“But she’s my idol!”
Today’s entertainers are bad role models for ETHS students.
Nowadays, there are new pop artists hitting the stage everyday. These mainstream artists make whatever type of music they in order to become famous. They go to extremes with their song lyrics in order to make the Billboard Chart’s Top 100 Hits, degrading women and upgrading men in the process. Today’s entertainers have a negative effect on female and male students alike at ETHS.
“I wasn’t born last night, I know these girls ain’t right… Why give a girl your heart when she’d rather have a purse.” These are the fabulous lyrics of Chris Brown’s top hit of “Loyal.” Once the music is cut, we hear the real opinion of Chris Brown and his views on women.
Chris Brown portrays women as heartless and materialistic. He relays the message that women would rather have cars, clothes, and money over genuine love and happiness. He ends every verse with “these girls ain’t loyal.” Now we see the male population of ETHS quoting this song and other songs far worse when they want a good laugh from their friends. This generation of young men is starting to lose respect for women completely.
Along with Chris Brown’s explicit lyrics, Miley Cyrus’s dress and actions articulate what’s hot in 2014. To a sensible teenage female Miley Cyrus is what NOT to be. In her hit single “23” Cyrus lets us know who she really is. Gracing the screen with a vintage Michael Jordan Bulls jersey and white pumps, she shows everyone what she’s got. From the wild makeup and short dress ensemble Miley shows young ladies what sexy should be.
Then girls shop at Forever 21, Macy’s and many other clothing stores to achieve the look. But who is going to respect a woman with all of her skin showing?
Entertainers must do better with the image that they portray to the media. The minds of teenagers are very malleable, and the entertainment industry has a lot of power over them.
On the contrary, there are entertainers like John Legend and Pharrell who are topping the Billboard charts with their appropriate and inspiring music. These entertainers have been a part of the industry for years and have yet to conform to society’s norm. For instance, Pharrell’s new hit, “Happy,” topped the charts this year. His music still reaches a wide audience and his catchy lyrics always render a positive theme. ETHS students can enjoy his music without feeling degraded.
Entertainers of today are not good role models for Evanston students. The images that they portray on TV are negative and poor examples of entertainment. Students need to be mindful of the music they listen to. Don’t let the lyrics alter your thought process. Try listening to different genres and expanding your musical library.