Shortly before his
international rise to fame, Canadian born pop star and songwriter Justin Bieber
began to form his fan base of “beliebers” through his YouTube channel. It was
through the posting of video covers of songs by Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson
and Ne-Yo that Bieber became an Internet sensation. This fell into the hands of
an eager manage who flew Bieber out to meet his idol Usher, who eventually
signed the young singer to a contract. Bieber’s first single, One Time, went certified platinum in Canada
shortly after its release. His album matched that success selling more than
137,000 copies within a week of its release in stores!! Bieber has now become a
global phenomenon with his cult of beliebers spanning across the globe (dedicating
numerous sites to him, buying Bieber memorabilia such as his videos, clothing,
Bieber dolls, famous purple American Apparel sweater, perfume line etc).
In addition to being
recognized for his musical talents, Bieber has been honored for his efforts and
contributions to philanthropic and charitable causes. These activities include
visiting fans in the hospital, helping with the Children’s Miracle Network
Hospitals by performing at benefit concerts, donated portions of the proceeds
from some of his albums to charities, Believe Charity drive, Pencils of Promise
organization.
His efforts earned him a
spot on the list of the most charitable celebrities of 2011. On top of all his
charitable works Bieber constantly urges his fans to donate whatever they can,
mentioning charity and depicting individuals in need of assistance in some of
his songs (ex- Pray).
Another example of Bieber charity work is his part
in “We are the world 25” and “Young artists for Haiti.” Both songs helped raise
money for the 2010 earthquake in Haiti, all proceeds from the song went to
raise money to help with relief. For Young artists for Haiti proceeds went to
designated charities such as World Vision, Free the Children and War Child.
Taking all this into consideration Bieber seems
like a great role model, leader and Christian believer- advocating for change,
assisting the less fortunate, praying for a better day. Many are skeptical of
the teens true intentions: is this just to make him look good in the eyes of
his fans, gain a wider fan base of beliebers and international recognition for
his efforts or does Bieber truly believe in what he advocates? But this
skepticism can be said for all celebrities that advocate for their charities.
Personally I do not think Bieber’s intentions are to gain more fans. Bieber is
very influential and has a large fan base. Through his songs, and depictions of
the realities in less fortunate cities (poverty, illness, natural disasters)
Bieber can influence fans to make a difference, following in his footsteps. In
reality we really do not know for sure if Bieber sincere in his actions. It is
important to view his actions in relation to their widespread effect. Whether or
not his intentions are sincere the causes he advocates for are amazing projects
such as building schools for 75 million children who do not have access to
education (donating $1 of every concert ticket sale to build 100 schools in 3rd
world countries).
More videos of some of Bieber’s contributions-
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A6kCkkLo6Rw&feature=relmfu
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nB7L1BIDELc&feature=player_embedded#!
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