1. Whether, in light of comtemporary cultural morals and standards and the choices and views of individual parents, the recording might be one that parents may not want their child to listen to.
2. Context is obviously important: some words, phrases, sounds or descriptions might be offensive to parents if spotlighted or emphasized, but might not offend if merely part of the background or not a meaningful part of the lyrics.
3. The context of the artist performing the material, as well as the expectations of the artist's audience, is also important.
4. Lyrics are often susceptible to varying interpretations. Words can have different meanings. Also, words cannot be viewed in isolation from the music that accompanies them. Lyrics when accompained by loud and raucous music can be perceived differently than the same lyrics when accompanied by soft and soothing music.
5. Labeling is not a science; it requires sensitivity and common sense. Context, frequency, and emphasis are obviously important; isolared or unintelligible references to certain material might be insufficient to warrant application of the label.
6. A label may still be warranted on a recording after profanity is removed. Please keep in mind that "depictions of violence, sex, or substance abuse" must also be considered when make a determination regarding the application of the Parental Advisory label.
7. These guidelines apply to the case of a single track commercially released as well as to full albums.
(Jansen 111)
Today, the potency of the PMRC has dramatically declined. Rap and heavy metal music have gradually entered mainstream America tastes, making their repression harder. The PMRC is still kicking but no longer with the same conviction. Despite recent agreements with the American Medical Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the National PTA, law enforcement agencies as well as numerous churches and schools nationwide, and an aborted attempt in January 1998 at changing its name from the Parents' to the Partners with the Music Resource Center, its days are gone. (Szatmary) As explained in a recent personal letter, "due to limited funding and staff, it can no longer afford to publish its newsletter. It has accordingly altered its goals, claiming today to serve as a resource center to educate and promote public awareness of the positive (my emphasis) long term effects of music on health, analytical and creative thinking and self-esteem." (Gore, Mary 255) The PMRC, despite its fall, had accomplished their initial goal of a universal Parental Advisory sticker. |
