Christina Aguilera has reflected on the impact of her seminal 2002 hit ‘Beautiful’.
In a cover conversation with PAPER, the Grammy-winning pop icon discussed the trailblazing music video for her signature anthem, which memorably featured a same-sex couple kissing and a trans woman at a time when representation was scarce.
Twenty two years later, the Linda Perry-penned ballad is widely regarded as one of the greatest LGBTQIA+ anthems of all time.
“I’ve gotten the feedback of how certain videos like ‘Beautiful,’ to show two men kissing, were very meaningful for a lot of people and made them feel okay to come out,” Aguilera told the publication.
“‘Beautiful’ addressed things that people don’t want to talk about, things that people don’t want to reveal and I revealed them in that video.
“We could have made a very different video where I was playing it safe, very cliché, but I went to a place of forcing it upon the public.
Aguilera continued to say that she’s “so proud” of the video and its impact on the LGBTQIA+ community: “It was early on in my life where I didn’t even think twice about it. There’s a lot to be said about why something makes you uncomfortable.
“What is that? Let’s get into it, let’s talk about it. It takes a lot to be able to look inwards and challenge your own beliefs. Most people can’t do it.”
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Throughout her legendary career, Aguilera has continuously used her platform to support queer people, having raised funds to help the fight against HIV/AIDS, and advocating for marriage equality and against anti-LGBTQIA+ bullying.
She also dedicated a song called ‘Change’ to those affected by the horrific mass shooting at LGBTQIA+ nightclub Pulse in Orlando, with proceeds going directly to the victims’ families.
In 2019, Aguilera was honoured with the Ally for Equality Award at the Human Rights Campaign Los Angeles Dinner.
“I have found the most solace and unimaginable strength in my friends who identify as queer,” she wrote at the time, thanking her LGBTQIA+ dancers, glam artists and creative friends who have helped her out of the “darkest times” in her life.
“I recognise there are still so many hurdles ahead, but to realise how far we’ve come and that my voice and presence has made an impact thus far is more fulfilling than words can express.”
Read Christina Aguilera’s full interview with PAPER here, and revisit the iconic ‘Beautiful’ video below.
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