Heartbreakers and Homewreckers

“As in water face reflects face, so the heart of man reflects the man.” (Proverbs 27:19, ESV)

We can easily rebuff the crass speech and immoral lyrical compositions of any era or artists, but underneath that I wonder if our problem is with Elvis, Taylor, or ourselves?

1. Elvis Presley (1950s-1970s): Elvis’s provocative dance moves and rock-and-roll style ignited controversy. Yet, this may reflect societal fears of changing youth norms more than Elvis’s influence.
2. The Beatles (1960s): Skepticism toward The Beatles’ appearance and countercultural leanings might suggest resistance to change and traditional values rather than the band’s impact.
3. Madonna (1980s-1990s): Criticism of Madonna for pushing sexual and expressive boundaries raises the question: Is the discomfort with the artist or with broader societal issues around female autonomy and sexuality?
4. Ice-T (1980s-1990s): Ice-T was at the forefront of gangsta rap and sparked significant controversy, especially with his song “Cop Killer” with Body Count. It preceded ongoing debates about police brutality and free speech. It is possible this might reflect deeper discomforts with discussing systemic issues.
5. Eminem (late 1990s-2000s): Eminem’s graphic lyrics and controversial themes could be mirroring societal struggles with issues like mental health, domestic violence, and poverty.
6. Britney Spears (late 1990s-2000s): The scrutiny of Britney’s public persona might reflect difficulties with how society views young women in the public eye and the unrealistic expectations placed on them.
7. Lady Gaga (late 2000s-2010s): Concerns about Lady Gaga’s bold style and performances may stem from societal apprehensions about non-conformity and individualism.
8. Miley Cyrus (2010s): Public reactions to Miley Cyrus’s transformation might highlight issues with accepting personal evolution and the sexual agency of young women rather than her behavior itself.
9. Cardi B (2010s-2020s): Cardi B’s frankness about her past and assertive style raise questions about societal acceptance of women who own their stories.
10. Taylor Swift (2000s-2020s): Does the scrutiny of Taylor Swift’s lyrics and persona reflect societal challenges in dealing with narratives around women, relationships, and personal agency.

Perhaps it’s time we heed the advice of a modern American poet, “Check ourselves before we wreck ourselves.” Are our reactions to these artists based on their actual influence, or do they uncover deeper discomforts and challenges within our societal framework? Or perhaps more challenging, is there a need for parents to… first parent themselves?