Celine Dion soundtrack released in American Sign Language (BSL)

Earlier this week the PR team for global superstar Celine Dion released an exciting announcement involving the deaf community.

On Monday 23^rd September, the social media pages for Celine Dion revealed that they were celebrating the United Nations International Day of Sign Languages in their very own way. To mark the occasion the team have prepared, recorded and released 20 of Celine’s songs in American Sign Language (ASL.)

Featuring Deaf performer Angela “AV” Vilavong, the ASL videos translate the full soundtrack of the documentary ‘I Am: Celine Dion’ and are all available for viewing on Celine Dion’s YouTube channel.

Irene Taylor, who directed both the documentary and the ASL videos shared online;

“It is truly my dream to create an entire soundtrack in sign language. I grew up using ASL in my family and from a young age I learned music goes beyond sound. I hope the world can experience the music of Redi Hasa and Celine Dion in a new way, with AV Vilavong’s precious artistry.”

Deaf music lover from Detroit, Sam Lloyd shared their reaction to the news with me;

“I am so so thrilled to see Celine Dion has released music videos in my first language! I adore her songs and I feel honoured that she has given my language a platform, it is so special. Thank you Celine!”

Celine Dion – who is the best selling Canadian recording artist and one of the best selling musical artists of all time stated:

“I’m so touched to have this special chance to share these incredible videos with you. It means the world to me to find new ways for us to connect with each other, in a way that’s open and inclusive. My hope is that these videos shine a light on the beauty of creating music for everyone, and that they fill your heart with joy, love, and a rhythm that brings us all closer together.”

Deaf people in the UK have also praised the news online, welcoming the spotlight placed upon American Sign Language and hoping that similar projects will also take place in the future involving British Sign Language.

You can view the ASL videos on Celine’s YouTube channel here.

Photography rights belong to @directorirenetaylor on Instagram.