I have to admit, I don’t really hate the song or the video for Rihanna’s “Rockstar 101” featuring Travis Barker and Slash. Rihanna’s lyrical sensibilities can leave a lot to be desired, but isn’t that kind of the point? She’s a pop-dance artist, and you know all the lyrics after listening to the song once. So I like the song for what it is – a heavier, more metal pop song. The video is really good though! Very stylized, gorgeous black-and-white, quick cuts on Rihanna in various sketchy get-ups. The “Slash” get up is my least favorite. My favorite is the one with the Viking horns. Who knew Rihanna + Viking horns = magic? I also like the “blackface” look just because it’s so visually stunning to see her made up like that.
I was confused by the Slash get-up, actually, until I learned that Slash actually plays on the song, although he does not make an appearance in the video. Unless Rihanna’s outfit and wig count, which they don’t. MTV summarizes: “Although Slash is featured on the track as a performer, the GNR member doesn’t quite appear in the video — at least, not in the flesh. But Rihanna pays homage to him toward the end of the clip, comically sporting a skull-laden top hat, leather jacket, dark glasses and toothpick. Rihanna projects Slash’s swagger and plays the guitar in a way that would make most blush.”
More screen caps from the video:
