In class, we were assigned a paper about the state of American women in 2011, and to write this paper we had to bring in evidence of our argument from our lives. I can safely assume, I think, that a pretty large portion of the class used today's music as proof that today's women still have reason for "discontent, rebellion, and revolution," as Susan B. Anthony said.
I found it funny, then, that after I mentioned rap music in my paper I came across a satirical article about how to write a rap song. This witty article makes fun of the lack of meaning and intellect in most of today's rap. The article jokes that the Guiness World Record for spending time to write rap lyrics is 45 minutes - an exaggerated statement pointing out the insincere and pointless nature of rap lyrics. The article continues on to say that rap songs tell a story, usually "a precarious urban tale consisting of 'b--ches,' 'hoes,' pimped out rides, guns, the POE-lease, and of course lots and lots of BLING," in which "a contract, money,and bubble-booty women" will follow a string of tragic events in the rapper's life.
While this article is funny and entertaining, the satirical message behind it really hits home, and I think it fits well with our discussion about the state of American women today. Just about any type of music, not just rap, is degrading to women, including songs written by women themselves. And this is what kids start listening to at a relatively young age, putting ideas of male superiority into their heads. Want to know real source of sexism? The media. Anything, from music to political coverage, is to blame.
If you want a bit of funny but insightful reading, check out the article!
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