Shifting Culture

What does it mean when a mainstream singer produces a video with blatant BDSM elements? Sure, lots of performers play with the idea of kink and sexuality. But Rihanna's new video is chock full of images from the lifestyle. I read one comment from someone in the BDSM community asking if this song felt like an anthem for them? I wouldn't go that far. I think everyone picks their own personal soundtrack to their life and for a community that appreciates diversity as a rule (or so I pray)I'd hate to identify one song as an anthem. Still, this song, when coupled with the video, goes a step farther than most of the music I've heard. Maybe Madonna's song Erotica matches it, but not in the same fun, lay it on the line manner that Rihanna does. So what does a video like the one below do for BDSM within mainstream culture? Make it a laughing matter or one for more derision? I don't know. I hope not. I do know that society shifts through exposure to new ideas and images. Slowly, but it does. The video will probably redirect you to play on YouTube directly. I posted this on my own blogsite last week. Tell me what you think. Safe, sane and consensual, Michelle