By Kelsey Bisson
Though it may not seem a prevalent problem on campus today, domestic violence is a rampant dilemma that affects all ages and body types, and whether you realize it or not, is heavily reflected in our changing music culture. Domestic violence is often overlooked because some music portrays it as acceptable.
One rap song titled “Domestic Violence” by RZA is an example of good old fashioned misogyny. He says, “Get the f*** out of my house. You don't cook, you don't clean, or press my jeans. You don't scrub or wash clothes.” Some fans may find this music appealing, but luckily it is not at the top of the charts. So why does all of this matter? These are just words, right? Carl Bell, a prominent psychiatrist from Chicago, explains that some fans of musicians soak up the negativity of a song and believe it is acceptable and even expected to treat women poorly because they hear and see these representations so frequently. Unfortunately, this person can grow up with an ingrained sense of disrespect for women. If songs have this much power over a person’s attitude, wouldn’t it be great if they had a positive message towards the treatment of women?
There are some popular songs that are starting to show the evolution of our culture to one that respects women more than in the past. “Face Down” by Red Jumpsuit Apparatus most clearly identifies a problem not uncommon in unhealthy relationships: physical abuse. The band directly addresses this in their chorus when they sing, “Do you feel like a man when you push her around? Do you feel better now as she falls to the ground?” They take an accusatory stance towards boys and men who physically hurt their girlfriends. This song was one of the first songs in which men sang out against other men hurting women, and helps raise consciousness about the “uncoolness” of abusive relationships.
Are there still many derogatory and violent representations of women in music? Of course. In fact, one could argue that many songs form a vicious, infinite cycle of disrespect towards women because they produce misogynists who in turn create music that portrays women in negative ways. However, many musicians today have included various lines that indicate they respect women, which is a far cry from RZA’s “Domestic Violence.” For example, David Guetta explains in “Sexy Bitch,” “She's nothing like a girl you've ever seen before…I'm trying to find the words to describe this girl without being disrespectful.” Ironically, the title of the song does not convey a respectful tone, thus indicating musicians are not ready to fully sacrifice their objectifying lyrics quite yet. Music is currently developing to the point where components of the lyrics reveal respect while others are reminiscent of derogatory songs. In “Rock Your Body,” Justin Timberlake claims he doesn’t mean, “no disrespect, I don’t mean no harm” but later in the song he vows to “have you naked by the end of this song.” He still manages to objectify women while seemingly respecting them simultaneously. In essence, the song does not convey a message of respect. It is powerful that men sing these songs because they help influence their male listeners.
Legally, women have come a long way with regard to domestic violence. It is even considered a serious offense today, unlike in the past. However, as portrayed in music, respect for women has a long way to come. What does this say about American culture- that we enjoy music that values women on the basis of cooking and cleaning ability, in addition to some sexual feats? One can only hope that someday music will reflect a culture that respects women as people, not as cheap objects to beat up when the mood strikes.
The Ohio State University, Autumn 2009