Should artistes and members of the media automatically consider themselves role models—and be responsible for behaving as such? Does great influence really come with great responsibility? This is the Broadcasting Commission’s take on an issue that is as interesting as it is hotly-debated.
Artistes, as we have already discussed, can have a huge influence on their listeners, as we have previously discussed. And, in the rapidly changing world we live in, it’s no longer just about the music. The proliferation in use of social media means that as soon as a DJ, musician, celebrity, or member of the media makes a misstep, everyone knows about it seconds after it has happened.
Studies have shown that celebrities are extraordinarily influential people. We read about them. We wear what they wear. Whatever they say or sing today becomes tomorrow’s catchphrase. If it is, therefore, that musicians/media personnel operate within the public space, can the public therefore hold them accountable for any questionable lyrical content or behaviour? Should their influence come with responsibility?
Many persons would answer in the affirmative. They’d say that, because young children are especially susceptible to an artiste’s influence, that the artiste should be conscious of his behaviour on and off the stage. And they’d say that because many of these artistes have children themselves, they should be aware of the impact they are having on the children of their fans—some of whom may be their fans as well.
Others, on the other hand, might say that artistes and celebrities are human beings just like us—and are therefore not perfect. They’d say that it is the artiste’s choice to decide whether he or she wishes to become a role model, as it is such an enormous responsibility.
The Broadcasting Commission, however, works within the realms of the broadcasting law. We therefore believe that artistes and media personnel are free to present themselves in whichever way that they choose, and to produce music on whatever topic they choose. We believe, however, that when it comes to producing music (and programming) for public consumption on the television, radio and on cable—electronic media that is easily accessible by all—that artistes, media personnel and licensees do have a responsibility to ensure that content is fit for airplay. And we believe that it’s not just a duty that’s bound by law—it’s a duty that’s bound by one’s respect for one’s country and its people.
This is why we produced “Sound Off!” – our new series aimed at interviewing popular artistes on serious questions relevant to the electronic media. We believe that artistes owe it to the public to give responses on serious topics relevant to the electronic media. In this way, we can ensure that their influence is used to achieve positive change.
Check out the latest episode of “Sound Off!” This week features dancehall artiste Konshens here.
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