Is Heterosexual Man by the Odds homophobic?

Cafe Society
1

Listening to the iPod today and Heterosexual Man by the Odds came up in the shuffle. Yes, yes, the song is from 1993, I’m an old lady, blah, blah, blah. I’ve always found this song a toe-tapper, turn it up, sing along sort of thing; however, I also feel a touch guilty because I recall some press in 1993 suggesting that the song is homophobic. Now - I don’t really get that - if anything it seems more self-deprecating to straight fellows; however, in a bid to fight my ignorance, I’m asking for input. FWIW, here’s a representative excerpt:

I’m not seeing much there dissing on gay men; however, if anyone has a different opinion I would like to hear it.

2

I’ve never heard the song, but from your lyrics I’d say it’s more sexist than homophobic. And yes, “self-deprecating to straight fellows.”

3

How are those lyrics offensive to gays. I’m gay and I don’t see it having anything to do with homosexual. Of course I could be dense about it. :slight_smile:

It seems from the lyrics the guy wants sex but is impotent. I don’t see it as being really sexist, (OK a bit sexist) the man clearly states he wants women but if they say, “no,” then he will move on. Sounds a bit on the respectful to me

4

It’s the first line that is somewhat sexist in its implications . . . like every girl exists just so he can “get” her. But I don’t see anything homophobic.

5

You little whippersnapper. I saw the Odds in concert once…because they were the opening act on Procol Harum’s reunion tour. I’m old. :wink:

6

I think if you see a homophobic reference or underlying agenda in that song, I’d say you are reaching.

Of course, I’m a hetero male, so maybe I’m being insensitive to the issue.

7

They did a really funny video for that song which featured three of the “Kids in the Hall”. I used to have it on a video tape, since worn out sadly. In the video, the three “Kids” started out as redneck construction ‘manly men’ and one by one transformed into women. It was hilarious, maybe that’s what prompts the ‘homophobic’ accusations. I’m going to see if it’s even available on youtube.

8

Ah, here it is!

9

Well, I’m as sensitive to the issue as you can get, and I don’t see it either.

10

Yah - if I recall it was maybe something along the lines of the song is pro hetero guy, so it therefore must be anti gay guy. That seems sort of weak to me, but I’m not a gay guy.

11

Are you sure you’re not misremembering controversy over this song? I don’t remember the song at all myself (I’m not too young or anything, I just don’t think I ever heard it), but out of curiosity I did a search in Access World News. Although I found a dozen or so 1993 articles mentioning this song, none suggest that it was considered at all offensive to homosexuals. It’s described as “ironic”, “satirical”, “wry”, “witty”, and a “parody”, but not homophobic or anti-gay. The only hint of controversy I’m seeing is with regard to sexism: