Hello again,

            I would like to build upon my previous comments by continuing to analyze the apparent conventions in Dirrty, by Christina Aguilera.  Throughout the music video, Christina is repeatedly contorting her body through her various dance moves and poses.  This technique is referred to as clowning and exaggeration.  By accenting the idea of flexibility and the capabilities of the female body, it conveys a sexual message, which in turn puts her body on display and allures the male viewers.  As a result, women are commonly regarded as sexual objects that primarily exist for either the appreciation or disapproval of men.

            The dominant role that men play in society leads me to introduce the next prevalent convention, which is referred to as the voice-over of authority.  By incorporating a masculine voice in the music video, it indicates the control that men have over women and how their opinions are most valued in society today.  Near the beginning of the song, a masculine voice is featured primarily to utter the words “filthy” and “dirty,” which portray the idea that the voice of authority typically belongs to a man.  Throughout the music video, the men are deeply drawn to the female dancers, as they nod their heads in approval and evaluate from the sidelines.  This conveys the message that North American girls should constantly strive to satisfy the opposite sex, therefore meeting the female requirements that have already been outlined for them.  In the Western World, people are constantly eager to please, thus not encouraging the great importance of self-respect and dignity.

            I have always taught my daughter to value her body, and not to be influenced by the portrayal of women in music videos that exist today.  The music industry in North America is centered upon the desirability of the female body, and it is absolutely unacceptable how women are continuously depicted. 

            -Mohaddisa