Icon Art Awards 2013 - LGBT IQA & Comedy

As I write these lines it is 22:45 in Germany on December 31st. And we I am a day late in giving you this part of the Icon Art Awards. But before the new Year rings in and I will mess up and write 2013 instead of 2014, I will give you my honorees in the LGBT IQA category and in the category of comedy. But lets stop the talking and lets start the shading and crowning.

LGBT IQA Person of the Year– All the Celebrities that came out 2013

Besides the fact that with this whole new bunch of baby gays and hot new jocks to love and luster after the point that they now officially jumped the river and joined that other team, aka. our team, has actually done very much and nothing at all. First things first it should not be that big of a deal that someone comes out, as it is 2013 and acceptance should be the norm. Since it still is not makes the entire coming outs a big deal. We finally have some outed LGBT professional athletes, more outed LGBT actors and more outed celebs at all that are able to send one clear message to all the LGBT IQA youth out there in fear or suffering: No matter what you identity regarding sex, gender or desire is, you can make it in any branch of life. All that really matters are your abilities. And that is why it was kind of a biggie after all.

Best LGBT Project of 2013 – “Mundpropaganda” by German male fashion magazine GQ

GQ Germany has brought together some pretty famous straight male German celebrities from all branches of life, that did one thing in front of the camera: they kissed. And that kiss was all intentional as its should show that kissing men, kissing straight men, is something to be accepted, something normal and something that actually is nothing of great importance as it is normal. The campaign gained huge momentum and the reaction was split as it usually is. But one thing is clear as we saw homophobe commenting everywhere: That there is a need for campaigns such as this one.

Coming Out Of 2013 – Ben Wishaw

I am a big fan of Ben as an actor and his last very prominent role as Q in the last Bond movie “Skyfall” gave my loiiife, as well as his character play in the epic “Cloud Atlas”. Constantly being questioned about his sexuality Wishaw always responded that is actually never is of importance for his job, and he does not understand the fuzz about his person, as his acting in itself should be so much more of importance. His by the way statement of being in a civil partnership with Mark Brashaw sealed the awesome deal for me.

Queerest Thing 2013 – Marco Marco Fashion Show

This years Marco Marco Spring Summer show for 2014 was just amazing! And why? The great music, the stunning clothes and the little fact that except for our honoree as Transgender Person of 2013, and some gorgeous and probably gay male models the whole collection was presented by drag queens. And we had many of our favorites in there such as: Shangela, Willam, Detox, Raja, Yara Sofia, Manila Luzon, Vicky Vox, Courtney Act and many many more.

Transgender Person of the Year – Carmen Carrera

After being a contestant on RuPauls Drag race season 3 Carmen had made a bold decision that was to come out as transgendered and go all the way to become Carmen anatomically. And boy, she has been a true, beautiful and talented in inspiration and kind voice for the trans community since then. She as well was petitioned to become Victorias Secrets first transgender model ever. Move over Candis, Bar and whoever, Carmen is here with a body for sin and a story of heaven!

Biggest Homophobe of 2013 – Vladimir Putin

This one is actually pretty obvious, as Vladimir Putin is not known to be a man that is a friend of any kind of diversity that differs from the heterosexual norm that works within the frames given by him.  He is a person that has more faces than a drag queen, is known to be the dictator of Russia, even though technically the country is a democracy, and as well known to be a possible homophobe. He never actually said that he was but his general actions speak words.

LGBT Un-friendliest Country – Russia

Okay this one is as well no real surprise. Russia re-enforced a law that prohibits propaganda of not considered stereotypical lifestyles. Meaning: everything that is linked to the LGBT IQA community, be it direct or indirect, is forbidden and the police are allowed to interact. Further the law has made it possible for Russian homophobes to attack LGBT IQA members in public, and continue to spread their hateful agenda. Be it. There is so much more that the country is a human rights catastrophe.

Best Comedy Video 2013 – Jimmy Kimmel, Channing Tatum, Jamie Fox and Miley

Cyrus in “Channing All Over Your Tatum”

There is something that really makes this video the hit it is as it feature Channing Tatum who had more than one cameo appearance I my head, and definitely starred in the main role many times. As well it has a funny double entendre joke with a sexual innuendo, Sarah Silverman, Jimmy Kimmel, Jamie Fox and our ratchet ass twerk kween Miley Cyrus. I wanna channing all over that tatum. Definitely, wouldn’t you too?

