A couple of recent odd instances of celebrities endorsing politicians have spurred further investigation on the topic. The merging of pop culture and politics, although slightly frightening in some respects, also proves to be highly amusing.
Nicki Minaj’s recent lyrics about Romney in her rap as a guest artist on Lil’ Wayne’s album released at the beginning of September caused a great deal of debate on her political stance: “I’m a Republican voting for Mitt Romney/You lazy b*****s is f*****g up the economy.”
These lyrics caused so much controversy that President Obama even mentioned it, saying that he doesn’t know what was going on in those lyrics, but he acknowledged that she “likes to play different characters.” Minaj later responded through her twitter: “@nickiminaj Ha! Thank you for understanding my creative humor & sarcasm Mr. President, the smart ones always do”¦ *sends love & support* @barackobama.”
After all the craziness, it seems clear now that Nikki Minaj is actually a democrat.
Last May, Rebecca Black (remember, the “Friday” girl?) made a special trip down to Morelos, Mexico to endorse Mexican presidential candidate, Enrique Peà±a Nieto. What was she doing there? I thought she would be “lookin’ forward to the weekend” and she’d be busy “gettin’ down on Friday.” Instead, she offered her support to the candidate: “Peà±a Nieto is going to do a fantastic job,” Black said.
According to an article in the Huffington Post, Black’s mother is originally from Mexico and it was later uncovered that her uncle, Gustavo Petricioli, is a council member for the Partido Revolucionario Institucional (PRI), Nieto’s party. Unfortunately, poor Rebecca Black found herself on the wrong side of critiques once again. According to Nieto’s critics, the PRI is corrupt and he will be an oppressive leader. Her support of the campaign has been said to be a “joke,” and critics also claim that she is not well informed.
Lastly, here is a story worth mentioning, as it could perhaps influence future campaigning methodology (I hope). This story is one of a politician hoping to hook voters by using pop music to his advantage.
Adam Bermudez, one of four candidates running in a Democratic state legislative primary for the New York State Assembly, created (another) parody of “Call me Maybe.” His version, “Vote for me Maybe” utilizes lyrics relevant to his campaign and the catchy tune to influence voters and get his name out there on a limited budget.
“Hey, I just met you/ And this is crazy/ But here’s my platform/ Vote for me, maybe?”
The video of him singing his version of the song and playing guitar can be found on YouTube.
I’m impressed. If I lived in New York, I’d vote for you, maybe.
What is yet to be seen in celebrity political endorsements and politicians embracing pop culture? I would be willing to bet there is much to come in the upcoming months.
