Explicit lyrics: What are they, when do you label them and why are they controversial?

Explicit lyrics are lyrics that contain explicit content, such as profanity, sexual references, or violence. The term "explicit" is often used interchangeably with the term "adult" or "mature".

Some common examples of explicit content in lyrics include:

• Profanity
• Sexual references
• Violence
• Drug use
• Alcohol use
• Suicidal or self-harming thoughts

Explicit lyrics are not always easy to define, as what is considered explicit can vary from person to person. However, there are some general guidelines that can be used to determine whether or not a lyric is explicit. The definition of explicit lyrics can also vary depending on the country or region. In the United States, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) defines explicit lyrics as those that contain "language or content that is considered to be indecent, profane, or obscene."

The RIAA's Guidelines for Determining Explicit Lyrics

The Recording Industry Association of America® (RIAA) has developed a set of guidelines for determining whether or not a sound recording contains explicit lyrics. We have included the exact guidelines of the RIAA at the end of this article. These guidelines include:

• The context in which the material is used. For example, a word or phrase that might be considered explicit in one context might not be considered explicit in another context.
• The artist's audience. The RIAA considers the age and maturity level of the artist's target audience when making a determination about whether or not a sound recording contains explicit lyrics.
• The sensitivity and common sense of the determination. The RIAA recognizes that there is no one-size-fits-all definition of explicit lyrics, and that the determination of whether or not a sound recording contains explicit lyrics should be made on a case-by-case basis.

Edited Versions of Songs

The RIAA also recommends that artists create edited versions of their songs that do not contain explicit lyrics. Edited versions are not required, but they can be a way for artists to make their music more accessible to a wider audience.

The RIAA's definition and guidelines for explicit lyrics provide a framework for understanding the issue of explicit lyrics in music. The guidelines are based on a number of factors, including the context in which the material is used, the artist's audience, and the sensitivity and common sense of the determination. The RIAA also recommends that artists create edited versions of their songs that do not contain explicit lyrics.

The potential benefits of explicit lyrics

Explicit lyrics can be found in all genres of music, but they are more common in some genres than others. For example, rap and hip hop are two genres that are often associated with explicit lyrics.

There are a number of reasons why artists might choose to use explicit lyrics in their music. Some artists use them to express themselves in an authentic voice that is more raw and unfiltered. Others use them to shock or offend listeners. Still others use them to simply make their music more interesting or catchy.

Not all artists who use explicit lyrics are doing so to be offensive or harmful. In many cases, artists use explicit lyrics to express themselves in an authentic way and to connect with their audience on a deeper level.

 In hip hop, explicit lyrics can be used to express the frustrations of inner city struggle.

Explicit Lyrics Can Give a Voice to the Voiceless

Explicit lyrics can give an authentic voice to music in a number of ways. For example, in hip hop, explicit lyrics can be used to express the frustrations of inner city struggle. Profanity is often used in hip hop to convey a sense of urgency or anger, and to reflect the reality of life in some inner cities.

In other genres, explicit lyrics can be used to express other types of experiences. For example, in country music, explicit lyrics can be used to express the pain of heartbreak or loss. In rock music, explicit lyrics can be used to express anger or rebellion.

The use of explicit lyrics can be a way for artists to connect with their audience on a deeper level. When artists use explicit language that is relevant to their audience's experiences, it can help to create a sense of authenticity and relatability.

Here are some other genres and artists that have used explicit lyrics to give an authentic voice to their music:

• Punk rock: Punk rock is a genre that is often associated with explicit lyrics. This is because punk rock often deals with themes of anger, rebellion, and social commentary. Some examples of punk rock artists who have used explicit lyrics include The Sex Pistols, The Clash, and Green Day.
• Heavy metal: Heavy metal is another genre that is often associated with explicit lyrics. This is because heavy metal often deals with themes of violence, aggression, and dark emotions. Some examples of heavy metal artists who have used explicit lyrics include Metallica, Slayer, and Black Sabbath.
• Rap: Rap is a genre that is known for its use of explicit lyrics. This is because rap often deals with themes of street life, violence, and sex. Some examples of rap artists who have used explicit lyrics include NWA, Tupac Shakur, and Eminem.