           

Best Parody 2013 – “BlurredBynes” by DWV

Blurred Lines might be the song of 2013 that should have been forbidden but our favorite drag queen triple and their drag-tastic humor can make anything happen and anything a thing. This funny parody of Blurred Lines makes fun of Amanda Bynes in all matters possible. Besides the three drag divas being tremendously ah-mazing and gorgeous and talented they really push the right buttons and make the right things happen so that the parody is a brilliant take on pop culture and the actual momentum. Not to forget the hash tags. #SRSLYSYRIA

Best Comedian/Comedienne – Kathy Griffin

Oh my dear. Kathy really has rocked this year as she recorded three comedy specials and has as well received the honor of having the most televised standup specials of any comedienne or comedian. And with her just recently released one, simply called “Record Breaker”, its up to a number of 20 stand up specials all recorded from 2004 on, except for her first two ones. That makes Kathy release about 2 specials a year. Kathy is just awesome, funny, fierce and a great LGBT IQA supporter.

Icon Art Awards 2013 - Art & Fashion

Yesterday you had the chance to read all about the winners and shaded peepz from movies and TV, and two days ago I worked my way through the music biz of 2013. Today I will give you the top and flops in 2013 art as well as the what to wear and what not in 2013 fashion. 

Artist of the Year (Female) – Marina Abramovic

In 2010 Marina Abramovic had her biggest blast yet as she staged her three months retro-perspective at the NYC MOMA and made the documentary, titled just like the three month long performance piece of hers, called “The Artist is Present”. As this year hit she started collecting funds to build the Abramovic Institute that is labeled as a meeting place to communicate and experience and work on performing arts. Definitely the female artist of 2013 as she still keeps it clear to her style and pushed boundaries of what is performance art. 

Artist of the Year (Male) – Jeff Koons

As the best-paid artist ever Jeff Koons never has a bad year, and his kitsch pop culture ironic art never a bad season. But this year he catapulted himself into the god league of pop artists as he created a stunning statue for Lady Gaga’s “ARTPOP” album cover. Very Warhol, very Gaga but 100% Koons and 100% brilliant. And outstanding combination of performance and sculpture that he presented.

Best Performance Art 2013 –  “The Abramovic Method” aka. Cleaning The House by “Marina Abramovic”

“The Abramovic Method” is a series of body experiences that focuses on using the sins to get their perception back into our minds and to break a bridge between the individual and the nature. As part of “Cleaning the House” workshop by Marina its focuses on the experience as unpolluted by outer influences such as language and company, even clothing.

Best Sculpture 2013 – “Couple Under An Umbrella” by Ron Mueck

Rom Mueck is to be assorted to the class of hyperrealists, as his sculptures look extremely real. On pictures you definitely mistake them for real people. As one of his latest works “Couple Under An Umbrella” depicts an elder couple in swimming clothes. An everyday scene that gains momentum as the title does not make use of the age of its “protagonists”, yet age is explained as a topic with this bold decision. (Well, at least for me.)  As well we can definitely experience some sort of privacy, as the figures look so real that we get the idea of a candid moment. Have a look for yourself!

Best Painting 2013 – “Antiquity 3” by Jeff Koons

This might already be super boring, but this multi-layered painting by Jeff Koons just caught me in its charm. We see a Bettie Paige model riding a fake dolphin while holding a fake monkey, in the back we see Greek statues, a sunset and something is drawn over it. Love it. For me it represents the Meta nature of pop culture work as it proves to be self-referencing all the time.

Best Dressed Male 2013 – Josh Hutcherson

He might not be the hunkiest hunk of them all, but he definitely is the prettiest and best dressed of them all! And yes, I have to say that his fashion choices, for me, represent a modern day men that knows to wear something else then just a boring suit and tie. He as well proved to have a hand for his hair as it always looks good, and what is better then that?

Worst Dressed Male 2013 – LMFAO (Both of them)

Red Foo and I don’t even know what his name is both just look horrible. The style is not even ironic or meant to look different. Its just plain dumb stuff that is supposed to be col and edgy, but it just looks ridiculously stupid, immature and hilarious (But not in the good way!)

Best Dressed Female 2013 – Lady Gaga

I mean, that was pretty obvious, was it? Best dressed is not only about how sexually attractive or conventionally beautiful someone looks with me. Because that is boring. Lady Gaga snatches the title here because she once more used fashion to give statements, add to performances and even to fly. Remember “VOLANTIS”, the flying dress? Because that is fashion, and not just to look as good as Beyoncé after make up and hair in another normal dress. (Sorry Bey. Your beautiful, but with me that is way not enough!)

Worst Dressed Female 2013 – Nicki Minaj

Could someone please tell her to stop high high high highlighting her big butt? I like a gorgeous butt, but hers is just ridiculous and that constant booty boost does not really do it. And that K-Mart whatever collection of skin tight, ill patterned, sweatpants and hoodies she calls a fashion collection does not make it better. Just a sell out, trying to label it as fashionable. Sorry, but not with me.

