As most enthusiasts applauded Lil Nas X for his creativity and uniqueness, others have been sent into a (what it seems like) satanic panic over his latest music video, MONTERO (Call Me By Your Name). Trending the charts, Lil Nas X slides down a pole to hell and gives Satan a lap dance before casually snapping the devil’s neck and taking control of the underworld. Although this isn’t most individuals’ ideal music video such as two young people sharing popcorn together on a Ferris wheel and singing about their ever-lasting love for one another, MONTERO has a great meaning behind it that I think many overlook.
Recently, the music video has received a plethora of criticism from politicians, conservative commentators, and even some folks who really should know better have taken to social media in regards to its supposedly “destructive imagery.” For example, South Dakota Governor, Kristi Noem, suggested that Lil Nas X was endangering the “God-given eternal soul[s]” of innocent American children and exclaiming that he is worshiping the devil in the video.
What I keep circling back to as I read more criticism, is the fact that those most upset over the music video are those who were raised to think that if you play Elvis Presley or Led Zepplin backward that it will “summon the devil”. As those same people grew up disregarding their parent’s notions, it is a bit hypocritical to see them act on those same ideals.
Overall, I truly believe that Lil Nas X in fact is not “worshipping the devil” in this video, for I simply think that he is providing healing support to those that struggle with the same hurt he has in the past. This video speaks volumes for millions of queer individuals because they are constantly being told they cannot be themselves because it is “against God’s wishes.” In turn, Lil Nas X decided enough was enough and it was time to dismantle this cycle of shame for queer individuals. Last, while Lil Nas X’s behavior in the video is a bit unusual, I still stand by it knowing that it rightfully deserves proper credit for its musical and artistic mastery. Rate 9/10.