Monday, 5 March 2012

Are you a Belieber?


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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