Lil Nas X in the “J Christ” video (Photo: Shutterstock)
After much hype and a clearly expensive video, Lil Nas X’s eagerly awaited comeback single has stalled. The controversial “J Christ” entered the Billboard Hot 100 at number 69.
By comparison, Ariana Grande’s comeback song, “Yes, And?”, rocketed straight into the number one spot.
Lil Nas X enjoyed three top-ten singles from his Montero album, including two number ones. The performance of his new song will likely be a disappointment. However, on social media, he put on a brave face and joked about it reaching number 69.
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“We did it boys! we reached the funny number. be very proud of yourselves. this is our moment!”
we did it boys! we reached the funny number. be very proud of yourselves. this is our moment! https://t.co/lI9FkdTspb
In the run-up to the release of “J Christ”, his first single in a couple of years, Lil Nas X teased fans about entering his “Christian era”.
He posted numerous memes and tweets to hype up his comeback. This included posting a fake letter of acceptance to a Christian college.
The song’s accompanying video is full of Bible-inspired imagery.
However, after receiving some backlash from Christians, LNX felt moved to issue an apology. He said he hadn’t meant to offend anyone. He specifically apologized for a TikTok video he posted in which he wolfed down communion wafers and shots of wine.
Online, fans of the rapper say the song deserves to go higher. Others demanded he starts teasing his next song or just hurry up and drop his album.
Last Friday, Lil Nas X conducted a Q&A with fans on his Instagram stories. Asked if he felt supported by his team and label following the recent criticism he’d received, he said “VERYYY”.
Asked if the online hate bothered him, he said, “I don’t think anything is fair as an artist, or person in general, and i believe you have to take the bad with the good and the good with the bad.”
Lil Nas X has already revealed that one of his upcoming tracks will feature Kesha. Today he announced on his Instagram that fans can expect another new song, “Where Do We Go Now”, this Friday.
Here’s hoping the performance of “J Christ” doesn’t knock him off his stride. We still can’t wait to hear what he’s got in store with his next album.
For those wanting more insight into Lil Nas X, in addition to another new song, the behind-the-scenes documentary, Lil Nas X: Long Live Montero, debuts this Saturday (January 27th) on HBO and will then be available to stream on Max.
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Listen to “Like a Prayer” and then this. I’ve only watched and listened to this once and I didn’t find it worth a second shot. As for # 69, it’s an intriguing number – much more so than the music itself.
But hey, everyone is entitled to a sophomore slump. Some are artists, like Madonna, who have a master’s degree and some just flash in the pan. More artistry on the music is the starting point; X’s producers failed him selecting a boring, repetitive song. Since the hook is the video, perhaps he should move on.
May I recommend Lil Nas write his next song about becoming pregnant while unmarried, and struggling to discuss it with his father? I know, I’m a genius, coming up with these original ideas…
Nas, religion is a minefield that isnt worth entering. I am an atheist but even I steer clear of religious anything. I love a few of the costumes but switching, bumping and grinding back and forth while clearly referring to J. Christ is a bit much even for me. You are a damn good entertainer and should be a bit more selective in future songs.
Shying away from standing up to them only opens the door for them to impose their beliefs on you.
You can steer clear, but I actively get in the faces of christians and challenge their beliefs, their sanctimonious self righteousness, and the sheer and abject hypocrisy.
Nothing sends them more over the edge then telling them there’s no historical basis or archeological evidence to support the existence of Jesus.
Zzzzz is still living his nightmare. Wake up. Even the Pope has accepted Christ’s teachings of love, acceptance and compassion. It’s time you realize that the hate is coming from those PRETENDING to be Christian. Try to understand the difference.
Test the water before screaming that it’s too cold. The vast majority religions accept those of us seeking kindness and generosity. Thinking people certainly don’t believe the literal nonsense stories; but, they understand the parables. I suggest you unclench the hate and move forward with your life. Clinging to victimhood and hate, is no way to live.
Do you think that because Jeffrey Dahmer was gay that ALL gay people are cannibals?!? Move beyond the hate and fear you hate and fear in others. Don’t give them power over you… which is what you do when you condemn entire groups because of a tiny vocal minority. Move beyond collective punishment and judgement; it’s pure bigotry. Categorically reject bigotry – even your own.
Zzbomb: That’s exactly what I do to your ilk and the loopholes with gender “affirming” care for children.
You can steer clear, but I actively get in the faces of christians and challenge their beliefs, their sanctimonious self righteousness, and the sheer and abject hypocrisy.
Nothing sends them more over the edge then telling them there’s no historical basis or archeological evidence to support the existence of Jesus.”
This is what has some people upset?
Anyone who finds this song and video offensive I’m genuinely jealous of your life. B/c I wish my life had so much less important things to actually worry about that this would be “offensive” to me.
