If the most dire predictions for the US military come to pass as a result of the process of sequestration (on which a proper blog post next week), downsizing may lead to an increasing number of military personnel flooding the job market. Luckily, a number of them have been gaining valuable work experience in a related field, as video and music stars. Enjoy your friday….Gangnam Style!!!
While I have to admit I had previously remained blissfully unaware of the whole K-pop phenomenon and the artistic workings of the artist Psy, the Midshipmen at the US Naval Academy corrected this oversight (along with my Norwegian niece, who will, along with her class, be dancing ”Gangnam Style” today at her school…go Kristin!!!). For a scholarly look, read Korea-based political scientist Robert Kelly’s excellent blog article here (and, importantly, see the Psy video as well). But here’s the Midshipmen with, ironically, a parody of the Korean parody:
The Naval Academy was most likely feeling pressured by another Youtube hit, this one straight from Afghanistan. The director behind the video assures us that no taxpayer dollars were used and the video was shot on a lunch break. But its obvious that there’s a significant soft power capability here waiting to be unleased.
The only soldier, sailor or airman that appears to have a real chance at succeeding in post-military life (and is trying), is Staff Sgt Angie Johnson, who was caught on film performing with the US Air Force band Sidewinder covering the Adele hit Rolling in the Deep. Funding for the band, however, will end with the FY 2013 budget. But videos live for eternity (almost) on Youtube.
