Research: Censorship in music videos

Censorship is the act of altering words, statements or visuals in order to conform with and abide by the rules and laws of society. Censorship could be done in several ways which are, by editing,censoring, banning or restricting. This enables a safer viewing experience to the viewer and censorship allows a wider range of audiences from different age groups can enjoy and watch music videos.

Explicit content v.s. Lyrics

 Explicit content is the actual music video and visuals being censored. It is the visuals that the audience can see that can be offensive or not suitable to a younger audience.



Explicit lyrics however, is only the wording that could cause offensive to the audience. The words and phrases that are used by the artist/band that may be found offensive or just not suitable for a younger audience, only to mature and older audiences.

What gets censored in music videos:

• Violence

• Offensive language/Lyrics

• Nudity

• Sexual nature

• Homosexuality

• Religion

• Racism

• Race

• Drug abuse

• Controversy to the press (politics)

Other types of censorship...

• Culture
• Class
• True events
• Corrupt the young

Advantages:

• Protects children, as they are easily influenced and may copy.
• Protects emotional/physical reaction.
• Promotes a politically correct world.
• Prevents disrespect in individuals or community.
• Shields social morals.
• Restricts vulgarity and obscenity.
• Restricts violence as this may be easily imitated.

Disadvantages:

• Decrease in views.
• Artist is restricted.
• Freedom of speech is compromised.
• Restricts idea/creativity.
• Compromise entertainment.
• Create a 'hype' which may make people want to create a music video that is explicit.
• Control industry, there is no freedom.
• How to differentiate what's harmful? We live in a diverse society.
• Blocks legitimate criticism, e.g. Kanye West's "Diamonds from Sierra Leone".
• Individual taste.

Overall by researching into censorship its clear that this is a significant part in the production of a music video. This needs to be considered because this is how the public is protected which is why artist's should abide by this in order to not get any of their music video's or lyrics censored. The song I am planning to use may have some harmful lyrics but not too harsh also  I will not be making a music video which may have to be censored. Although, this bring controversy I would prefer to keep my music video suitable for all audiences.