Imagine being assaulted, trying to grieve and process your trauma, then logging on to any social media platform only to see your attacker’s face and music plastered everywhere. You now have constant reminders of your abuser and what they put you through. For the victims of abusive rappers, such as XXXtentacion, Tekashi 6ix9ine, Kodak Black and Chris Brown, this is their reality. But despite the sickening stories being released about them, these artists continuously top charts, have thousands of worshiping fans and bank accounts to prove that no one seems to care about who these artists really are. This should not sit well with you.
Everyone makes mistakes, it’s inevitable and part of life. The important part is if you genuinely learn from the mistake. Unfortunately, some people continue to showcase toxic behavior, allowing it to become integral to their character. However, beating pregnant women, and sexually assaulting a plethora of people are not the types of mistakes that should be so easily brushed off, as they so frequently are. In fact, they are not mistakes, they are crimes. Yet, we continuously condone and praise these artistes. We say, “separate the art form the artist”, which only further enables them and their abusive habits.
Public figures are often role models, especially to their fan base. Therefore, when we support artists who are violent with both their words and actions, we show others that their behavior is justifiable. Because of this, victims that have courageously come forward with their stories are shown, countless times, that they do not matter. We, as a society, seem to give celebrities a free pass simply because we enjoy their work. However, if these were our own friends or family, we would without a doubt hold them accountable for such behaviors.
To fans and other civilians, they are just artists. However, to their victims, they are abusive and a reminder of probably the worst memory they have. It’s time we hold problematic artists accountable. We have to stop accepting excuses for behavior that is inexcusable. We must collectively stop listening to their music and force them to change. It’s time we give the power back to the victims and stop silencing them for the sake of a catchy song.