by Brian Henley

Created on: October 24, 2008

This is one of the easiest topics I have voiced my opinion on - and actually consider this response more simple fact than opinion. Censorship is censorship. Phrase it any way you choose, you cannot alter the motive behind it. Artists have the right to express themselves through whatever means they feel best relay their message. Merchants have the right to sell that artists work if they choose, or a censored version (like Walmart) as an alternative. But consumers are the end all to what sells. A true artists will not change their vision based on sales, but you can change what you listen to by responsible consumerism. Or, in layman's terms, if you don't like it, don't buy it.

I find it extremely frustrating that so many people would force artists to become "marketable". Once we allow ourselves to dictate how art is presented, we enter a dangerous world. Please remember the definition of freedom the next time you contemplate censorship. Webster's defines freedom as "1: the quality or state of being free: as a: the absence of necessity, coercion, or constraint in choice or action" How this simple definition can become open for debate is preposterous.

While I believe this applies to artistry of all types, where the music industry is concerned, this is one of the most prolific sources of diversity. As I mentioned earlier, many artist already create their own censored version of their album for those who might take offense with the original lyrics. For those artists that do not offer this alternative, there exist and fairly unknown doctrine of law that allows consumers to not purchase that album. While a huge number of merchants may take offense that I have shared that information, I do believe in freedom of choice and wish to share this benefit of being American with you. There are absolutely no laws in existence that contractually obligate consumers to purchase an album simply based on possessing knowledge of its existence. I actually flaunt this right by regularly listening to music before I purchase it. This research has transformed me into a knowledgeable and informed buyer.

I have 3 young nephews and without hesitation will remove from their possession any music that I find inappropriate for their age. I also would love if this were not necessary, but with freedom comes responsibility. I do not possess a fear of taking responsibility for what influences my nephews. If my love for them creates a disparity between being an uncle and a best friend, I have already chosen the former. If everyone else felt the same, censorship would not be a topic for discussion.

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