Brian Slade: Get Over You
Already, gay bloggers are comparing Tonéx’s alter ego Brian Slade with Sylvester. But new concept video for “Get Over You” only reveals how very little today’s generation know about pioneering disco divas
Channeling his latest alter ego, Anthony Williams, II (Tonéx) is “coming out” with pride as Brian Slade, an obvious nod to David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust, in his latest concept video for the jumpy disco gem “Get Over You.” The effects are pretty stunning; containing a number of nightlife glimpses from ’70’s disco nightlife and Studio 54 homages. Glimpses of old footage of the now infamous jay-setting style (courtesy of Beyoncé’s “Single Ladies”) and vouging are also interjected. To many, it’s a visual portrayal of the borderline-hedonistic lifestyles of the gay counterculture. And some are just quick and balzy enough to call it a tribute to the disco diva Sylvester, especially since his latest digital mixtape Brilliant Catastrophe offers a re-recording of “You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)”. But the flexing of the straight-hair extensions and the quirky-flirty behavior on our star just feels downright uncomfortable. Imagine Wendy Williams being hijacked by pop gossip blogger B. Scott. Even though, I’ve enjoyed the musical craft and stage mechanics of Sylvester and still consider Step II and the live-recorded Living Proof album important milestones in disco history, there’s a major difference between the two. Sylvester looked ten times better in drag.
J MATTHEW COBB
