Supermodel of the World

by Alex Henderson A colorful transvestite and icon of African-American gay culture whose outrageous sense of humor never seems to let up, Ru Paul could arguably be described as "The Little Richard of '90s Dance Music." But Ru Paul isn't the novelty act some have dismissed him as being. Boasting a decent vocal range and a strong passion for '70s disco/soul, Ru Paul is a bonafide dance/house music artist whose debut album, Supermodel proved him to be a definite asset to '90s house and R&B. When he tears into "Supermodel (You Better Work)" and other overtly '70s-influenced dance-floor gems, Ru Paul shows himself to be a sweaty, emotional belter who projects a lot more soul and honest emotion than most of the cookie-cutter artists dominating '90s urban-contemporary radio. Hopefully, those able to look past his wild image will come to realize how good a singer he is.