Can we also point out the irony of the same people who call this offensive are the same ones who coined the phrase, “f*ck your feelings” and complain how the country has become too sensitive as a society? B/c, my how sensitive you must be to be offended by this song and video.
My problem is he already did this act to promote his previous album. Normally, when popular artists put out a new album, they give you a different look, a new schtick or gimmick. This is just the same stuff he’s already done. We already heard you and we already saw you do this promotional act, sir. What else you got? Push a new button.
X had a really good song. And he pushes boundaries among those who have resisted us, our realities and our creativity. Like Billy Porter, X is taking risks. If we can’t love those seeking to help the community, at least respect them for their bravery. Living on the cutting edge often means you risk bleeding.
I doubt if wooly101 is even out to his family. What say you?
I rode my bicycle past your window last night
I roller-skated to your door at daylight
It almost seems like you’re avoiding me
I’m okay alone, but you’ve got something I need
Well, I’ve got a brand-new pair of roller skates
You’ve got a brand-new key
I think that we should get together
And try them on to see
I’ve been looking around a while
You’ve got something for me
Oh, I’ve got a brand-new pair of roller skates
You’ve got a brand-new key
I ride my bike, I roller-skate, don’t drive no car
Don’t go too fast, but I go pretty far
For somebody who don’t drive
I’ve been all around the world
Some people say I’ve done alright for a girl
I asked your mother if you were at home
She said, yes, but you weren’t alone
Oh, sometimes I think that you’re avoiding me
I’m okay alone, but you’ve got something I need
Well, I’ve got a brand-new pair of roller skates
You’ve got a brand-new key
I think that we should get together
And try them on to see
La-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la
La-la-la-la-la-la-la
Oh, I’ve got a brand-new pair of roller skates
You’ve got a brand-new key
Decrans, do you speak the truth just to make abfab hate a good person? Both the action and anticipated reaction seem petty. Unless… you wish to help abfab learn to modify his/her extremist nature. What’s your motivation for stirring the pot?
I speak truth because he’s an illiterate hypocritical idiot. And I give no fu–ks. Similar to Zzbomb above, I enjoy pointing out left-wing cognitive dissonance and watching them squirm. They do the same thing with conservative Christians. I provide them with a taste of their own medicine. That’s my service.
I have touched upon a nerve in abfab: the truth. Abfab certainly does not need my assistance; they need education in history, reason and logic.
The world does not revolve around abfab’s need to call childish ad hominins. The third grade is not a stopping point; it’s just the beginning of your journey into reality. Step forward in your life armed with and education and dignity.
Decrans, Think of these extremists as your child – just learning to communicate. You teach them thru example. They are angry young minds lacking education and necessary tools.
That is the failure of our nation’s move into consumerism away from citizenry. A good citizen studies all sides of an issue; a consumer chooses between what is presented.
I do understand your motives; just please do it with kindness. “Great minds think alike; though fools seldom differ.” We have differences and that, I respect.
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Baron Wiseman
I feel like Madonna did this 30 years ago, except in a more artful and entertaining manner.
abfab
If you knew anything about her, you’d know she’d rather not have you as a fan.
Ronbo
Listen to “Like a Prayer” and then this. I’ve only watched and listened to this once and I didn’t find it worth a second shot. As for # 69, it’s an intriguing number – much more so than the music itself.
But hey, everyone is entitled to a sophomore slump. Some are artists, like Madonna, who have a master’s degree and some just flash in the pan. More artistry on the music is the starting point; X’s producers failed him selecting a boring, repetitive song. Since the hook is the video, perhaps he should move on.
Terrycloth
3 number ones ? Who is buying his records ? I thought he was a one hit wonder with that boring novelty song old Town Road.
bachy
May I recommend Lil Nas write his next song about becoming pregnant while unmarried, and struggling to discuss it with his father? I know, I’m a genius, coming up with these original ideas…
Sister Bertha Bedderthanyu
Nas, religion is a minefield that isnt worth entering. I am an atheist but even I steer clear of religious anything. I love a few of the costumes but switching, bumping and grinding back and forth while clearly referring to J. Christ is a bit much even for me. You are a damn good entertainer and should be a bit more selective in future songs.
ZzBomb
Shying away from standing up to them only opens the door for them to impose their beliefs on you.
You can steer clear, but I actively get in the faces of christians and challenge their beliefs, their sanctimonious self righteousness, and the sheer and abject hypocrisy.
Nothing sends them more over the edge then telling them there’s no historical basis or archeological evidence to support the existence of Jesus.
Ronbo
Zzzzz is still living his nightmare. Wake up. Even the Pope has accepted Christ’s teachings of love, acceptance and compassion. It’s time you realize that the hate is coming from those PRETENDING to be Christian. Try to understand the difference.
Test the water before screaming that it’s too cold. The vast majority religions accept those of us seeking kindness and generosity. Thinking people certainly don’t believe the literal nonsense stories; but, they understand the parables. I suggest you unclench the hate and move forward with your life. Clinging to victimhood and hate, is no way to live.