Designer of the Year – Karl Lagerfeld

           

Say what you want about Karl, he has stupid sides, but his Designs are freaking flawless. He is freaking crazy and makes a crazy amount of work happen and still makes it to include the newest trends and ideas into his several collections a year. Karl has always been a mystery and will forever remain a bit of a mystery, as he is mysterious in his thinking patter, work pattern and his behavior.

Label of the Year – Versace

A few years ago Versace was on the edge of going totally broke, but with Donatella taking over all possible she turned the wheel around and re-oriented Versace back to its origins that were truly Gianni Versace. With the “new” Versace DNA the label now spits out highlight after highlight of high end fashion as it manifests its status as bold and beautiful Italian but strong, fierce and aggressively dangerous like the labels mythological figure: Medusa.

WTF Fashion Moment of the Year – Miley Cyrus

I am still shocked at how good and bad Miss Cyrus is able to dress at some times. We get classic elegant chick, sexy salty dominatrix and high fashion concept looks, as while we also get cheap turnpike whore, gone wrong stripper and tweaking teddy with latex. Definitely in need of a different stylist once but a head turner in possibilities open. If this WTF honor is about the good or the bad is lastly up to you folks! 

Icon Art Awards 2013 - Movies and TV

After yesterday has been the lorry giving and shade throwing in the category of music and music videos, it today is time to give you the winners and "winners" in the category of movies and TV. So lets have at it and let the shading/crowning begin!

Movie of the Year – “Catching Fire” & “The Great Gatsby”

Oh that one was hard as well, and as you see I could not really decide! So, “Catching Fire” deserves it to win this one since it was highly anticipated and still was better then the high expectations. It was an emotional ride that showed us in detailed perfection the perversion and cruelty of the killing efficiency of the world of Panem. “The Great Gatsby” on the other hand caught us with a marvelous cast of actors, a big costume department and the magic of a story that makes American students cry in boredom. Both movies are absolute must haves and like no others they defined 2013.

TV Series of the Year – “True Blood”

Oh yeah! That has been a great, not to use the word amazing, year for “True Blood” as season six of the HBO power series sweeped all over our screens with liters of human, vampire, and fairy blood, tons of vampire fangs, crushed bottles of “TruBlood”, Warlow aka. Ben and Pamela Swynford de Beaufort hugging Sookie. (High on Billith-God blood. Otherwise I am not sure if Pam would ever hug someone at all, especially Sookie. The only exception might be her maker: Eric.) Sounds fucked up, twisted, filled and complicated? Yes it was! And I loved every second of it! True Blood will return in the summer of 2014 for its seventh, but sadly, last season on HBO. Definitely my TV highlight of 2013.

Worst Movie of 2013 – “Fast and the Furious 6”

To be said in advance: I am very sorry for the death of Paul Walker, and I do respect and understand mourning fans, but the truth is that the “Fast and the Furious” series is really a simple, not very demanding, action filled car movie. It’s all about velocity, chicks, the bond of friendship and girls, girls, girls. Nothing more. (But nothing less.) I am not a fan of it since I find that the sixth installment really was only one thing: repetitive and generic.

Worst TV Series of 2013 – “Duck Dynasty”

I have never seen it, and I don`t want to generically shade one of the people appearing in it, but what the family father said, that regarded gays as sinners and declared gay marriage as the gateways to things like sodomy and the falling apart of society, really sets the whole thing in a very bad luck for me. Sorry, but Duck Dynasty really has to be named the worst TV series ever in 2013. (Otherwise the pull would have been between “Keeping up with the Kardashians” and “ The Jersey Shore” / “The Geordy Shore”.)

Best Director 2013 – Francis Lawrence

There is something in the work of Francis Lawrence that makes him the perfect director for everything that has a dystopian, a catastrophic or a nihilist theme to it. He possesses the ability to make everything look dark and feel threatening. His main effort this year was the “Catching Fire” movie where he did a very good job.

Actress of the Year – Jennifer Lawrence

           

There are many reasons to fall in love with Jennifer Lawrence as she not only is a stunningly good and mesmerizing actress but as well has that certain charm and mentality to her personality that immediately draws you to like her. And what better then an actress who jokes all the time, tells funny stories about her life, admits that sport and staying thin is hard work that sucks and accepts an Oscar in a long white Dior gown that lets her fall and creates the most perfect and eloquent fall ever?

