Klaus Nomi...
Klaus Sperber (January 24, 1944 - August 6, 1983), better known as Klaus Nomi, was a German countertenor noted for remarkable vocal performances and an unusual, otherworldly, elfin stage persona. Nomi is remembered for bizarrely theatrical live performances, heavy make-up, unusual costumes, and a highly stylized signature hairdo which flaunted a receding hairline. His songs were equally unusual, ranging from synthesizer-laden interpretations of classic opera to covers of 1960s pop standards like Chubby Checker's "The Twist" and Lou Christie's "Lightnin' Strikes".
~wikipedia
Why I think it's successful: The elements incorporated within the music itself--late '70's dance, glam, and opera music --demand both a persona and a performance that is as juxtaposed as the sound. The music is elevated above the mundane and the look that Nomi created for it mirrors that perfectly. In the video clip above for example: Nomi's Gothic interpretation of Elizabethan hair and make-up, his robotic dance, the plasticine outfit--the shoes!--and the androidenal African dancers all combine to enhance the vibe of the music without being distracting and obnoxious. It's like a full-body massage version of a concert experience= engages all the senses.
1 comment:
Wow! Thank you for that. Your story was interesting since it's always fun to hear a first-hand experience of someone whom you admire. Plus, the Blitz Kids website is full of inspirational ideas for design school.
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