Do you think that because Jeffrey Dahmer was gay that ALL gay people are cannibals?!? Move beyond the hate and fear you hate and fear in others. Don’t give them power over you… which is what you do when you condemn entire groups because of a tiny vocal minority. Move beyond collective punishment and judgement; it’s pure bigotry. Categorically reject bigotry – even your own.
decrans
Zzbomb: That’s exactly what I do to your ilk and the loopholes with gender “affirming” care for children.
You can steer clear, but I actively get in the faces of christians and challenge their beliefs, their sanctimonious self righteousness, and the sheer and abject hypocrisy.
Nothing sends them more over the edge then telling them there’s no historical basis or archeological evidence to support the existence of Jesus.”
Yup. Same, girl, same.
decrans
Or should I say, Reeee! and Trump, Trump, Trump! I love when I send the hypocrites over the edge, too.
LegionKeign
His fatal mistake was apologizing to the crazed christians.
NEVER apologize for your creativity and vision.
He apparently didn’t take any notes from Mother Madonna.
ZzBomb
This is what has some people upset?
Anyone who finds this song and video offensive I’m genuinely jealous of your life. B/c I wish my life had so much less important things to actually worry about that this would be “offensive” to me.
Can we also point out the irony of the same people who call this offensive are the same ones who coined the phrase, “f*ck your feelings” and complain how the country has become too sensitive as a society? B/c, my how sensitive you must be to be offended by this song and video.
KiraNerysRules
My problem is he already did this act to promote his previous album. Normally, when popular artists put out a new album, they give you a different look, a new schtick or gimmick. This is just the same stuff he’s already done. We already heard you and we already saw you do this promotional act, sir. What else you got? Push a new button.
wooly101
I’ll never understand this wierdo’s appeal.
Ronbo
X had a really good song. And he pushes boundaries among those who have resisted us, our realities and our creativity. Like Billy Porter, X is taking risks. If we can’t love those seeking to help the community, at least respect them for their bravery. Living on the cutting edge often means you risk bleeding.
I doubt if wooly101 is even out to his family. What say you?
abfab
Now, HERE is a song. RIP MELANIE : (
I rode my bicycle past your window last night
I roller-skated to your door at daylight
It almost seems like you’re avoiding me
I’m okay alone, but you’ve got something I need
Well, I’ve got a brand-new pair of roller skates
You’ve got a brand-new key
I think that we should get together
And try them on to see
I’ve been looking around a while
You’ve got something for me
Oh, I’ve got a brand-new pair of roller skates
You’ve got a brand-new key
I ride my bike, I roller-skate, don’t drive no car
Don’t go too fast, but I go pretty far
For somebody who don’t drive
I’ve been all around the world
Some people say I’ve done alright for a girl
Oh, yeah, yeah
Oh, yeah, yeah, yeah
Oh, yeah, yeah, yeah
Oh, yeah, yeah, yeah
I asked your mother if you were at home
She said, yes, but you weren’t alone
Oh, sometimes I think that you’re avoiding me
I’m okay alone, but you’ve got something I need
Well, I’ve got a brand-new pair of roller skates
You’ve got a brand-new key
I think that we should get together
And try them on to see
La-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la
La-la-la-la-la-la-la
Oh, I’ve got a brand-new pair of roller skates
You’ve got a brand-new key
Singer/Songwriter: Melanie Safka
decrans
Melanie was a libertarian. Oops.
Ronbo
Decrans, do you speak the truth just to make abfab hate a good person? Both the action and anticipated reaction seem petty. Unless… you wish to help abfab learn to modify his/her extremist nature. What’s your motivation for stirring the pot?
abfab
Modify yourself Ronbo. No one needs your assistance. And really, that asshole is beyond repair. Thanks anyway….
decrans
I speak truth because he’s an illiterate hypocritical idiot. And I give no fu–ks. Similar to Zzbomb above, I enjoy pointing out left-wing cognitive dissonance and watching them squirm. They do the same thing with conservative Christians. I provide them with a taste of their own medicine. That’s my service.
Ronbo
I have touched upon a nerve in abfab: the truth. Abfab certainly does not need my assistance; they need education in history, reason and logic.
The world does not revolve around abfab’s need to call childish ad hominins. The third grade is not a stopping point; it’s just the beginning of your journey into reality. Step forward in your life armed with and education and dignity.
Decrans, Think of these extremists as your child – just learning to communicate. You teach them thru example. They are angry young minds lacking education and necessary tools.
That is the failure of our nation’s move into consumerism away from citizenry. A good citizen studies all sides of an issue; a consumer chooses between what is presented.
I do understand your motives; just please do it with kindness. “Great minds think alike; though fools seldom differ.” We have differences and that, I respect.
DGL
Lil Nas is a homophobic bisexual who is also ugly, and his music is absolute trash!