KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 21 — 1990's pop queen Christina Aguilera has breathed new life into her iconic 2002 hit song Beautiful, after releasing a brand new music video for the track.
The new music video released yesterday was also in conjunction with the 20th year anniversary of her fourth album, Stripped as well as to commemorate World Mental Health Day.
The music video sticks to the song’s main message of self-acceptance; however this time, the message is focused on children and social media.
In the new music video, a group of children are seen hooked on social media and how this affects their mental health and self-worth.
From body image issues, substance abuse to dependency on makeup to feel beautiful, the new version of Beautiful tells the story of how children cope with the pressure that comes with social media use.
"‘We are Beautiful, no matter what they say’ A message I will always stand by and a message I prioritise to instill in my own children through every chapter of their lives!" Aguilera wrote on her Instagram.
"Today, it’s harder than ever to hear our own voice amongst so many others infiltrating our feeds and minds with mixed messaging. Ultimately leading us to tune-out our own truth and self-worth.
"The original Beautiful video set out to bring awareness and a sense of compassion in the face of judgment, criticism and outside opinions.
"It still carries an important message to remember our core values outside of what’s being fed to us, to find a sense of balance and accepting ourselves for who we are,” Aguilera added.
The original music video highlighted individuals battling racism, homophobia, eating disorders as well as body dysmorphia.
"Thank you to all of the incredible individuals who participated in bringing this new Beautiful video to life.
This song means so much to me and I deeply appreciate everyone’s boldness, bravery and courage in standing up for something bigger than ourselves! I’m honoured and I love you all,” she posted on her Instagram.
Aguilera also included a call-to-action message at the end of the video, raising awareness on how social media has affected the lives of children.
"In the last 20 years, since Stripped was first released, social media has transformed our relationship with our bodies and, in turn, our mental health.
"Research suggests that time spent on social networking sites is associated with body image issues, self-harm and disordered eating in children and teens. This needs to change,” she said.
Since its release yesterday, the new music video has garnered over 600,000 views on YouTube and amassed over 40,000 likes.
*If you are lonely, distressed, or having negative thoughts, Befrienders offers free and confidential support 24 hours a day. Contact Befrienders KL at 03-76272929 or 04-281 5161/1108 in Penang, or 05-547 7933/7955 in Ipoh or email [email protected]
