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Singer Katy Perry performing in Pontiac, Michigan on March 28, 2009. (samborowski / Flickr.com / Creative Commons)
Singer Katy Perry performing in Pontiac, Michigan on March 28, 2009. (samborowski / Flickr.com / Creative Commons)
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Updated: Friday, 29 Oct 2010, 10:25 AM EDT
Published : Friday, 29 Oct 2010, 10:25 AM EDT
(CANVAS STAFF REPORTS) - Katy Perry took to her Twitter account on Thursday to announce the world premiere of her new music video for "Firework," the latest single from her album "Teenage Dream."
In the video, Katy Perry shows victims becoming victors over their circumstances in life.
The opening images are of Katy looking over a balcony and a young boy struggling with his fighting parents, who he ultimately stops from fighting. The video takes on some other pretty tough issues, including a child cancer patient leaving the hospital and a girl who is insecure about her body taking off her cover-up to join a joyous pool party.
The tough topics covered in the video are in contrast to the upbeat and fun song "Firework." While the lyrics do have strong meaning, it is ultimately a fun song.
Katy has cited "Firework" as her personal favorite song from her latest album. She considers it something of an anthem. MTV News reported that Katy stated, "I think 'Firework' would be like the opus or my one song, if I had to pick a song to play, 'cause it has a great beat. But it also has a fantastic message."
Along with the debut of the "Firework" video, Katy announced that she is dedicating it to the It Gets Better Project , a project that started in the wake of the suicide of several bullied, gay teenagers. Dan Savage founded the project in September 2010. The movement aims to show discouraged and even suicidal teenagers that the pain does go away, that life does get better. Many other stars and politicians have joined in the movement, including President Barack Obama, Laura Bush, Hillary Clinton, Rob Thomas, Ashley Tisdale, and Darren Hayes.
Perry had previously been criticized by gay right campaigners, including activist Peter Tatchell, for her song "UR So Gay," which has lyrics can be interpreted as being demeaning to gay people. Some fans have not forgiven the song and her defensive attitude toward its criticism, but most seem to be embracing her strong, positive message with "Firework."
Her dedication has not gone unnoticed. The It Gets Better Project publicly posted a thank you to Katy Perry on its Facebook page. The updated stated, "Thanks, Katy Perry, for adding your voice to the 100,000+ who've joined the It Gets Better Project Movement."
Katy Perry has taken it a step further than the campaign, too. She took to her official website to announce a "Firework" contest. To enter the contest, fans simply enter a short video about a firework in their lives, someone who has made a true difference in the lives of others or the world; that firework can even be oneself. The winner gets a trip for four to London to see Katy Perry in concert, as well as a meet and greet with her.
Watch the video.