Music Lyrics Blog

New York Bans the "N" Word - Censorship Strikes Again

New York City's city councilors have voted unanimously to ban the "N" word. The move is aimed at attacking racism in rap lyrics and music videos. The ban is only a symbolic one, however, as there is no penalty for those who do choose to use the word. This does bring to mind, how a ban can be a ban without a penalty attached?

Some say the move is meant to enlighten the African-American youth that a term that they use casually as a term of endearment is actually self-denigrating. The mouth of Michael Richards and the beginning of Black History Month seem to have sparked the movement across the country. Comedian Chris Rock and actor Jamie Foxx say they have no intentions on heeding the ban, however.

It remains to be seen whether any black rap artists will, in fact, take the ban seriously or not. Banned lyrics have been a part of the music industry for decades and usually tends to generate more interest for the lyrics than it is a deterrent. Banning the "N" word may be a grand, symbolic gesture for some, but for most others it will be a lame attempt to solve a problem that needs a better fix than a blustery ban with no consequences.

posted by Muse Dog @ 5:59 PM