Is Beyonce Using An Audio Clip From The Challenger Disaster Insensitive?

By now you have all probably heard of the criticism Beyonce is receiving for using an audio clip from the Challenger disaster in her new song "XO". Some people say it is insensitive, others say it is fine.

This raises a good question. Should artists be considerate of other people when they express themselves? In controversies like this people say that the artist has their right to express themselves in anyway they choose. Art can be provocative. I agree that artists no matter what they believe should be able to express themselves, however they can still cross the line. There was no reason to have the Challenger audio clip in "XO". The clip does not relate to the song. You could take out the audio clip and the song would not be effected at all. The reason that clip is there is so people will complain and the song will get attention, which is clearly working. Beyonce claims the song is supposed to be in on honor of the Challenger victims, but that is clearly not the case. The song is about a relationship. There is no reference to the Challenger disaster in the lyrics or video. I question if she even knew the audio clip was from the Challenger disaster. It should also be noted that the families of the victims of the Challenger disaster and the NASA people connected to it are greatly offended, but that is expected.

Artists have power in this world. By being provocative some artists can raise awareness to important issues. However, in cases like this the artist is only seeking attention, which makes them insensitive to those effected by the tragedy.

Is Lip-Syncing A Big Deal?

Recently Britney Spears has gotten criticized by accusations that she lip-synced during her recent show. I remember when Beyonce received the same criticism when she sang the national anthem in January. Personally, I do not think lip syncing is a big deal.

I want to start by pointing out that a lot of modern artists do this. It is the same with auto tune. I understand people feeling cheated by lip-syncing because they pay to see the artist perform and the artist is not really giving their all into it. However, artists in some cases might be too exhausted to give a proper performance. People used this arguement to defend Beyonce. No one wants  to pay an expensive fee to hear their artist sing lousily. People are satisfied as long as they hear the songs they want and the show is entertaining.

If people are willing to forgive a guy who beat his girlfriend, then people should also be willing to forgive a singer for lip-syncing one or two performances. However, if you are offended by lip-syncing then I can see where you are coming from.