Actor of the Year – Alexander Skarsgard

Not only has Alexander Skarsgard ever made me dream about him in “True Blood” but also does he have that easy going character, is very natural, charming and funny. He might be this year’s male version of Jennifer Lawrence. As well he is very free and giving concerning nudity, as all the world knows how his downtown look thanks to “True Blood” (You still can hear the gays fapping!).

Most Overrated Actor 2013– Hugh Jackman & Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson

Hugh Jackman just sucks at this point. Seriously. After the felt 7^th Wolverine sequel / prequel and his “Le Miserable” performance and his overall “girls love him cause he is such a hunk” I got extremely bored. Too much media exposure. Next please! Which brings us to the so called “actor” Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. Meanwhile he just consists of muscle and looks horrible, nearly as horrible as his acting in all generic action movies he is in. Same deal as with Hugh Jackman: too much media exposure. I am bored of hid face!

Most Overrated Actress 2013 – Kate Winslet

She might be a good actress but if I have to see her face once more in any goddamn silly gossip magazine of movie I will barf on the paper or the TV screen/cinema screen. She just is annoying and overrated. That’s it. Oh yes, what else is a no go is that she thinks she is Meryl Streep, but she clearly is not… not even in her dreams will she ever be Meryl. 

Icon Art Awards 2013 - Music and Music Videos

As 2013 only has a few more days to go, we are all still in some sort of a food coma from the christmas feast, new years eve is coming nearer and nearer (And most of us still don`t have any idea what to do on this eve!) one thing is as well left to do for 2013: looking back and crowning what has been good, and shading what is to be shaded!

Oh and friends believe me, there is plenty of lorries to give and shade to spill! Today we will start off the series with the category of music and music videos, as it is the largest as well. Tomorrow, on the 28th you will get the categories of Movies and TV, on the 29th you will get Art and Fashion  and on the 30th I will give you the honorees and "honorees" of the LGBT IQA category! So lets start the feast! Shall we?

The Sound of 2013 – “We Can’t Stop” & “Wrecking Ball” by Miley Cyrus

No one, literally no one could escape the hype that was “We Cant Stop” and “Wrecking Ball” in 2013. You can discuss whether they are good pop songs but not to be doubted they dominated airplay, the download charts and our playlists. And besides that the music videos for both songs, which have proven to be provocative enough, have certainly added to the buzz surrounding Miley’s album “BANGERZ”. So the sound of 2013 is definitely made by, having “tongue-stick-out-itis”, Miley Cyrus.

Best Song With a Message 2013 – “Hard Out Here” by Lily Allen & “Same Love” by Macklemore, Ryan Lewis and Mary J. Lambert

As 2013 has seen so many negatives it was so refreshing to hear two songs that clearly were aiming for the different side of the pond: protest, waking us up and giving a socially relevant message. A clear decision was not easy to make so the award goes out to two songs. Macklemore, Ryan Lewis and Mart Lambert definitely raised awareness for a topic close to many LGBT IQA members: same sex marriage and the acceptance of love. On the other hand Lily Allen and her ironically twisted come back single “Hard Out Here” gave us feminism behind a huge slam of irony and criticism. Touché douchebags and applause to our women!

Best Pop Song 2013 – “Artpop” by Lady Gaga

Long have we been waiting for Lady Gaga to release some new music and when “ARTPOP” finally came out I immediately fell in love with the title track as it depicts the rawness of a heartfelt track, the mystical lyrics of a hymn, the electronic beats of a modern song, the aura of a favorite track and the overall perfection of a hit song.

Best Hip Hop Song 2013 – “Change Your Life” by Iggy Azalea

Iggy has been a newcomer in the scene for a while but instead of ranting on Twitter and everywhere else like Azealia Banks, Iggy focuses of music and her artistry and releases stuff like “Change Your Life” that really is great music. Definitely a great hip-hop track and one of the best numbers of the year.

Best Rock Song 2013 – “Aviation High” by Semi Precious Weapons

Rock has always been a side thing for me since I am not that much into real heavy rock music. But Semi Precious Weapons, with their glam rock style of music, have really hit the nail with their song “Aviation High” this year. A great rock song that features slow elements, great rock star lyrics and that glam rock identity that they have presented to us on their first record. They might have changed their style a little but still are my favorite rock band.

Song of Effort 2013 – “Walking On Air” by Katy Perry

You know that I have not been a huge fan of Katy Perry’s album Prism but a few songs on there are good and “Walking On Air” has really been a good musical addition to 2013. So it had to be on this list and, even though its not one of the best records, there has been a huge effort invested into this song. So give it a listen.

