Demeaning content found in popular songs

Credit: theperfectingchurch.org

Credit: theperfectingchurch.org

Malia Okoh, Reporter

Now more than ever, the crudeness of popular music has been revealed. Sexualization and objectification of women is present in almost every song.

However, these offenses sometimes go unnoticed

An indifference towards the demeaning of women in society, and especially in music, exists and thrives today.

Women’s Studies teacher Kimberly Lauzon said, “Music sometimes degrades women and creates insecurities with body image, and encourages the objectification of women. I’m sure there are positive songs out there but many do not promote self-worth in women.”

Usher’s “I Don’t Mind” romanticizes common, superficial things: sex and money. He sings, “I don’t mind if you dance on a pole, long as you coming home, girl, I don’t mind.” Basically what Usher implies is that though his partner is selling her body, it is permissible because she comes back to him at the end of each night. This song and many others spread unethical messages.

Though rap and hip-hop are most normally associated with offensive language in regards to women, these faults exist in most sects of the music industry.

Robin Thicke’s chart-topping hit “Blurred Lines” caught the attention of many, not only because of its success. The song consists of phrases rapists commonly say. “And that’s why I’m gon’ take you Good girl,” Thicke sings repetitively, “I know you want it.”

Thicke’s song glorifies rape and other sexual assaults but he saw it as a joke. In an interview with GQ magazine he said, “We tried to do everything that was taboo. Bestiality, drug injections, and everything that is completely derogatory towards women.

“Because all three of us are happily married with children, we were like, ‘We’re the perfect guys to make fun of this.’ People say, ‘Hey, do you think this is degrading to women?’ I’m like, ‘Of course it is. What a pleasure it is to degrade a woman. I’ve never gotten to do that before. I’ve always respected women.’”

Current music reflects societal opinions, which includes views on women’s worth. Because offensive ideas will always be present, it is important to recognize the messages music and media are spreading.

Sophomore Shailyn Wilson said, “It’s important that we realize when songs are offensive towards women because it relates to us. By listening to offensive songs, we condone negative messages and really hurt ourselves.”