Music has always had the power to strike fear into parents' hearts, which is why it is so attractive to young people. This hasn't changed since the days when the Beatles shocked the world. What has changed is that popular music lyrics have become much more explicit.
Heavy metal, shock-rock and rap have received the most criticism for lyrics with graphic references to drugs, sex, violence, and hate aimed at women, minorities, gays and lesbians.
Once relegated to the fringes, profanity- and hate-filled "rage" music has entered the mainstream of popular culture and has become the cash cow of the music industry. Artists like Eminem, Limp Bizkit and Slip Knot sell millions of records by giving direction to the anger and aggression in their mostly-male adolescent audiences.
The midriff-baring Christina Aguilera and Britney Spears may be marketed under a "girl power" guise—but what they are really selling to their mostly pre-pubescent audiences is adult sexuality.
To censor or not to censor? This is the thorny question parents face when their kids bring home music they find offensive. Should freedom of expression override house rules based on what parents feel are appropriate values for their kids?
As your kids get older, these questions should be discussed and debated openly. Discuss the lyrics of artists you find objectionable, and express your feelings about stereotyping and violence in music recordings and videos. Look for a consensus that is acceptable to both parents and kids.