Best Pop Album 2013 – “ARTPOP” by Lady Gaga

“ARTPOP” was promised to be a reinvention of what we know of Lady Gaga’s music and persona. All though it might not be as revolutionary as she intended it to be it definitely shows a growth of her as an artist and musician. The album is less commercial, more experimental, less mainstream and very versatile in its sounds and the genres it crosses (Even if overall it is to be labeled as electronic dance music and synth pop.). “ARTPOP” came along with an app and proved itself to be a “reverse warholian” experience as puts the art onto the soup can and not the soup can into art, as Warhol once did.

Best Hip Hop Album 2013 – “Matangi” by M.I.A.

M.I.A. really made an effort on this album that is not matched by any other artist as she really showed that hip-hop and rap music is so much more then what we are used to. This album impressively shows the fusion between modern music and electronic influences with the sounds and ideas of oriental music. Besides her lyrical genius we get whet we were promised: good hip-hop.

Best Rock Album 2013 – “Modern Vampires of the City” by Vampire Weekend

“Modern Vampires Of The City” definitely is not one of the “lalala-sing-along-feel good” albums. It is more of well executed and produced big city music with a modest touch of melancholy, apathy and despair. But not in a soul sucking manner but much more a grown up version of fears and desires in the surrounding of the hub called mega city. Imagine German big city poetry meets rock band philosophers.

Album of Efforts 2013-  “Trouble” by Natalia Kills

This one is definitely a great album and had chances to snatch the title for best pop album. But it has not been THE best pop album, but one of the best pop records. So lets give it the honor and say that “Trouble” is one of the albums that keeps the promise that it title give. Really an anthem for trouble makes, misunderstood people, problem kids and creative minds.

Male Artist of the Year – David Bowie

Ziggy Stardust might be dead for a while already but David Bowie has come back once more to bless rock music with his talent and with his energy, charisma and ideas. His latest effort, the album “The Next Day”, really is what good rock music is about and David has proven that he still is able to turn it out like hell!

Female Artist of the Year – P!nk

P!nk has always been a strong and independent woman, she struts her stuff musical wise and acrobatic wise as well as a PETA activist, mother, feminist, gay and lesbian icon and idol for her fans. Her music and performance certainly have raised the bar on what to expect from a great performer and original creator and musician. And even better: P!nk does not take herself too seriously.

Best Newcomer Male – Steve Grand

Steve Grand is an absolute newcomer and what makes him extra special is not his body of a hunk, his amazing voice and his gorgeous face, cause many others share these qualities, but more the fact that he is the first openly gay and proud country musician that features same sex desires, love and struggles in his songs. And besides that he really is hot and has a gorgeous voice.

Best Newcomer Female– Sky Ferreira

Sky is not a real newcomer in the classic sense but she is in the sense that her debut album was just released this year, and never before has melancholy sounded any more beautiful. But not in the Lana Del Rey pop America idea but rather in a rock, alternative way with a twist of rebellion and double entendres towards anything.

Best Newcomer Group or Duo – Icona Pop

Just when you thought that David Guetta and Will.I.Am had ruined everything that was electronic music these two girls made their jump onto the scene and proved that good electronic music does (A) not have to be generic and (B) can have some smart lyrics. And their anthem “I Love It” made sure we all had a song to dance, sing and freak out along in the club as we screamed stuff like “I am a 90´s bitch!”, which practically counts for myself so “I don´t care, I love it!”

Comeback of the Year - Cher with “Closer To The Truth”

Lord! She had us gagging! (But that wig at her “The Voice” performance was awful! Sorry Cher!) And we were having it when “Woman’s World” graced our ears. And when the album finally came out it was pure heaven. She gave us 50 Shades of Cher that brought us closer to the truth of good music as she might not dominate but not gives a fuck on chart positions. The album clearly shows that she is the head bitch in charge and gave us Cher at her “cher-est”.

Best Music Video 2013 – “Applause” by Lady Gaga

Well, well, well. That one was pretty obvious. All though not as legendary as her “Bad Romance” video (And lets be honest here: Gaga has set the level so unbe-weav-ably high with this video that she made it hard to surpass herself!) Applause is easily the best video of the year as it features gaga-esque dancing; fashion and hurricane of references that pop culture obsessed people can fight about. Long story short: she pissed on that competition, and they applauded. Naturally.

WTF Music Video 2013 – “Candy Yum Yum” by Kevin Mikal

There is that certain moment when you ask yourself weather you watch porn or music videos, and this one definitely had me thinking what I was watching. It turned out to be a music video with gay men dancing as if they were female strippers and I thought: “Well females have to dance like that in all the videos, lets put it under equality and gay body desire!”, but judge for yourself!

