"At the end of the day, of course I'm gonna have a gay son. I'm not gonna have a straight son, am I? That doesn't make sense."—Belinda Carlisle talks about her son, James Duke Mason, coming out.
You know what they say: What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas—unless you're Billy Masters. In that case, what happens in Vegas will get broadcast around the world! This column is being filed from my palatial suite overlooking the Vegas Strip, but don't get too impressed. I'm at the Rio All-Suite Casino and Resort, where all of the rooms are suites! Since the sun is coming up as I just stumbled in to write this, let's get down to business.
The Rio was my first stop because I was seeing my buddy Jeff Timmons (formerly of 98 Degrees) appear with the world-famous Chippendales. Even though I've known Jeff for over a decade, I was absolutely shocked by how incredible he looks. At 38, he looks better than ever—and that's saying something. He's also one of the genuinely nicest people in the world—a trait that lends itself perfectly to his gig hosting the Chippendales. Of course, that face and body don't hurt! Then there's the voice, which is so associated with hits from his boy-band days—songs that are featured in this show, in addition to his solo work. In short, this is a match made in heaven—and judging from the sold-out houses and the extension of his contract, the Rio agrees. And let me tell you something—this ain't your mother's Chippendales. This is a slick, well-produced, intricate extravaganza that lives up to the hype. Of course, the guys are gorgeous, but they can also dance and deliver a fun, fast-paced, and sexy show.
Jeff and I caught up in his dressing room and did a fun little interview where he talks about his gay fans, that his first solo gig was performing at Chicago Gay Pride and the fact that the boys reading this column will also enjoy this "ultimate ladies night." In fact, I was seated next to a very sexy boy—former American Idol contestant Ace Young. You can see photos and the interview on BillyMasters.com .
The main reason for my trip was to go to the opening night of The Go-Go's national tour, "Ladies Gone Wild." It never ceases to amaze me what a great band this is. It's been more than two years since they've performed together, and yet they sound as tight and solid as any current band. However, more than that—the girls (as I continue to refer to them) are having a blast. This is no meandering trip down memory lane. These are rockers who love what they do and connect with the audience on every level. I have to single out Belinda Carlisle, who not only looks incredible, but really threw herself into the show with the abandon of someone half her age. Her voice is stronger and brighter than ever, as if she's turned back the hands of time. I felt like a teenager again ... if only I could find my Bugle Boy jeans. (Ironically, Timmons wears Bugle Boy parachute pants with the Chippendales.) Back to The Go-Go's—I cannot recommend this show enough. Catch them when they come to a city near you. I'll run some photos, including one of Belinda and Mary Wilson, a founding member of The Supremes (and a Vegas resident).
I'm sure you all tuned in for last week's long, drawn-out farewell to Saint Oprah. I'm sure she's assembling documentation to present to the Vatican for her canonization. Now, don't take my attitude as a jab at the lovely Miss Winfrey. I respect her. I think she's done some amazing things. But then again, to whom much is given, much is expected. My issue is simply how she does it. I wish things were done with a slightly less "Look at me, I'm THE OPRAH!" kinda attitude. She's almost like Donald Trump. At some point, I expect we'll see her name on a casino or hotel or some Eurotrash bleached blonde skiing paramour.
Then there was the American Idol finale and all that drama. Would Lauren sing? Was she too sick? Would Haley push her down a flight of stairs? And when Scotty sang that ghastly "I Love You This Big," I kept thinking, "Exactly how big are we talking about?" Not that I care really, but when you sing a song with that title, you can't be surprised if I go there.
We had a handful of e-mails from fans regarding the "Idol" finale, so we'll do an informal "Ask Billy" segment. The dancer who was humping Lady Gaga onstage was Mark Kanemura, a finalist from season four of "So You Think You Can Dance" and a native of Kaneohe, Hawaii. And the hot fiddle player featured during many of Scotty and Lauren's songs was Nathan Stoops—a talented musician, singer and jewelry designer. While I don't know Mark, I do know Nayte, which is how he spells it (and yet he's straight—go figure). Remember when I told you about going to a play last week with Bruce Vilanch and a group of friends, including one straight guy? That straight guy would be Nayte—who had a ball and was delighted to hang out with this gaggle of gays. I'll post some delicious photos of both boys on BillyMasters.com .
When the Idol showdown was more like a hoedown, it's definitely time to end yet another column. It's also definitely time for me to shut down my WeHo abode and head back to Boston. As I said, I'll be with The Go-Go's (and special guests, The B52's) on June 9 (pre-Pride) at the Bank of America Pavilion. After that, I could be anywhere—and, of course, I'll be keeping you up to date on www.BillyMasters.com . If you want to send me a question, drop a note to Billy@BillyMasters.com and I promise to get back to you before I winch into my old Bugle Boy parachute flight suit! Until next time, remember, one man's filth is another man's bible.
