MUSIC CENSORSHIP

Music Censorship

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Music Censorship

I. Introduction

The topic of music censorship always remains controversial, many people are of view that it should not be censored, while others argue it should be. The supporter of music censorship affirmed that it must be censored so people can hear music devoid of controversial lyrics. However, opponents asserted that people have the liberty to speak, rhyme, rap or sing freely and nobody has the rights to stop them.

II. What is Music Censorship?

Music Censorship is the restriction practice to music mainly because of religious, military, political and moral reasons. The range of music censorship can be varied from governmental or legal prohibitions to private or voluntary content removal such as, radio edit - exclusion of lyrics, artists ban, or restricted cover album artwork due to religious, racial and moral issues.

A. What are the Laws?

1. Past

In past, there were strict laws and music was decidedly censored. In mid 1950s, radio stations were not allowed to play songs with dirty lyrics and termed it as “black” music. Similarly, the year 1956 was termed as a year for censoring music from radio, as ABC radio was censored because of the prostitution theme use in Billie Holiday's song. Consequently, in 1957, Supreme Court ruled that all songs will be screened before their broadcast by the review committee. Later on, in 1973, Supreme Court gave the powers to local communities to set their own standards of censorship (Sean, 2010).

The Federal Communications Commission under the Telecommunications Act of 1996 necessitates to issue instructions for the labeling of mature, violent or sexual; likewise, the Louisiana house bill 1236 prevent the music sale which is harmful to minors, are the example of music censorship in the past.

2. Present

There are no music censorship laws in the present era. However, the labeling of strong racial and language views or harmful content is on the CDs, album, record, tape and cassette. The first amendment keeps the government away from controlling the media, but it does not apply to religious groups and community.

B. Controversies

Music censorship is always and stills the topic of controversy, as it is not just a matter of constitutionality and legality but also referred to personal and morality preferences.

1. Freedom of Speech

Music censorship actually violates the right of speech freedom because each individual has the select what type of music or content they like to listen. Music is a way of expression, and once you permitted the government to censor someone's views, they will also get the power to control your views. In a broader context, it diminishes our democracy and rights.

2. Censorship Organizations

Censorship organizations include Parents' Music Resource Center (PMRC) who is responsible to label and censor albums, and company like Wal-Mart, MTV and radio stations. Others include Broadcast Music, Inc., The American Society of Composers, The Society of Composers, International organization fighting music piracy and many others are responsible to control musical work and protect right of musicians by promoting adequate copyright laws ...