These days it is just a fact: if you're going to talk about pop, you are going to have to talk about Justin Bieber. When I saw "Pray" on the class playlist, I knew it was a perfect place to start week 2.
The song, like most pop songs, isn't complicated. It is simple, it is repetitive, and it is catchy. But, despite its simplicity I think it has a message worth talking about. In fact, Justin says the same thing the Black Eyed Peas were saying in my last post: take a step back, look at what really matters, find your faith and decide what you are going to do about it. This song, to me, is another example of how certain values can be found anywhere: in any country, race, social class, or music genre.
The video itself actually sent more of a message than the song, in my opinion. I have gained a lot of respect for Justin Bieber after watching "Pray." In the song he says "Can someone tell me how to make a change?" but in the video he shows that he is doing all he can. He is visiting kids in the hospital, he is visiting the active military... He isn't just sitting around saying "I wish things would change but I can't do anything to make a difference." In the end, Justin Bieber is just one person - no different than you or me - and from the looks of it he is making huge strides toward a better future. In a way, he takes away our excuses here. The lyrics may not urge us to take action directly (the closest it comes is "I pray for all the souls that need a break,
Can you give 'em one today?") but there is no mistaking that message by the example of JB in the video.
In the second verse he asks, "I lose my appetite, knowing kids starve tonight. Am I a sinner? Cause half my dinner, Is still there on my plate?" I think that this is where Justin really made a connection to his audience - at least to me. This is what made him seem like a real human being, not just another "popstar." When he asks about his own flaws, with sincerity, it once again reminds us that we are not that different from him.
Do you see a better day when you close your eyes? Do you pray?
I know there's some debate on this, but I think it's great when celebrities can use their platforms to make a difference. As you pointed out, it's obvious Justin is doing that. However, I think this song can make a difference too. There are a lot of little girls listening to him, and hopefully this song can inspire them to have a positive outlook - and turn to God - no matter what they're going through. I think this song also implies that prayer is important - which it DEFINITELY is. We have to trust God with our hard situations; it doesn't mean that they'll turn out like we want them to, but we still have to trust Him.
ReplyDelete--Allie