Released on January 24th, "Dancing Astronaut" is a mesmerizing blend of electronic and R&B, with Lewis' ethereal vocals taking center stage. The music video, directed by Cole Walliser, follows the journey of a couple through a futuristic, space-themed dance club. As the song progresses, the couple's provocative dance moves leading to a steamy encounter in a spaceship.
While the video has received praise for its artistic visuals and choreography, it has also sparked controversy and discussions about its sexual nature. Some have applauded Lewis for owning her sexuality and celebrating it in the video, while others have criticized it for being too explicit and not aligning with her usual elegant image.
The sexual context of "Dancing Astronaut" is not surprising considering the lyrics of the song, with lines like "So show me how you make it work, give me your supernova" and "No gravity, we're floating free, this love is out of space." However, it's not just the lyrics that convey a sexual theme, but also the provocative dance moves and close-up shots of Lewis and her male counterpart.
The use of sexual imagery in music videos is not a new phenomenon, and many artists have faced criticism for it in the past. However, as society becomes more educated and open about sexual life, there is a growing acceptance and appreciation for artists owning their sexuality and expressing it through their art.
Leona Lewis herself has spoken about the sexual context of "Dancing Astronaut," stating that she wanted to showcase the connection and chemistry between two people through dance. She also mentioned that the song is about being unapologetically yourself, including being sexual and sensual.
However, as with any discussion of sexuality in the media, there is a fine line between artistic expression and objectification. Some critics have argued that the music video relies too heavily on the male gaze, with Lewis' sexuality being used solely for the pleasure of the viewer.
There is also the argument of how this music video fits in with the #MeToo movement, which has brought attention to the objectification and mistreatment of women in the entertainment industry. While "Dancing Astronaut" may not be explicitly promoting objectification, it can be seen as adding to the larger conversation of how female artists are often expected to use their sexuality to sell their music.
In conclusion, the sexual context of Leona Lewis' "Dancing Astronaut" music video has sparked discussions and debates, as well as highlighting the ongoing complexities and double standards surrounding female artists expressing their sexuality. While some may view it as a celebration of sexual liberation, others may see it as perpetuating harmful ideas about women and their bodies. Ultimately, it is up to each individual to interpret and engage with the video in their own way.
