Posts Tagged ‘the use of profanity in music’

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I was talking with my friend J last night over the phone who knew and worked closely with Michael Jackson, and she said something very profound to me that I even paused to reflect and absorb! She said as big and powerful as Michael Jackson was as an entertainer and media icon, he never used profanity in his records to achieve his statue. That was a WOW statement because as I consciously knew this… it was clearly something I, and I’m sure many people have taken for granted. We don’t think about it because Michael’s music was ‘complete’ without the use of profanity!

He crossed genre’s and bridged generations…

I’ve been a fan of Michael Jackson as long as I can remember, and now when my niece who’s 4 years old sits in the back seat of the car and demands his Greatest Hits CD to go into the player, and sings many of the songs word for word… obviously indicates the significance of Michael’s music and how he influenced the world across genres and generations. It is no secret Michael Jackson will always have an impact on the lives of people who simply love music and honor his legacy.

But Michael’s no rapper!

Some may argue that Michael wasn’t a rapper, and there’s a difference in comparison to the use of profanity. I would assume the goal of a rapper is to connect with their audience and influence their listening experience… and with that… there is no difference!

Please don’t take this as my personal disapproval of the expression of music because I respect it as a music collector, therefore my library is full of various titles. We all know profanity sells… but for how long? As an artist, does your longevity matter? Do you find performance limitations matter?

Michael Jackson isn’t the only one…

Along with Michael Jackson, there are several artists whose music is timeless without the use of profanity. I’ll use rap music as an instance: Rappers Delight by Sugarhill Gang. How many times seriously will you not jump out of your seat and head for the dance floor when that song comes on? And how many of you sing along and know every word while bobbin and noddin your heads? You know that’s a jam and your children’s children will listen to that song! Summertime by DJ Jazzy Jeff and The Fresh Prince is another one! Timeless! The list goes on in other genres as well!

I understand as a producer of music and an avid music lover that profanity may be necessary to market to a particular audience, but it’s obvious…  it’s not necessary to connect with the world. Will there ever be another Michael Jackson? Is there even anybody on deck to possibly wear the crown?

Although I didn’t know Michael Jackson personally, the conversation I had with J and hearing her endearing and personal encounters of him was enlightening and gave me more of connection to him. So I ask you, how motivating, inspiring and engaging is it to know the ‘King of Music’ never used profanity in his songs?

Your thoughts?