The Transvestite Community In The Song Lola By The Kinks

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The transvestite community is one was rarely accepted in the 1970’s compared to that of today's world. They were known to be trivial and shameful in mainstream society, and those who identified as trans were deemed ridiculous. This did not stop the song “Lola” by the Kinks from reaching number two on the UK Singles Chart. Which subtly composed a passionate love story between a young man and a distinctly masculine woman. Despite the negative feelings about transvestites during the time when “Lola” was released, Ray Davies used powerful metaphors and a catchy chorus to create positive vibes towards transvestites and supports justifying everyone in the LGBT community.
There is much speculation covering if “Lola” is simply a woman that possesses masculine characteristics, or in fact a transvestite. Back in the 70’s this song had caused some uprising between radio stations. Some radio stations would even fade out the song before Lola’s biological assigned sex could be revealed. Most people favored the idea that Lola was indeed a woman, to justify listening to it without breaking conventional morals that went against dressing as the opposite sex. Although, in the beginning of the song, the speaker uses synesthesia to express that Lola had a “dark brown voice” already implying that she has a hint of an average male characteristic. …show more content…

It was a simple catchy song meant for the pleasure of the listener's ear. Even when Davies sang it to his daughter, she instantly was hooked. Transvestites should be a topic you drop everything to analyze, but just enjoy that were living in a world that encourages you to express yourself. “Lola” could have been one of those small step to get to where we are now in society with accepting others and ourselves. Ray Davies uses an upbeat, catchy tune and positive imagery to express Lola’s gender and to inform others that love is love, no matter what sex you

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