The potential drawbacks of explicit lyrics

Example of the use of a Parental Advisory Label (PAL)
 used on "The Untold Melodies" a afro-pop album
released by Gambian artist A'Tic Silva

The use of explicit lyrics in music has been a controversial topic for many years. Some people believe that explicit lyrics are harmful to children and should be avoided. Others believe that explicit lyrics are a form of artistic expression and should be allowed.

There is no easy answer to the question of whether or not explicit lyrics are harmful. However, it is important to be aware of the potential impact of explicit lyrics on listeners, especially young listeners.

Whether or not explicit lyrics are appropriate for you depends on your personal preferences. If you are offended by explicit content, then you should avoid listening to music that contains it. If you are concerned about the explicit content in a song, you can always listen to the song before you allow your child to listen to it. You can also use parental controls to block explicit content on streaming services.

Whether or not explicit lyrics are appropriate for you depends on your personal preferences. If you are offended by explicit content, then you should avoid listening to music that contains it. However, if you are not offended by explicit content, then you may enjoy listening to music that contains it.

It up to you to decide

Explicit lyrics are not necessarily bad. They can be used to express important messages or to create powerful music. However, it is also important to be aware of the content of the music you are listening to, so that you can make informed decisions about what you are comfortable with.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to listen to music with explicit lyrics is a personal one. However, it is important to be aware of the potential impact of explicit lyrics on listeners before making a decision.

RIAA Guidelines 

Parental Advisory Label (PAL)

Source: Recording Industry Association of America®. (2006, October 23). PAL STANDARDS. Retrieved from https://www.riaa.com/resources-learning/pal-standards/

This version of the Standards in its entirety is effective as of October 23, 2006, and supersedes all prior versions. The RIAA reserves the right to modify these Standards at any time with or without notice, and encourages Participants to review the Standards frequently to ensure that Participants are aware of any modifications.

The Standards include the following guidelines and requirements:

• Uniform Guidelines for Determining Whether a Sound Recording Should Use a PAL Mark

• Guidelines and Requirements Regarding Use of a Mark on Physical Products

• Guidelines and Requirements Regarding PAL Notices in Consumer Advertisements

• Guidelines and Requirements Regarding PAL Notices in Digital Distribution

It is obviously not possible to define each individual situation in which a record label or artist should determine that a sound recording contains PAL Content. In making such a determination, however, record labels and artists should consider:

1. That contemporary cultural morals and standards should be used in determining whether parents or guardians would find the sound recording suitable for children;
2. The context in which the material is used, as 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 a minimal part of the lyrics;
3. The context of the artist performing the material, as well as the expectations of the artist’s audience;
4. That lyrics are often susceptible to varying interpretations, and that words can have different meanings and should not be viewed in isolation from the music that accompanies them (i.e., lyrics when accompanied by loud and raucous music can be perceived differently than the same lyrics when accompanied by soft and soothing music);
5. That such a determination requires sensitivity and common sense, and that context, frequency, and emphasis are obviously important; isolated or unintelligible references to certain material might be insufficient to warrant labeling a particular sound recording as containing PAL Content;
6. That these Standards apply to the case of a single track commercially released as well as to full albums (whether released in the form of a CD, cassette or any other configuration); and
7. That a sound recording may contain strong language or depictions of violence, sex, or substance abuse, yet due to other factors involved, may not merit a designation as containing PAL Content.
8. That these Standards apply to the case of a single track commercially released as well as to full albums (whether released in the form of a CD, vinyl record, or any other physical or digital format); and
9. That a sound recording may contain strong language or depictions of violence, sex, or substance abuse, yet due to other factors involved, may not merit a designation as containing PAL Content.

The record label or artist determination that a sound recording contains PAL Content shall affect the marketing, sale, and distribution of such sound recording, as described in greater detail throughout these Standards. For purposes of clarification, only the applicable record label or artist shall determine whether any particular sound recording contains PAL Content, and all other Participants shall abide by the applicable record label or artist’s determination.

Edited Versions

It is recommended, although not required, that when practicable the applicable record label or artist create an edited version of a PAL Content sound recording that does not include all of the same content contained in the original, and that no longer merits a PAL Notice. Such version is referred to herein as the “Edited Version.” An Edited Version need not remove all potentially objectionable content from the sound recording. For example, some such content might be retained in order not to compromise artistic expression.