In this episode, Ricky interviews Jeromme, the creator of the Club MTV fan page, discussing the cultural significance of Club MTV, the challenges of archiving dance shows, and the evolution of music videos. They explore memorable performances, the legacy of dancers, and the decline of MTV as a cultural force, while also touching on the future of dance and music video choreography.

Sound Bites

• "[Downtown Julie Brown]—she's been super cool."
• "It really is a public service."
• "I would love to make a documentary."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Club MTV and Its Impact

02:50 Archiving Dance Culture: The Journey

05:49 The Evolution of Dance Shows

10:07 Community and Collaboration in Archiving

14:16 Notable Dancers and Their Legacy

17:56 Comparing Club MTV and The Grind

20:23 The Decline of MTV and Music Video Culture

21:48 Navigating Copyright in Archiving

31:35 The Future of Dance and Music Videos

Keywords:

Club MTV, dance shows, archiving, pop culture, music videos, nostalgia, 80s, 90s, MTV history, dance culture

Summary:

In this engaging episode, Ricky sits down with Elyssa Maxx Goodman, a writer, historian, and drag scholar, to discuss her latest book, "Glitter and Concrete: A Cultural History of Drag in New York City." They delve into the vibrant history of drag, exploring its roots in New York City and its impact on culture both locally and globally. Elyssa shares personal anecdotes about her introduction to drag, the influence of her parents, and the significance of drag as an art form. The conversation also touches on the challenges and triumphs within the drag community, the evolution of language and identity, and the ongoing cultural and political dynamics affecting drag performers today.

Keywords:

drag history, New York City, Elyssa Maxx Goodman, Glitter and Concrete, drag culture, LGBTQ+, drag queens, drag kings, cultural history, identity

Takeaways:

• Elyssa Maxx Goodman shares her deep connection to the New York City drag scene, which inspired her book.
• The book "Glitter and Concrete" fills a gap in documenting the unique impact of New York's drag culture.
• Elyssa's introduction to drag was influenced by her parents and early exposure to films like "To Wong Foo."
• The conversation highlights the diverse history of drag, including male impersonators and the gender spectrum.
• Elyssa discusses the challenges of defining drag and the evolving language around gender and identity.
• The episode explores the socio-political factors that have influenced the acceptance and backlash against drag.
• Elyssa emphasizes the importance of recording and preserving drag history to prevent erasure.
• The discussion includes the role of drag in cultural rebellion and its acceptance during times of social upheaval.
• Elyssa shares insights into the pageantry and evolution of ballroom culture and its significance.
• The episode concludes with Elyssa's reflections on her favorite drag performers and her future projects.

Sound bites:

• "Drag is an art form that embodies transformation."
• "New York's drag scene has a unique impact on culture."
• "Recording drag history is crucial to prevent erasure."
• "Drag has faced backlash during times of social upheaval."
• "The language of drag and identity is constantly evolving."
• "Ballroom culture has deep historical roots."
• "Drag is a dynamic art form that challenges norms."
• "My book fills a gap in documenting drag's history."
• "Drag's acceptance often coincides with cultural rebellion."
• "The New York drag scene was my introduction to drag."

Chapters:

• 00:00:00 Introduction to Elyssa Maxx Goodman
• 00:00:00 The Inspiration Behind 'Glitter and Concrete'
• 00:00:00 Exploring Drag's Diverse History
• 00:00:00 Language, Identity, and Drag
• 00:00:01 Cultural and Political Dynamics of Drag
• 00:00:01 Ballroom Culture and Pageantry
• 00:00:01 Reflections and Future Projects

Keywords

HIV, AIDS, stigma, education, art, community, health, awareness, globalization, cultural production

Summary

Ricky and HIV/AIDS worker, activist, and writer Ted Kerr discuss the multifaceted aspects of HIV and AIDS, exploring their personal narratives, the impact of stigma, the evolution of public discourse, and the role of art and culture in shaping understanding. They reflect on their personal experiences, emphasizing the importance of community, education, and ongoing dialogue.

Takeaways

• HIV awareness is deeply connected to personal narratives and experiences.
• Globalization has influenced the understanding of HIV/AIDS across different demographics.
• Art can serve as a powerful tool for education and awareness about HIV.
• Fear and misinformation about HIV transmission persist, affecting people's lives.
• Stigma surrounding HIV continues to impact individuals and communities.
• Conversations about HIV have evolved, but there is still a need for present-day discourse.
• Death and stigma remain significant issues within the HIV community.
• Cultural production can integrate HIV narratives into broader social movements.
• Public health policies are increasingly influenced by systemic issues and stigma.
• The legacy of figures like Magic Johnson shapes contemporary discussions about HIV.

Sound Bites

• "Stigma kills still."
• "HIV exceptionalism is not useful."
• "The community viral load will go up."

Chapters

00:00Introduction and Context Setting

01:25Personal Journey with HIV and AIDS Activism

02:25The Role of Art in HIV Education

04:35Shifting Perspectives on HIV and Stigma

07:21Understanding HIV Transmission and Fear

10:01The Impact of Stigma on Health and Relationships

12:55Navigating Conversations About HIV

13:45The Evolution of HIV Discourse Over Time

15:53Current Perspectives on HIV and AIDS

17:53The Ongoing Reality of AIDS-Related Deaths

20:12Intersectionality and the Broader Implications of HIV

23:07Understanding HIV in Context

23:26The Role of Public Figures in HIV Awareness

27:17The Intersection of HIV and Systemic Issues

29:58The Importance of U=U Awareness

33:33The Impact of Policy on HIV Care

38:50Cultural Production and HIV Narratives