WTF Music Moment 2013 – Beyoncé surprise releases “BEYONCE”

Lets put it the following: When Beyoncé dropped her album without any promo on I-Tunes and PISSED OFF, PEED ON and SHADED the competition, broke the internet and set all the gays on fire she ensured that from that day on album releases will be measured in “Beyoncé’s”. Bow down bitches!

Most Annoying Song 2013 – “Gentleman” by Psy

I was most annoyed by “Gangam Style” last year and “Gentleman” did not really better my opinion about Psy. All though I will give it to him that he knows how to make something catchy I just dislike the song due to its generic character, stupidity and simplicity. Sorry, but ride on, cause aint no place for you here!

Should Be Forbidden Song 2013 – “Blurred Lines” by Robin Thicke

Have you really listened to the lyrics? Have you seen the video? Have you seen the uncensored video? I mean: really? If that is what 2013 and feminism looks like then lord, I don`t want to be living on this goddamn planet anymore! Even though the sound of it is somehow good the lyrics and the overall are so wrong. Because that is misogyny, stupidity and exploitation, and nothing else.

Most Overplayed Song 2013 – “Best Song Ever” by One Direction

God love these for or five, or whatever number they are, British teen lads with millions of fan-girls and flaming gay fan boys but lord please the song has been played more then Kim Kardashians vagina. I mean there is a limit!

Most Overrated Male Artist of 2013 – Justin Timberlake

Never really fell in love with him, his image or his music. So his comeback might be amazing for others but I was sitting back and yawned when he performed that VMA number (That was way too long!). As well: The “20/20 Experience” is not as good as people proclaim it. If you listen closely you hear 2008 in it, only a bit better polished this time. Aint nobody got time for dat!

Most Overrated Female Artist 2013 – Taylor Swift

Its not really a surprise that I put the cunt of country on here, is it? Cause when I see that woman`s face all I can think about is how much money I could have made with writing stuff about people I have broken up with…. oh, that are not that many. Well that maybe means I am not such a whore like she is. No seriously…… she probably is a hooker… uhm I meant a nice girl that makes innocent c(o)untry music.

Lana Del Rey And The Essence - Tropico And To Be Born, To Die American

Lana Del Rey has finally come up again in the media landscape after she has been in hiding for several months, except for here and there announcing the release of "Tropico" And as it finally  dropped on December 5th she announced her new album "Ultraviolet".

It all started out with her single "Ride" that then and there I really got into thinking that Lana Del Rey as a figure, character and songtress embodies something purely American: the essence of America itsself (Well, at least of how she imagines it.) "Ride", a melancholic retroperspective on the great American myth, the frontier, the dream and the shattered promise of success, all mixed in with one of Americas central aspects: freedom. Lana seems to be what America has been, is and never will be again. Her oveure is filled with almost mythological refernces to the American dream and icons of Hollywoods golden era. She exploits, praises, criticizes and honores them simultaneously. But other then her contemporaries, like Rihanna and or Lady Gaga, she positions herself very differently towards these icons. For Gaga Marilyn might be and inspirtion, idol and predecessor, but for Lana Marilyn is a contemporary, because she highly references the iconic aura stars as Monroe, Elvis and Bettie Davis create. Lana is Hollywood back in the days, and not big blockbuster L.A.

Remarkable as well is that her work, the work of a true romantic in the literature theory sense of the word, deals with the question of the female identity in this world she creates. The representation of women. the standarts of their perception, American macho culture and masculitity stereotypes as body exposure, romaticizeation and men that are almost animalistic in their gender perception and performance are constants in her work. But as these men she shows are violently animalistic they as well disply a strong protective and very soft side. The roughest men seem the softest, the most innocent and most unexpected in their actions in difference towards our perception and expectations of their bestiality. The constrcut of the classical American man has always been at question and in the world of Lana finally is thrown overboard as they curl her hair in "Ride". 

All of this is directly linked to aspects of America and it's possibilities arousing from its mythology. Del Rey's America is not a country, nor the idea of the American Dream, but rather a great concept of existing out of common societies safety net that promises a notion of freedom that is not free in the eyes of Lana. Del Rey's freedom and America is a place where categories of common sense and notion as well as perception are no longer necessary, no longer of any importance. Life is today, and tomorrow is the big unknown to hug as a friend, not to prepare for today and then to face. All this seems pretty romanticized, out of date and like Lana herself is so fake and unknown to most of us that we feel it to be hyper-real.

