BTS’ RM being backlashed for sharing Frank Ocean’s song ‘Bad Religion

False Rumors:
In the era of social media and instant information dissemination, rumors can spread like wildfire, often leading to misunderstandings and unjust accusations,

BTS’ leader RM, also known as Kim Namjoon, has recently been accused of being Islamophobic by some fans, haters, and other fandoms like ”Blink” after he shared a song by Frank Ocean on his Instagram story. The song, titled ‘Bad Religion’, contains lyrics that some Muslim listeners found offensive and disrespectful to their faith. However, BTS ARMY and netizens have defended RM, arguing that he did not intend to hurt anyone’s feelings and that the song is not Islamophobic at all.

The controversy started on August 16, 2023, when RM posted a screenshot of Frank Ocean’s ‘Bad Religion’ on his Instagram story, indicating that he was listening to the song. The song, which was released in 2012 as part of Ocean’s debut album ‘Channel Orange’, is widely regarded as a personal and emotional expression of Ocean’s unrequited love for a man. The song uses religious imagery and metaphors to convey the singer’s pain and loneliness, such as comparing his love to a ‘one-man cult’ and a ‘bad religion’.

However, some of the lyrics in the song also mention the Arabic phrase ‘Allahu Akbar’, which means ‘God is greatest’, and is commonly used by Muslims in their prayers and daily life. The song also implies that being brought to one’s knees by love is a bad religion, which some interpreted as a negative remark on Islam since Muslims kneel down during their prayers. Some Muslim fans were offended by RM’s choice of song and demanded that he apologize for sharing an ‘Islamophobic’ song. Some even went as far as burning their photo cards of RM or calling him names.

On the other hand, BTS ARMY and netizens came to RM’s defense, saying that he did not mean any harm or disrespect to Islam or Muslims.

They pointed out that RM is known for being open-minded and respectful of different cultures and beliefs, and that he has shown his support for various social causes in the past. They also explained that
Frank Ocean’s song is not Islamophobic, but rather a personal expression of his own struggles with his sexuality and identity. They argued that the song does not attack or mock Islam, but rather uses religious symbols as metaphors for love and despair.

Some fans also noted that RM has previously shared songs by other artists that contain religious references or themes, such as Kendrick Lamar’s ‘How Much a Dollar Cost’ or Hozier’s ‘Take Me to Church’, without facing any backlash or criticism. They suggested that RM was simply sharing a song that he liked or related to, without paying attention to the lyrics or the meaning behind them. They urged the critics to be more understanding and tolerant of RM’s musical preferences and choices and to not judge him based on one song.

As of now, RM has not responded to the controversy or issued any apology. However, some fans have expressed their hope that he will address the issue soon and clear up any misunderstandings, ARMY Believes he is not at fault to apologize ” Those should apologize who disrespected him by burning his pictures and in other so many ways” said an ARMY.

BTS ARMY hopes that the controversy will not affect his mental health or his relationship with his fans. They have shown their love and support for RM by trending hashtags such as #WeLoveYouNamjoon
or #NamjoonWeTrust on X. They have also praised him for his leadership skills, his musical talents, and his positive influence on others.

As a prominent figure who has consistently promoted inclusivity, cultural understanding, and global harmony, Namjoon’s track record speaks for itself. It is crucial to differentiate between baseless rumors and the reality of his respect for Islam and all faiths. In a world that thrives on accurate information and empathy, it is our responsibility to dispel falsehoods and embrace the truth.