Read U Wrote U (feat. Alaska, Detox, Katya & Roxxxy)
RuPaul
The Fierce Battle of Drag Queens in 'Read U Wrote U'
The song 'Read U Wrote U' by RuPaul featuring Alaska, Detox, Katya, and Roxxxy Andrews is a vibrant showcase of drag queen artistry and a testament to the competitive spirit of RuPaul's Drag Race, where the song was featured. Each verse is performed by a different contestant from the show, and they use their lyrics to assert their dominance, showcase their unique personalities, and 'read' (a drag term for humorously criticizing) each other, all while paying homage to RuPaul, the mother of modern drag culture.
The term 'reading' in drag culture is a playful exchange of witty, often sassy comments meant to humorously critique someone's appearance or behavior. In this song, the artists use their verses to 'read' their competitors and assert their own prowess. The repeated line 'Wrote ya, told ya, now I, now I read ya' emphasizes the act of reading as a powerful tool in the drag community, symbolizing the ability to articulate one's thoughts and assert one's presence. Each artist brings their own style to their verses, with cultural references, personal anecdotes, and a display of lyrical dexterity that reflects their drag personas.
The song is not just about competition; it's also a celebration of the art of drag and the individuality of each performer. It encapsulates the essence of drag culture, which is about self-expression, resilience, and the ability to turn life's challenges into art. 'Read U Wrote U' is a battle cry for drag queens everywhere, encouraging them to be confident, to stand out, and to leave a legacy in the 'hall of fame' of drag.