With all that said we should get on track to "Tropico", Lana's latest effort. Visual wise "Tropico" is Lana Del Rey at her most "Lana-esque" she has ever been. We get super eight camera style 30 minutes of dreaming in smushed and beautifully smeared Technicolor reminescent pictures. Blurred colors and lens flares blend in perfectly to create that atmosphere of loss, happyness, sadness and melancholy at once, so that you ultimately feel: This is the crazy world of Lana Del Rey, and I am a mere spectator. Cause aint no one as melodramatic as her. Cut short we might say that "Tropico" is a story of paradise life, growing bored of it, getting kicked out of it, lhaving to live in the human created hell on earth, the beauty and pain in this hell and the possible slavation and redemption. (Well, plus or minus a joint.)

But the big question raising rather is: What in Lana Del Rey's world and work is real subtext and what is pure fantasy? Is there even a distinction between those two as the realmin which  we look at them is so romanticized, so fake an hyper-real that they maybe are the same?

Twerpocalypse 2013 - 20 Songs That Invaded My Ear - Part 2

As I have started the list of my Top 20 songs of 2013 yesterday, and gave you numbers 20 till 11, including the honorary mention and list widening number 21, now we will get down to buisness and crack the nut (I know, a bad Christmas joke, right?) Lets get this Twerpocalypse on the go!

 

#10 - "Trouble" by Natalia Kills from "Trouble" (2013)

Since she popped onto the scene of pop music Natali Kills has taken my heart by storm. And "Trouble", as the name giving song from her second album, is jut earcandy. And there aint no better gift Natalia could have made to her fans then her second studio album with a banging title track. Trouble begins as a slow song and then developes into this high energy overflower of a title track. Just a sing along and a perfect number 10. 

#09 - "Girlfriend" by Icona Pop from "This Is... Icona Pop" (2013)

Icona Pop have taken the world by storm in 2013 and might be the best thing ever happened to electronic dance and pop music since Lady Gaga. Their song Girlfireind not only happened to be the song stuck in myy ear but as well my favorite song from their debut album "This is... Icona Pop".  Very light hearted but full of good vibe beat thunder "Girlfiend" may get off lesbian vibes, and that s good, but the two are not a couple.

#08 - "Womans World" by Cher from "Closer To The Truth" (2013)

Oh, what have we been gagging at the return of the Empress of Pop and Drak Lady herself! And "Womans World" is all taht we love about Cher She pulls out all disco, combines it with dance and maes it about femnism. What is not to absolutely adore about it? At the club it is a banger, for the car as wel and you simply can not help but to sing along!  And after all the music industry is a "Womans World" and Cher is the motherfucking empress!

#07 - "Close To You" by Neon Trees from "Picture Show" (2012)

One of my personal new discoveries of 2013 but a definite exception when it comes to the release date, "Close To You" is one of these tracks that make you want to cuddle your better half as hard as possible and never let go of that person. A bit melodramatic, a bit rock and a whole lot of feeling to it. A definite must in this playlist even if not released in this year. 

#06 - "Do My Thang" by Miley Cyrus from "Bangerz" (2013)

BY now everyone should ave got the hint that 2013 maked the year of the #TWERPOCALYPSE. And who is guilty of bringing it upon us? Miley Cyrus. And hate on her or not but she definitely belongs on the list, especially with BAGNERZ really beein a good ablum. And "Do My Thang" definitely is my favorite track off that jam. It hits all the right notes and gets this mood out that says im cool, im here, i rap (even though I am white) and deal with it!

#05 - "Sexxx Dreams" by Lady Gaga from "ARTPOP" (2013)

I have been waiting for the new Gaga album forever and I was not disappointed as I heard it for the first tme. I fell immediately in love with "Sexxx Dreams" when she first performed it during her appearance at this years I-Tunes Festival. Slow, sensual, sexy, and seductive. That is waht makes "Sexxx Dreams" living up to its name. A killer hook that featurs one of the longest # ever (#WhenILayInBedITouchMyselfWhenIThinkOfYou) and a vibrant beat and guitar that should get everyone going. 

#04 - "You're Not The One" by Sky Ferreira from "Night Time, My Time" (2013)

Sky prooved to be a real insider tip this year as she was kind of in the scene aready but her label seemed to not have taken so much interest into her. So it took forever to release her debut album "Night Time, My Time". "You're Not The One" is the lead single that really rocks the 80's elcetropop with huge indie waves and a great reminiscence of David Bowies "Low". A definite must have on everyones IPod as well as...

#03 - "Everything Is Embaressing" by Sky Ferreira from "Ghost EP" (2012)

...this song as it has really dominated my playlists this year.  Beeing the second exception on this list due to its release year it definitely is one of the great records of our time. Since Sky melancholy has never looked and sounded any better and we just love it. Witty, humorous and smart "Everything Is Embaressing" is a smart dance pop, funk number from the slow kind that gives you life while listening while it has a clear hint of this Lana Del Rey sadness. Probably one of the best songs this year, as it has been released as a single in 2013.

