And "sixty-six percent (66%) of 13-17 year olds believe that violence in music is partly responsible for violent crimes" [3] like the 1999 Columbine High School shootings. The teenagers involved in the shootings apparently had a fascination for rock singer, Marilyn Manson, whose lyrical themes include hatred, revenge, shooting and death. Teenagers, who listen to heavy metal or rock music, are attracted because they can connect the lyrics of these songs with their own troubled feelings. .
"Gangsta rap" music is another type of music that has been very influential over the years. Its lyrics often involve references to street gangs, gunplay, sex, drugs and violence, which leads to the violent behaviour of youths. Studies have shown that exposure to rap music "tends to lead to a higher degree of acceptance of the use of violence."[4] We can also see in the media that some rap artists are being arrested for violent crimes in real life. Puff Daddy was charged for assault at a pub and recently, R. Kelly was arrested for having sex with a minor. Their celebrity status further glamorizes violent behaviors.
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The media can also be put on blame for this outburst of youth violence. This is because the media keeps exposing them to themes such as violence, drug abuse, sexual violence, murder and suicide, which may be heavily reinforced and normalized by the frequency of their portrayal. .
Parents play an important role in monitoring the types of music that their children are exposed to and which they purchase. Parental advisory labels should be put on materials that contain explicit lyrics or issues that are not suitable for youths. Performers should also be more sensitive towards issues that they convey through their music as youths are easily influenced.
MUSIC VIDEOS.
We are stepping into the Music Television (MTV) generation. MTV is a unique fusion of music and visual images that is becoming highly popular among teenagers.