Butch Queen Walking Femme. . .

Paris Is Burning

A few days ago, I came across an old mix from the Fool’s Gold Podcast that I had seen, but had yet to have the time to actually sit down and listen to. I figured it was time to actually do it considering it was a mix by Canadian duo Nacho Lovers, who are well known and loved for their amazing ability to revive house as we know it and turn into something all the more magical than the stuff already is!

This mix in particular, which is a compilation of old house tracks, is quite striking because of its centering on music from the ballroom scene, one of the most daring, interesting, and modern takes on the intersection of music and fashion. Mind you, when I say “ballroom.” I am not talking about Dancing with the Stars. I am referring to the underground gay/trans scene parties that involve fashion shows, dance competitions, and a whole lot of work and preparation by the ”houses” that put them on (houses (based on the concept of fashion houses and family; family = “mother,” “father” and “children,” aka the group leaders and the performers) changing the way we think about family) typically take on names of popular icons and fashion designers). Popularized by Jennie Livingston’s film Paris Is Burning, balls continue in the present, though the face has changed a bit (as things are a bit more sophisticated). The balls in themselves form a major commentary on issues of class, sexuality,race, and gender. The balls, especially in the state they are in as portrayed in the film, say a lot about the transformation of NYC as well (note the neighborhoods they mention and how much they have changed since that time).

This Nacho Lovers mix captures the music of the scene at its rawest, being sure to include ball announcements (i.e. of who is walking, what the competition category is, etc).

Nacho Lovers – Fools Gold Podcast – “I Nacho NY” (Tracklist can be found in the Music Archive)

In honor of the scene itself, I’ve posted all the youtube links (the entire film) below. Enjoy!

Paris Is Burning

Part One:

Part Two:

Part Three:

Part Four:

Part Five:

Part Six:

Part Seven:

Part Eight:

Part Nine:

Part Ten:

Part Eleven:

- Retail DJ

Tags: nacho lovers, nyc, paris is burning