite the potential repercussions, Emmanuel holds no remorse for his involvement in the video. He acknowledges that being a part of this groundbreaking project was a transformative experience, remarking, “Being involved in that video was everything. Working with Janelle was EVERYTHING. I felt so free on set. The vibes were amazing.”
Amidst the familial turmoil, an outpouring of support has flooded Emmanuel’s Twitter feed, with heartfelt messages coming from both strangers and the artist themselves. Monáe personally reached out to Emmanuel, affirming, “I love you. I’m here for you. Always.” Overwhelmed by the love and encouragement he has received, Emmanuel tweeted, “My parents are NOT having it lmao, but I’m kinda gagging at all the love and support I’ve been getting. Appreciate y’all so much.”
Janelle Monáe’s audacious artistic vision has once again ignited dialogue surrounding LGBTQ visibility and acceptance. As society continues to grapple with these conversations, Emmanuel’s journey stands as a poignant reminder of the personal challenges that can arise when the spotlight shines on one’s true self. Through adversity, however, the power of love, support, and artistic expression prevails, fostering a more inclusive and compassionate world.
