Response to Jessica's post "The Cult of Gaga"

I really love that you brought up pop icons from the past, Madonna in particular! As we all know, Madonna was no angel. Many have criticized her for her explicit songs, skimpy outfits, and what some call anti-Christian behavior. Sound familiar? The racy attributes ascribed to the “Material Girl”, have left many comparing Lady Gaga to the Queen of Pop.

Madonna’s revealing clothing of the 80’s left little to the imagination, and the rosary and crosses she hung around her neck or wore as earrings, made some Christians uncomfortable. Her music videos were no different. Her videos were under much scrutiny, especially Like a Prayer, which features a black Jesus. Many claimed Like a Prayer to be sacrilegious and even an act of heresy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cSVbwwsLPqw

Just as you mentioned about Gaga, many wondered if Madonna was sending positive messages to teens. Even in recent years Madonna has gotten herself into controversy. On her Confession tour in 2006, Madonna’s crucifix scene sprung much debate. Her concert was to be released live on air and the Catholic League urged NBC to edit that section out of the special. Madonna spoke out against the attack:

"This is not a mocking of the church," she said. "It is no different than a person wearing a cross or 'taking up the cross' as it says in the Bible. My performance is neither anti-Christian, sacrilegious or blasphemous. Rather, it is my plea to the audience to encourage mankind to help one another and to see the world as a unified whole. I believe in my heart that if Jesus were alive today he would be doing the same thing." *

NBC did not include the controversial scene.

In 2010, Madonna sparked controversy again 

as she holds a crucifix to her mouth in a seductive pose.

To address your question of inappropriate material in the media, I think children and teens are definitely exposed to a lot, especially with the access of the internet. However, with the example of Madonna, breaking and questioning norms is seen even before our generation. After all, Rock ‘N Roll was associated with rebellious teens and sexual innuendo. Material deemed inappropriate in the media needs to be embraced not feared. I think parents and educators should discuss inappropriate material with children to gain greater knowledge. My question is, what did NBC prove by not showing Madonna’s crucifix scene? Did it really make a difference? 

* “NBC: Debating Madonna crucifix scene,” USA Today, http://www.usatoday.com/life/television/news/2006-09-21-NBC-madonna-debate_x.htm

I'm a bad kid and I'll survive!

In lecture yesterday we discussed the infamous Lady Gaga and the controversy swirling around her, as many Christians find her music and videos offensive. As we studied her video for “Bad Romance”, the class pointed out the obvious Christian references such as the crosses on the coffin-like cases that hold the “monsters”, and her crossing herself before she dances. These images seem to contradict the video’s nudity and sexual implications, leaving many Christians suspicious of Gaga’s intent. Some religious people find her “dangerous” to society since she certainly is not scared of challenging any norms. The lyrics to the song, however, do not quite seem to fit the video. The lyrics speak to the theme of unconditional love - “I want your everything, as long as its free; I want your love.” Certainly unconditional love can be considered a positive in the Christian faith.

In class the idea of her own religion was mentioned in regard to her group of “monsters” and her self-proclaimed leader, “Mother Monster”. I think it is fair to say Gaga definitely provides religious functions through her music. She has created a community for not only fans, but her dedicated “monsters” too. She provides meaning through her song lyrics such as unconditional love and inclusivity throughout her work. Her song Bad Kids off her latest album, Born This Way, is a great example. In the song she describes the “bad kids” as unemployed, degenerates, selfish punks, and the like, but reassures them that they are all accepted: “Don’t be insecure if your heart is pure. You’re still good to me if you’re a bad kid, baby”. Gaga’s unquestionable love and respect to all those considered “bad kids” or outsiders is not only seen through her music. She has even begun her own advocacy group to stop bullying and empower youth, which will be officially launched on February 29.

I invite you all to join her movement at: http://www.BornThisWayFoundation.org/

Check out the lyrics to Lady Gaga's, Bad Kids: http://www.ladygaga.com/lyrics/default.aspx?tid=23592559