In a moving gesture, Lil Nas X shared a heartfelt letter to his younger self just prior to the launch of his new music video. The singer, best known for his smash hit “Old Town Road,” unveiled his latest single, “Montero (Call Me By Your Name),” alongside a visually stunning video that delves into profound themes of identity and acceptance.
In the letter posted on social media, Lil Nas X addresses his younger self, saying, “Dear 14-year-old Montero, I wrote a song with our name in it.” He reflects on the promises made to keep his sexuality hidden, acknowledging the weight of those commitments but emphasizing the importance of representation for the LGBTQ+ community. “This will open doors for many other queer people to simply exist,” he writes, indicating the transformative power of his art.
The music video is unapologetically queer, featuring striking imagery that challenges traditional views of Christianity. One of the most talked-about scenes includes a provocative lap dance with the devil, which has sparked much discussion. The video opens with Lil Nas X’s voiceover, paralleling the sentiments expressed in his letter: “We hide the parts of ourselves we don’t want the world to see. We lock them away. We tell them ‘no.’ We banish them. But, here? We don’t.”
In the visual narrative, Lil Nas X embodies both Adam and the serpent, showcasing a journey that culminates in a descent into hell, complete with a stripper pole. He embraces his true self in a bold display of confidence, challenging societal norms and expectations.
The release of “Montero” has stirred reactions similar to those provoked by other controversial works, igniting conversations around sexuality and self-acceptance. As he concludes his letter, Lil Nas X acknowledges the potential backlash, stating, “People will be angry, they will say I’m pushing an agenda. But the truth is, I am. The agenda is to make people stay the fuck out of other people’s lives and stop dictating who they are.”