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Censorship in the Music Industry

 

            The First Amendment states, "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech." This law has not been followed through with, especially in the music industry. Religious/moral beliefs have a great impact on how a person feels about censorship in music. There have been many different arguments on the topic, however the question still remains if it should be censored or not. Censoring music will not change the way people feel about words, it will only prevent the words from being said. Therefore, music should not be censored.
             Music censorship is the term used to describe the act of editing, changing, or preventing the listener from hearing the music as the artist created it in order to either deny certain information, or shelter (kids, teens, etc.) from potential harmful material. Censoring music not only goes against the First Amendment, but also puts a limit on creativity. Kelly Sparrow in his article proclaims, "The criticism and banishment of certain music has been around for several centuries. The basis of much of this censorship stems from the fear of music the listener doesn't understand. Music censorship is much more prevalent now due to the ever changing moral standards of our society" (Part 1). Everyone has a different view on censorship, so opinions are biased, but everyone is entitled to their own opinion. This only supports why censorship is not necessary because of one word: freedom. The documentary "Pros and Cons of Censorship points out, "Censorship denies access to vital information. Freedom of speech is compromised; it prevents the free flows of ideas (in which) works against creativity"(pg. 2). .
             Constantly altering an artists song/work takes away from them and prevents them from expressing themselves. Also, the intended message can be taken the wrong way which is too much of a compromise.


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