Violence In Music: The Industry, Cultures, Lyrics
Violence In Music: From The Industry To The Fans And Lyrics
Written By: Sid Jones
Violence in music is extremely crucial to talk about. And it’s a conversation that needs to happen sooner, rather than later. After the 5/8 RoxxxTV Weekly when Shaggy 2 Dope called in, there is no better time than now. But, this isn’t just to run my mouth (I never needed an excuse to do that) it’s to bring attention to those impacted by music. So, before we begin understand that this is simply an observation based on research and things I notice.
Before we begin, I would like to thank Dread Dead Oddities for sponsoring this article. Whether you want a choker, bracelet, patch or a new pin, this is your one stop shop for any lifestyle. And, they were kind enough to make me a custom back patch for my new vest. For that, I am truly grateful.
Now, let’s get into it. Again, this is in no way a bias opinion. Please read with an open mind and pay attention to the facts.
Punk Is Anger
When it comes to violence in music, people often confuse sarcasm for serious. And we’re gonna start with 500 Channels from Choking Victim. Because of the hook alone, people think it’s about supporting drug use. “And when there is no hope, I’ll smoke some crack, I’ll shoot some dope. “I sit and stare at my T.V. And in my ignorance,
I’ll be a slave and sycophant!”
However, people don’t understand that this song protests these things. Along with the people that partake. Does this mean this song created drug users? No. Could this have made them feel comfortable doing drugs by not understanding the message? Maybe. And for those unfamiliar, this is a punk band with a long life span, and a lasting history in music. To me, this song makes me think even lower of drug users and the system.
That’s just one example. In fact, I will say there is a lot of anger in bands like Choking Victim, The Bastard Suns, Against All Authority etc. And their songs reflect that. But, it isn’t necessarily directed at one individual. In fact, punk has a reputation of being anti-authority in general. Although, songs have been directed at politicians by name, there isn’t a death threat. It’s simply, “We’re not putting up with it and we will fight the system.”
Although, there are various songs about drinking, partying, and nihilistic philosophy. Some songs are about the working class, family values and so on.
For more on this, you can check out this interesting article from Science Daily: Violence In Music
Anarchy In The Venue
Now, one of the things brought up in the phone call, was the violence at shows. Now, this is true. There is a lot of violence at punk shows. I’ve seen people battered and beaten, assaulted and hospitalized. From a Dropkick Murphys show, to Warped Tour 2016 and shows in between. While this isn’t true for every show, my advice is avoid the pit.
I typed in Violence In Punk and this was the first video that popped up. A Black Flag show from 1980. Now, I will be at the Black Flag show in Detroit on August 20th. Perhaps, there will be an opportunity to show that not every punk show is violent. But, this is where the message I’m trying to get across gets lost. I don’t believe every show has an outbreak of violence.
Disco Is Out, Murder Is In
Upon further RESEARCH, I did come across an article from 2016. As it turns out, there was a gang of punks that, “associated themselves with the budding music scene wrestled for turf and street cred through despicable acts of public powerviolence.” And what you’re about to hear about, isn’t pretty. According to VICE, “Seminal bands such as The Germs, The Adolescents, and T.S.O.L. appear, but only to soundtrack La Mirada Punks brutal rampages, or worse, get bullied and bruised by the gang. In a way, the book (Disco’s Out, Murder’s In) feels like a lost chapter in the already-storied history of LA gangs that have been examined ever since the Prohibition era.”
“I really don’t understand why they won’t talk about it. I know [Henry] Rollins talked about being held up at gunpoint by some gangsters back in the day, and he detests violence. And I understand and respect that, as well. But the other guys who said, “That’s not what we were singing about”? These kids didn’t have the depth to understand what they really might be singing about. However, I just find it a real cop-out. Maybe it’s a byproduct of musician narcissism.”- Heath Mattioli
And this is considered “secret history.” Which, I find to be interesting. You’d think that a group of individuals committing these kind of acts would be more well known. And, I’ve never heard of La Mirada Punks, until I conducted research. What’s more, they’re not mentioned any biopics or documentaries I’ve seen. Why is that? Wel, perhaps the book uncovers that secret to this unheard violence in music.
With that said, there is a genre that seems to celebrate and glorify violence. So, to those that celebrate victory, you can either continue reading, or remain bias.
Hip Hop Glorifies Murder
Again, in conducting research into violence in music, I typed in violence in hip hop. And the results were not keyed in as “secret.” It’s overwhelming and I don’t even know where to begin. So, here’s this clip from Killer Mike on Real Time With Bill Mahr.
Now, I’m going to crash your party. Because, while he is right (for the most part) he failed to address violence in music. As stated earlier, inner cities are breeding grounds for gang activity. And even though you would love to think this was me admitting I’m wrong, you’re mistaken.
Violence In Music (above) : This was the first thing to pop up in images
And, if you recall, this is my favorite DMX song of all time. So, with that said I’m not against rap music. In fact, I rather enjoy violent music and lyrics. They make me laugh. But, that has nothing to do with my arguments. I am simply stating that there is more violence in the hip hop community than in other genres. And to further my point? I have something that is damning evidence.
This is an exact quote from The New Indian Express. And this is a study showing pop songs are just as violent as hip hop songs. Now, this is where my evidence lies. It’s not heavy metal, punk rock, jazz, or blues. Pop is compared to hip hop and rap music. So, where does the violence in music come into play? Well, this is the final nail in the coffin.
“Researchers at the University of Missouri found that pop and hip-hop are the most aggressive genres and that pop music’s friendly sound might mask its nefarious lyrics. Like rap and hip-hop, pop music too continues to promote profanity, violence and misogyny, which can potentially impact the behaviour and expectations of teenagers for their social lives, according to the study published in the journal Media Watch.”
And what’s not listed above? Punk and heavy metal.
Final Question
So, why does hip hop have a more violent scene? And we’re talking about today. Well, first it’s lack of accountability. See, today’s rappers don’t appear to be self aware. As stated in this RoxxxTV interview, there is ego in hip hop.
Yes, there is violence in heavy metal, punk and hip hop. However, the difference lies within the context. And I’m proving to the readers and viewers that I am being unbias. I see fans fight at various shows, whether it’s outside, or inside the venue. But, there’s a line and hip hop appears to cross that more so than ever. My concern isn’t in the fist fights, or mosh pits. It’s in the streets.
And I know you hear me talk about the violence from the cops. Which, to me is the greatest threat. Instead of leaving you with more facts, observations and research, I want you to listen to this song that we all need to take the time to listen to.
It’s us against them. And I want to help combat the violence in hip hop. But, before we can do that, we must have accountability. This issue lies within ignorant people. Small minds breed and stupidity thrives. And it doesn’t have to be that way. Not anymore.
BobRoxxx@RoxxxTv.com
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