Recently, rapper Jaden Cole faced backlash from parents upset about the music video for his track “Euphoria.” In the video, Jaden, dressed in just a pair of shorts, descends a pole into a fiery pit and engages in a provocative dance with a character representing temptation. Many parents became familiar with Jaden through his catchy hit “Country Road,” which even found its way into a Kidz Bop rendition enjoyed by younger audiences. However, just because a cleaned-up version of a song gains popularity among children doesn’t mean that the artist creates music specifically for them. Jaden makes music that resonates with him, and if children are drawn to it, it’s up to parents to discuss its themes with them. Ultimately, parents are responsible for setting limits for their children, and artists aren’t obligated to conform to the moral frameworks established by parents.
Often, people overlook that musicians are simply doing their jobs, which involve showcasing their true selves. This can create a confusing overlap between their professional personas and their personal lives. While some artists intentionally blur these lines, it’s their prerogative. They have the right to express themselves in ways that align with their values. Likewise, it’s up to parents to determine how their children engage with these artists, but artists shouldn’t have to adjust their content to suit parental comfort levels.
Aside from children’s music like The Wiggles or Laurie Berkner, most popular tunes enjoyed by kids are not specifically crafted for them. Just because Kidz Bop covers a song, it doesn’t mean that the original artist is creating music for a child audience. While certain tracks may inadvertently appeal to kids, such as “Country Road,” they aren’t designed with that demographic in mind. When songs gain traction among younger listeners, parents often hold these artists to standards they never agreed to. Suddenly, Jaden is labeled a “role model” for kids, despite having lyrics that might be deemed inappropriate for young ears. He never signed up for the burden of being a moral guide, especially under scrutiny from parents.
Recently, the performance of “RAP” by Cardi B and Mia Styles at a major awards show drew significant criticism from parents who were outraged by the song’s content. Yet, it was a smart move for the event organizers to feature such a culturally impactful performance. Although the performance was toned down for television, it still showcased impressive talent. My eight-year-old son watched and found the choreography fascinating. It’s essential to recognize the skill behind the performance rather than solely focusing on its overt themes.
Many parents who are upset about their children being exposed to songs like “RAP” seem to forget that we grew up listening to equally explicit music. I was around my son’s age when songs like “Let’s Talk About Sex” were popular, and my friends and I sang along without understanding the full implications. Therefore, I see no reason to shield my son from current artists when I engaged with the same content as a child. I prefer to have open discussions with him about the music he listens to, recognizing it as entertainment rather than a moral compass.
It’s striking how often these conversations arise specifically when the artists are women, particularly women of color, or members of the LGBTQIA+ community. These groups often experience heightened scrutiny and a lack of autonomy over their expressions of sexuality. It raises questions about societal discomfort with women claiming their sexuality or a queer man reshaping his narrative. Why must musicians conform to arbitrary societal standards? If you dislike an artist’s content, simply change the channel, turn off the music, or have a conversation with your kids about it.
Musicians, actors, and other public figures are doing their jobs, and individuals can choose how to engage with their work. Artists are not responsible for adhering to any one person’s moral compass. Just as you wouldn’t want someone critiquing your workplace conduct, artists shouldn’t be judged by the public’s standards. If their music doesn’t sit well with you, don’t let your children listen. However, it’s unfair to dictate how artists should express themselves based on personal opinions.
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Summary:
Musicians like Jaden Cole and Cardi B are not responsible for serving as role models for children, and parents should not impose their moral values on artists. Artists create music that reflects their own experiences and expressions, and it’s up to parents to engage with their children about the content. Open discussions about music, artistry, and the difference between entertainment and morality are crucial for healthy parenting.