Alice Valentine

I’ve heard many people make the statement that dancehall music has a negative effect on youths. What exactly is meant by this? Dancehall has a negative effect on youth’s self esteem; on their school work? As it relates to violence?

Whatever the theory, I am here to dispel this ridiculous accusation on this very diverse and energetic genre.

Dancehall music sprung for a merge of Dub and Reggae and gained popularity in the 1970’s (2010) (Retrieved March 15, 2012, from http://www.dubandreggae.com/dancehall/history-of-dancehall-music.) People worldwide enjoy dancehall music as it is a very popular genre. Dancehall music is filled with lyrics of partying, love making and the occasional “lyrical murdering” of artists. In other words, just as with most music genres, dancehall is full of energy and versatility and the lyrics comprise of people’s day to day activities. They explain the simple actions people use to “pass time” and escape boredom.

To say that Dancehall music has negative effects on youths is to imply that dancehall music is only and can only be negative. Seen as though there are ‘positive’ dancehall songs available for purchase, download and airplay, I don’t see how this statement is accurate. Now I’m not sure about anyone else but I have never heard of a criminal being arrested and during their confession they stated that “A Vybz Kartel song made me go out and kill people.” Or that a dancehall song “made me to do it.” Bottom line is music is an expression of the heart and mind and cannot be held responsible for any actions of the listener.