YES WE CAN, OR CAN WE?

According to Will.I.Am, hip-hop artist and producer extraordinaire, the people of the United States can make a difference in the upcoming elections. In a video promo in support of Democratic nominee Barack Obama, a range of familiar artists, repeat excerpts of a speech made by Obama. The music video is produced by Will.I.Am, and offers insight into the political views of the star as well as his celebrity friends. However, besides being a celebrity filled tribute in support of Barack Obama, the video poses a belief upon the viewers. The belief is simple: Yes We Can. The slogan in itself is ambiguous. However, when watching the video the meaning becomes clear. It is a statement that speaks to the power of change and the belief that we ordinary citizens can alter the state of the country into a positive place.
This advertisement works because it speaks to a younger generation that is very heavily influenced by pop culture. Will.I.Am was smart to include athletes, singers, and actors into this video because it will influence the way certain people vote. However, this also speaks volumes about the American culture. The fact that a promotional video, featuring various celebrities, is made to incite change within the country is sad. George Bush’s record as President should be enough. I can’t think of another country where this would happen. According to youtube.com, the video already has close to 10,000,000 views! When it is all said and done, this video has influenced someone, whether it is in a positive or a negative way. After all, this is the United States, where culture has taken a backseat to pop-culture.