#02 - "Artpop" by Lady Gaga from "ARTPOP" (2013)

The title track of "ARTPOP" gives us what the whole concept of ARTPOP is all about: rawness, elctronic vibration and a hybrids of the unlikeliest kinds. Music wise the song gives us the full essence of the album as it flows all over the place with synth pop beats, edm influences and a high dose of out of this world sounds. "We could, we could belong together" and "Artpop could mean anything" give us the clear impression that Gaga will have more in stores for us with the whole concept of the reverse warholian experience.

#01 - "We Can't Stop" by Miley Cyrus from "Bangerz" (2013)

The defnite song of the year is "We Can't Stop". Love it, hate it, despise it or adore it. There was no way one could escape this song in 2013. As Miley has made her debut in the adult music industry it is to be noticed that besides controvrsial lyris and a slighty shocking music video she has creatd her own brand of music: dirty south hip hop inspired pop with electronic nuances. "We Can't Stop" is a mid tempo pop song that had us all, you know you tried, twerking, if we can or can't. See? This number one is the #TWERPOCALYPSE i was talking about!

Thats it. Im off. Possibly twerking. #TWERPOCALYPSE

Twerpocalypse 2013 - 20 Songs That Invaded My Ear - Part 1

Man, this year has flown by like nothing. At least it feels like it, even though looking back it seemed so filled with big pop cultural moments like no other. So what better way to look at the passed year then starting a review of it that looks back by giving a list of the 20 songs that invaded my ear. So lets start the first part of the list, number 20 till 11!

Honorary Mention - "Sublime" by Raja (2012)

Raja, is season three winner of RuPauls Drag Race. Raja is known for her androgyneous, warrior type style of drag that dominates the runway. She might not be as known as Jinkx or Willam but Raja has this very mystical and daring personality. Sublime might be from 2012, and hence can only gets the "Honorary Mention", but it is such a great song with a concept music video that it just had to be part of this list. Because it is about that time, I am feeling so sublime.

#21 (Should Be On The List, But Not in the Top 20) - "Dark Horse" by Katy Perry feat. Juicy J. (2013)

As you may have noticed I was not what you call in love with Katy Perry's latest musical effort named PRISM. But there is one song on there that has made its way into my musical heart and that is Dark Horse. Maybe its ound like a chipmunk remix of something in the beginning but then turns into this vibrant beat thing with some funk musoc in it. Katy making it a mixture of singing and rapping and Juicy J really delivering a fitting rap end make up a bit for PRISM as a musical failure.

#20 - "Excuse My Rude by Jessie J from "Alive" (2013)

There is something about Jessie J's voice that mae you either wanna hate or love her. And with "Excuse My Rude" Jessie not only hits all the right notes, but as well is she rocking all the right lyrics. This song definitely says it all and say it best when simply stating "Excuse my rude, but I really fucking hate you!", I mean if we are honest there are a few people you would like to say that to. (I actually have a long list of such people!)

#19 - "The Stars Are Out Tonight" by David Bowie from "The Next Day" (2013)

Smooth, soothing ans sensual. These three words may describe this song best as it is a great song from an even greater and legendary musician. The song definitely reminds me of one of these old lounge act that stand n a stage in a small club and the leaad singer makes love to the mic. What is not to love about that? Exactly! And even better is the music video starring Bowie himself and Tilda Swinton. #Legendary

#18 - "Bad Girls" by M.I.A. from Matangi (2013)

M.I.A. is a very well known symbol for hip hop and rap that is not kept in boundaries. And that is seldom in the buisness since hip hop has always been about stereotyper, heteronormativity and the American Way. So what distinguishes M.I.A. and "Bad Girls" from it is that she manages it perfectly to mix in oriental flair and sounds without loosing thedgyness of the new electronic hip hop wave. That song definitively is one of my favorites for driving in my car.

#17 - "#BlurredBynes" by Detox, Willam & Vicky Vox (2013)

Robin Thickes "Blurred Lines" was such a horrible song that it definitely deserved to be parodies an taken to the realm of funny. And along there comes a bunch of witty and funny queens that make this one their own. "#BlurredBynes" is as much a parody of "Blurred Lines" as itis making fun of Amanda Bynes, supportng Amanda Bynes and making fun of absolutely anyone and anything. Besides amazing drag looks, sickening lyrics we get some of the greatest hashtags ever! #VAGINACIDE #SRSLYSYRIA