“How Philadelphia Nightlife Influenced the Visual Aesthetic of My Music”

Throughout the duration between completing the recording of my album and its release, I wrapped up my graduate program and relocated from Knoxville, Tennessee to Philadelphia. This move took place in the summer of 2023, well before Chappell Roan’s rise to fame in 2024 with her distinctive green look that captivated a global audience. During this transition period, I encountered Chappell’s music video for “My Kink is Karma,” which showcased a diverse array of artistic elements such as drag, clowning, burlesque choreography, and theatrical vocals, stimulating my creative inspiration.
In early spring, I delved into planning the music video for my track “Morricone,” drawing influences from the visually captivating elements in Chappell’s video. The incorporation of heart-shaped makeup and dramatic scene cuts resonated with me, emphasizing the empowerment of femininity on a grand scale, almost monstrous in nature.
Shortly after my arrival in Philly, my attendance at the Wet Betty’s Wet Dreams show at Franky Bradley’s left a lasting impression. Wet Betty, an established drag performer known for her eclectic mix of clowning and performance art, had recently won the Snatcherella competition, securing a producer residency at the esteemed gay bar, Franky Bradley’s. The ship-shaped venue, renowned for its fries topped with short rib, welcomed us with a warm reception. Despite feeling a mix of emotions and missing the scenic beauty of Knoxville, I found solace in the eccentric performances at the bar. Wet Betty’s futuristic appearance, complete with a 50s-style wig and neon green eyeliner, exuded a magnetic charm that resonated with me. Her unconventional burlesque routine as a clam shell, adorned with a neon pink merkin, left an indelible mark on my psyche, making me feel more connected to Philly’s vibrant nightlife scene.
While I had prior experience living in major cities like Boston, Minneapolis, and Baltimore, my music roots in Knoxville were instrumental in shaping my musician identity. Moving to Philly without any album releases or recognition from my previous musical endeavors forced me to start afresh. Despite feeling like a small fish in a big pond, frequenting Franky’s and immersing myself in the local drag scene helped me acclimate to my new surroundings. Witnessing the extraordinary talents of performers and engaging with their larger-than-life personas was not merely about entertainment but a means of self-discovery and acceptance of my own idiosyncrasies.
The process of creating my album had a profound impact on me, transforming me from a timid performer reliant on Google Docs for lyrics to a confident touring artist eager to explore new horizons. Embracing this newfound confidence, I collaborated with drag artists in the creation of visually striking music videos, such as “Violet Lozenge.” Working with talents like Wet Betty, Avery Goodname, and Miss Thing, renowned for their practical effects expertise, helped bring my artistic vision to fruition. Hiring Sabine, winner of the Seam Queen sewing competition at Franky’s, to design my iconic meat dress for the album cover showcased the collaborative spirit and creative energy that fueled my artistic journey.
In the realm of the deluxe edition of my album, Miss Thing’s portrayal as a skin-pire high priestess added an intriguing dimension to the visual narrative, underscoring the dynamic fusion of music and visual art that continues to shape my creative process. As I navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the music industry, I am constantly inspired by the rich tapestry of Philadelphia’s nightlife scene and its profound influence on the visual aesthetics of my music.
By embracing the unique intersection of music and visual storytelling, I strive to carve out a distinct artistic identity that reflects the diverse tapestry of influences and experiences that have shaped my musical journey. As I continue to evolve as an artist, I am deeply grateful for the vibrant creative community in Philadelphia that has nurtured my growth and allowed me to explore new dimensions of artistic expression.