How BTS’ “Permission To Dance” Music Video Shines a Light on the Deaf Community for Disability Pride Month
After their smash hit, song of the summer track “Butter” was released a few months ago, it is clear that BTS has developed a knack for the English language in their upbeat songs. However, with their latest addition to their repertoire, “Permission to Dance” shows that the band not only learned English for this track, but sign language as well.
With July being Disability Pride Month, many disabled persons are taking this time to uplift their fellow community by expressing themselves, while sharing information to spread awareness and educate others on the proper conduct when interacting with a disabled person. It is always refreshing and encouraging to see big names in music do the same, as BTS did with their Ed Sheeran collaboration song, “Permission to Dance”. The song and music video was released on July 8th, 2021 and is the follow up track on the band’s newest EP Butter, titled after its first single.
The lyrics and melody of the song itself is very uplifting, and overall spreads positive vibes to listeners. However, the music video spreads a different message that radiates encouragement and strength, as a large crowd of people are seen dancing, smiling, and finally reconnecting after the pandemic -as symbolized by them removing their masks. The video also celebrates diversity, as people of all ages, genders, and ethnicities were featured behind BTS.
However, the BTS ARMY fanbase took note of the subtle use of sign language in the official choreography for the song, and praised the band for shining a light on the hearing impaired community during Disability Pride Month. As one user posted on Twitter, “‘Permission to Dance’ includes special choreography that incorporates international sign language that means ‘fun, ‘dance,’ and ‘peace’.” Sources stated that the reason for including these signs was to spread inclusivity to all communities, as these movements are easy to follow and universal to all countries.
Many members of the hard of hearing and deaf community, and close friends and relatives of these people were touched and inspired by this gesture. One fan stated, “As a mother of a deaf son and educator of the deaf. When I tell you this scene brought tears to my eyes, y'all.” Other fans expressed similar sentiments, sharing how watching the people in the music video dance out these signs and noticing the other small easter eggs that shine a light on disability awareness made them emotional and warmed their hearts.
BTS has always been very cognizant of the various communities that comprise their fanbase and does their best to cater to all of them. Many artists can learn from BTS’ accomplishments by realizing the importance of knowing your audience and making sure that you pay attention to their needs. Engaging and interacting with your fans is the best way to build a relationship with them, and using your platform to preach inclusivity is always a great way to go!
