In a message dated 01/11/2001 8:47:44 PM Pacific Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: << They also mentioned Eminem as an example of an artist who's lyrics can be construed as "hateful". I can't say I disagree with that statement. I know people on this list like his album, but the messages he's sending prevent me from ever listening to his music (I actually leave the room if it's played) and I encourage others to boycott it as well. I know we've done this subject to death in the past, but despite protestations of "oh, it's only song lyrics" is DOES have an effect on some people - Richard Ramirez for one (LA's Night-Stalker), who was a big fan of AC/DC's "satanic" lyrics. >> While cruising through the posts, this caught my eye. It stuck out because I just read this month's newsletter from my 11 year old's chorale group and I quote it here: Note: used without permission. (:-D >>>Music can have a profound and stirring effect on us. When your youngster becomes part of a musical experience wherein they are also participants, as in the Christmas Oratorio last weekend and our other holiday concerts, they become imprinted for life with the enchanting sense of what music can be in one's life. The same earth-shaking emotional experience can come out of music which is morally confusing and sinister. Only in the case of that kind of music the emotional effect can be devastating to a young mind. No matter how many times we say this we can never say it enough---be invested in what your children are listening to at all times. Music is not harmless--it has a power to create memories that sustain and heal or distract and destroy. Help your children make good decisions about the music they listen to day to day. I salute your power as parents in helping your children make good choices. Last weekend, and our other concerts this holiday season, were certainly examples of those lasting choices ... Thank you." === And I believe that this is true. I don't think it is not synonymous in my book with "censorship" but rather "read/listen and connect." I think that a good deal of the public wants things labeled or censored simply because it's the easiest thing to do. It takes away the responsibility of acting as Hell does and reacting to Eminem's music. It makes it easier for me as a parent, because then I don't have to get THAT involved with my kids and can spend more time napping or reading or concocting Taylor's Ham recipes. It's an old debate, that's for sure. MG
