Essay, Research Paper: Music Censorship

What are some advantages and disadvantages of music censorship?
Many bills have been passed to stop explicit messages in music from getting out. Censorship limits the amount of lyrics that get out to the community about violence. (History of Music Censorship) It may also limit anything in music that a community might find offensive to its values or beliefs. The lyrics presented in some songs are not appropriate for young adults. Some say music censorship goes against the First Amendment. It stops artists from expressing how they may feel. The profit on albums often goes down because of censorship. Censorship constantly targets rap and hip hop, and they are usually hit the hardest. (Forms of Music Censorship)
What are some forms of music censorship?

By 1985 some censorship groups began to form, and during that time warning labels came to exist. (History of Music Censorship) Album covers that were explicit were either changed or banned. Many retail stores began to limit the sales of music that they found to be offensive. Radio shows such as WBLS and KACE will also ban songs that have to do with violence. In the 1960’s Kingsmen’s songs by the Rolling Stones were banned from the radio because of the sexual behavior presented in their songs. Some other forms of music censorship include parental advisory labels, banned covers or concerts, rating systems, and banned clothing. (Forms of Music Censorship)
What is the history behind music censorship?
Censorship has been around since the development of music. Throughout history pro-censorship groups, retailers, schools, parents, and legislators have found ways to censor music. (History of music censorship) Many artists have been sued because parents thought the music influenced their children to form certain acts. (Censorship in Music) We know of music censorship mainly because of the development of rock and roll during the 1950’s. By 1980’s censorship reached new dimensions. In 1992, the Erotic Bill law passed the “adult only” label on certain recordings. While people stand for music censorship, American Civil Rights Union fight to make them understand that musicians have First Amendment rights.
What makes Wal-Mart different from other stores?
Wal-Mart is the leading seller of pop music in the United States. They refuse the stock of music with explicit lyrics and artwork. Many rap and rock artists have cleaned up lyrics to meet Wal-Mart’s standards. Other major stores such as Blockbuster and Kmart have joined Wal-Mart’s procedures. John Mellencamp’s latest CD, “Mr. Happy-Go-Lucky”, has been censored to meet Wal-Mart’s criteria. Wal-Mart has found themselves listening more to their customers instead of the vendors. They see this “target marketing”, and not as “prior restaurant”. (Rolfe)
What are warning labels and how are they helpful?
Warning labels are put on certain products to show as potentially dangerous such as tobacco companies do. The Leiberman bill puts labels on all entertainment products. This isn’t considered a form of censorship, but a tool for parents to use to raise their children up to be good citizens. (Addicted to Moise) Some music is just not appropriate for minors to buy in the stores. Members of Congress have been working hard to keep warning labels in affect. McCain stated, “Parents need help, and our biggest responsibility is to our children.” They labeling will alert consumers first. For the labeling system, the music industry is the most problematic. (Addicted to Noise)
What are some arguments against gangsta rap and heavy metal?
Some of the music presented by artists today are said to be very explicit and degrading to people. A series of television ads have been designed to alert parents about the existence of obscene music. The ads also encourage people to speak out against the music in the communities. Delores Tucker, William Bennette, Sam Nunn, and Senator Joseph Lieberman all came together to attack obscene music. This group came together to try and stop the promotion and legitimization of drug use in the music markets. Some of the music was said to be blatantly pro-drug lyrics. MCA and Interscope records are also attacked for releasing misogynists, murderous, and hateful music. On music in general anything offensive to anyone should be removed completely. (Know your enemies)




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