Teyana Taylor is Ballroom’s Cinderella in Iconic Video for “WTP”

Arts

Jan 25

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Teyana Taylor wowed the world this week with the release of her whimsically successful video for “WTP.” The vogue maven paid homage to the legendary houses of the ballroom scene by giving thanks and getting her tens. With appearances by Lena Waithe, Trace Lysette and Shaun Ross Xtravaganza, the video expertly blends the worlds of underground style and bop-worthy music to shed light on an underappreciated community of Black and Brown queer artists. In true Teyana Taylor fashion, the mockumentary teaches the children about the rich history of ballroom, under the guise of a Cinderella-esque storyline. Seriously, this video is so good it’ll leave you thinking, “Why am I gagging so? She brings it to you every ball!”

Set in cities such as New York, Atlanta, and Los Angeles, where balls have lived and thrived for decades, “WTP” follows Taylor as she transforms from the House of Petunia’s chastised little sister to a ballroom icon. The side splitting punchlines, coupled with Taylor’s witty acting skills, set the tone for how real and cutthroat, yet close-knit, the house system is. The singer is dead set on being able to showcase her directing talents and, ultimately, “work [her] pussy” at the ball. Hilarious.

What’s most refreshing about this banger, aside from its perfect-for-Voguing beat, is that the video gets its point across without pandering to a niche audience. Taylor is furthering the movement of inviting underrepresented communities into the mainstream spotlight, in an effort to let their voices be heard. Television programs like Pose and My House do a great job of diversifying our cultural landscape, but Ms. Taylor shows that there is a lot more glitz, glamour, and good representation to be had.

Be sure to watch the music video for Teyana Taylor’s “WTP” on YouTube now!

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Ivana Fischer is a film and media enthusiast who specializes in cultural studies. You can find her across all socials @iv.fischer

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