Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Omar Apollo has released a powerful new music video for his song Ice Slippin, shedding light on the struggles faced by individuals coming out to their families. The video, directed by rubberband, features touching clips from Apollo’s family home movies, showcasing the love and support he received as a child, juxtaposed with his adult self filmed naked and encircled by blocks of ice.
The song itself is a poignant piano ballad that reflects Apollo’s personal experience of coming out to his family and receiving a cold reception. In a news release, Apollo shared that Ice Slippin is a reflection of the thoughts he had when he came out and the cold judgment he felt he received instead of the acceptance he deserved. The song delves into the emotional journey he faced before and after he decided to leave his hometown in Indiana.
The release of Apollo’s video comes at a time when LGBTQ+ individuals in the United States are facing increasing legal challenges to their expression. The video highlights the importance of acceptance and understanding within families, as many LGBTQ+ youth experience rejection, leading to an alarming number of them becoming homeless. According to a study by True Colors United, which was founded by Cyndi Lauper, LGBTQ+ youth are 120% more likely to experience homelessness than their non-LGBTQ peers, with family rejection being a significant factor.
Omar Apollo’s journey with his own sexuality has been both personal and public. While he had previously been hesitant to share details about his love life, he started teasing his appearance at Coachella in 2022 by displaying billboards in the desert with the provocative message, Heterosexuality can be cured. Just watch Omar Apollo. Additionally, Apollo has been vocal on social media, shutting down speculations and confirming his queerness in his own unique way.
The release of Ice Slippin not only showcases Apollo’s vulnerability and talent as an artist but also amplifies the conversation surrounding the struggles faced by LGBTQ+ individuals. Apollo’s music video serves as a reminder that acceptance and understanding should transcend societal barriers, allowing LGBTQ+ individuals to live authentically without fear of rejection.
As Apollo continues to make waves in the music industry, he is also advocating for social change and fostering dialogue among his fans. Through songs like Ice Slippin, he invites listeners to reflect on the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals and encourages inclusivity and empathy.
Omar Apollo is set to appear at the Life is Beautiful Festival in downtown Las Vegas, showcasing his talent and further spreading his powerful message of acceptance and understanding.
