Things are bad when a demonized rock star criticized for on-stage antics like “beheading” himself says he understands why people are upset at your latest video.
Alice Cooper told CBS News that Erykah Badu’s “Window Seat” video was an artistic expression but called her nudity “too easy” and said he understood why people were upset.
In case you missed it, Badu became the subject of public scrutiny when the video launched late last month. The one-take performance, filmed without the proper permits from the city of Dallas, shows Badu walking down the street while stripping naked in front of unsuspecting onlookers, including children. The act is followed by the singer falling down as if being shot. The video was filmed on the same street where President John F. Kennedy was assassinated.
Badu told MTV that the video was for “men, women and children who don’t think they’re good enough.”
Although the video was posted on national news Web sites, it was removed last week when Badu was charged with disorderly conduct and ordered to pay a $500 fine.
The video resulted in discussions about the merit of creative license, especially since the people on the street were unaware that the shoot was happening. It also has caused Dallas officials to consider tougher penalties for those who film without proper permits.
There seems to be some debate about why the video is controversial. Some say it’s because of the fake shooting in the location where Kennedy was shot; while others say it’s the public nudity.
What do you think about Badu’s video? Are there legal or ethical concerns or is this art?
