Fans Overlook the Message in D’Angelo’s Notorious Video
The music video landscape has dramatically changed over the years, especially with the recent closure of MTV’s music channels in the UK. This evolution harkens back to an era when music videos filled television screens for hours, reflecting the pervasive influence of pop culture.
D’Angelo’s Untitled Video: A Shift in R&B Representation
One notable work that emerged from this golden age is D’Angelo’s iconic video for “Untitled (How Does It Feel).” Released in 2000, this video played a crucial role in altering perceptions of male artistry in R&B.
A Unique Artistic Expression
D’Angelo’s “Untitled” video gained immense attention for its artistic presentation. The visual features the artist performing sensually, with slow camera movements accentuating his physique. This portrayal was strikingly different from the typical male presentation of the time, which often catered solely to the female gaze.
- Video Release: 2000
- Grammy Awards: Best Male R&B Vocal Performance, 2001
- Album: “Voodoo” won R&B Album of the Year
Cultural Context and Impact
At the time of its release, music videos often reinforced themes of female objectification. Songs like Britney Spears’ “Oops!… I Did It Again” coexisted with empowering anthems from groups like Destiny’s Child. In this context, D’Angelo’s work stood out as it presented male vulnerability, which was groundbreaking.
Fredara Hadley, an ethnomusicology professor, recalls the powerful impact of the “Untitled” video. She noted that regardless of differing tastes in music, many would gather to watch it repeatedly, captivated by its artistry.
The Deeper Meaning Behind Voodoo
D’Angelo’s album “Voodoo” revealed themes of love and emotional depth. Songs like “Lady” and “The Root” explored romantic affection, projecting a more nuanced image of masculinity.
In a documentary from 1999, D’Angelo described the therapeutic nature of creating “The Root,” highlighting the song’s deeper emotional resonance. His honesty about vulnerability and love differentiated him from contemporaries and enriched the R&B genre.
Contrasting Views on Exploitation
Despite its artistic merit, the production of the “Untitled” video raised questions about exploitation. Journalist Touré shared insights from the video shoot, revealing D’Angelo’s initial reluctance to participate. The tension between artistic expression and exploitation surfaced, raising crucial discussions about male representation in music.
The video not only showcased D’Angelo’s talent but also prompted reevaluation of how male artists engage with their image. As critiqued by observers, even D’Angelo’s pre-performance routines indicated a conscious effort to align body image with public expectations.
Conclusion
D’Angelo’s “Untitled” video remains a pivotal moment in music history. It challenges traditional representations of male artists and invites discussions on vulnerability, objectification, and artistry. As we look back, it’s clear that the influence of such innovative works continues to resonate in today’s musical landscape.
