Joel Milian
12/14/12
Critique
# 4 (Chapter 9) “We’re Not Role Models
Critique:
In this chapter of The Hip Hop Wars, Tricia Rose
importantly notes how rap music negatively influences its listener’s
particularly younger audiences. She states, “This deflection takes place
through three oft-repeated phrases: (1) Were not role models; (2) Parents are
responsible for their own kids; and (3) If you don’t like what you see, turn it
off.” (188) Noting responses from rappers like 50 Cent and LL Cool J who say
that because they've personally experienced the topics and issues which their
music is centered on, they have the right to rap about it. Rose also discusses
how rappers such as Snoop Dogg, T.I. and Lil Kim have gotten into trouble with
the law and that act has gotten them more credibility and respect as members of
the rap game, and therefore more of an authentic vibe when compared to other
rappers. The controversy behind on how rap influences younger audiences
includes parents and their responsibility to monitor the things that their
children view on television. Networks like MTV and BET state that they do not
force anyone to view the content displayed on their channels because anyone can
merely “turn it off”. Because of this Rose once again raises another question
regarding those working parents who are unable to keep constant watch of their
children and the things they see on television because they are busy maintaining
their family by making money to pay the bills, buy groceries, etc. Clearly
whether it’s the Rappers, the Big-time Network stations, or the parents of the
younger audience; it is a blame game that will never be resolved unless we work
together to change the values and issues detailed in hip hop for the positive
benefit of everyone.
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