NCJ Number
159929
Date Published
1996
Length
7 pages
Annotation
The lyrics and images contained in "gansta rap" performed predominantly by young blacks emulating gang members poisons the mind of inner-city youth and glamorizes and encourages crime, violence, vulgar language, and the abuse of women; therefore, the sale of obscene gansta rap music to minors should be banned.
Abstract
The proliferation of violence and unacceptable sexual messages in young people's music is due in large part to the record industry's avarice. Approximately $780 million worth of rap records were sold in 1993; more than half the purchasers were under 17 years of age and 50 percent were between 10 and 14 years of age. Lyrics in gangsta rap glorify violence and denigrate women. As a form of pornography, such music encourages youth to commit violent acts, use drugs, and abuse women through demeaning sex acts. The constant exposure of youth to negative images lowers their sensibilities toward violent behavior, making killing and abuse commonplace and acceptable. In addition to the proliferation of violent behavior, gangsta rap inculcates in youth false and hateful concepts about women. Even if a direct link cannot be made between gangsta rap and violence, parents and elected officials need to be seriously concerned about the music because it is obscene and sexist, is driven by racism and greed, and ultimately destroys community values. Banning the sale of gangsta rap to children is one action government can take to curb youth violence.