Music is one of the most prominent forms of communication. It is used in every situation to set a tone, alter moods, change attitudes, and affect behavior. The right song can make or break the scene in a movie or set a romantic mood at a restaurant. Music is one of the most expressionistic forms of media known to society. As a result, music influences every aspect of society –with each generation forming a radically different opinion. The media, parents, and cynics want to blame music for violence in today's society, when in actuality they should look to themselves for the answer.
             As a result of recent events music has been criticized for corrupting the minds of today's youth. Rap is blamed for crimes and murders in metropolitan areas across the United Sates. Alternative Rock is blamed for containing satanic messages that drive the undercurrent of suicides and occult followings. The genre known as "Pop" is criticized for the breakout of sexual awakenings at younger ages. Despite the genre of music, the media will find a way to blame music for the problems with today's younger society.
             Specifically, Rap artists are continually blamed for crimes. In 1988, rapper Ice-T interred media scrutiny as a result of a song entitled "Cop Killa". Upon its release several accused "cop killers" cited this song for their reasoning. However, should an artist be blamed for the actions of others, simply because of their art? No, each person can think for his or herself and should be held responsible accordingly. Ice-T did not commit the crime, so how can he be blamed for it? The police force suffered causalities before the song was released and no one blamed a musician for it then.
             A similar situation incurred with a band called Three Six Mafia. As a result of the song "Tear the Club Up" the group was banned from the majority of states. People claimed that whenever the group performed t...