I Got Two Versions: Frank Ocean, Lil Nas X, and the Rhetoric of Progressive Masculinity in Rap Music
Graduation Term
2022
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
School of Communication
Committee Chair
Joseph Zompetti
Abstract
Rap music serves as one of the most popular genres of music worldwide. Despite its popularity and influence, the genre has often been criticized for its inclusion of misogyny and homophobia. Frank Ocean and Lil Nas X, two Black queer male rappers, are introducing a new style of masculinity to the genre that is centered on a blurring of the masculine and feminine. Through a rhetorical analysis of the lyrics, music videos, and live performances of “Nikes” by Frank Ocean and “Industry Baby” by Lil Nas X, this thesis characterizes progressive masculinity, its impact on understandings of masculinity in rap, and how these two men are altering the genre of rap music.
Access Type
Thesis-Open Access
Recommended Citation
Lobdell, Evan William, "I Got Two Versions: Frank Ocean, Lil Nas X, and the Rhetoric of Progressive Masculinity in Rap Music" (2022). Theses and Dissertations. 1555.
https://ir.library.illinoisstate.edu/etd/1555
DOI
https://doi.org/10.30707/ETD2022.20220705065052168975.999985