Recently, popular rapper Lil Nas X faced backlash from parents upset about the provocative visuals in his music video for “Montero (Call Me By Your Name).” In this video, he slides down a stripper pole into Hell and gives Satan a lap dance, which understandably stirred controversy. Many know him from his catchy hit “Old Town Road,” which became a Kidz Bop favorite among young children. However, just because a sanitized version of a song becomes a hit with the under-10 crowd doesn’t mean the artist is creating music specifically for kids. Lil Nas X produces the art he chooses, and it’s up to parents to guide their children in understanding the content.
People often forget that musicians are essentially doing a job, albeit one that requires them to express their true selves. The line between their professional persona and personal identity can become blurred. It is their prerogative to decide how much of themselves they want to share through their work, and it’s our choice as parents how we introduce our kids to these artists. It is not the artists’ duty to conform to any specific moral standards that parents may wish to impose.
Unless we’re talking about children’s entertainers like The Wiggles, the majority of music kids enjoy isn’t intended for them. The misconception often arises when parents assume that because Kidz Bop covers a song, the original artist caters to children. This is far from the truth. While some songs like “Old Town Road” may resonate with younger audiences, they are not made solely for that demographic. When they do capture the interest of children, parents sometimes label these artists as role models, even if that was never the intention. Lil Nas X, for instance, is often dubbed a “role model” despite lyrics that are far from suitable for kids.
A few weeks ago, Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion delivered a sanitized rendition of their controversial song “WAP” during the Grammys, leaving many parents shocked that the performance was even aired. The Grammys capitalized on the cultural significance of the song, and while the performance was undeniably sexual, it also showcased their incredible talent as dancers. Watching it with my seven-year-old, I appreciated his admiration for their skill rather than being overly concerned about the performance’s content.
Many of the very same parents expressing outrage today likely enjoyed similar music in their youth. I was around my son’s age when songs like “I Wanna Sex You Up” and “Let’s Talk About Sex” were popular. I can’t help but see the parallels. Instead of shielding my child from these discussions, I prefer to engage him in conversations about the realities of musicianship and entertainment. We can listen to songs like “WAP” together, but I clarify that it’s not music meant for kids. I would never look to Megan Thee Stallion’s work as a moral guide for my first grader; it’s simply entertainment.
Interestingly, these moral discussions often arise predominantly when the artists are women—especially Black women—or members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Both groups face heightened scrutiny regarding their autonomy and expression. Why is it so troubling for some to see women of color embracing their sexuality or an openly gay artist rewriting the narrative about himself? Artists shouldn’t be confined to arbitrary boxes created by societal expectations. If you find certain content objectionable, the solution is simple: change the channel, skip the song, or discuss it with your children rather than demanding the artists conform to your preferences.
Celebrities are performing a job, and while audiences can choose how to interact with their work, artists have no obligation to align with the public’s moral compass. Just like you wouldn’t want someone critiquing your professional choices, musicians deserve the same respect. If you disapprove of their content, it’s up to you not to expose your kids to it, but it is unreasonable to dictate how artists express themselves based on personal beliefs.
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Summary:
Musicians should not be expected to serve as role models for children, as their work is often not intended for a young audience. Parents have the responsibility to guide their children regarding the content they consume. The outrage over artists like Lil Nas X, Cardi B, and Megan Thee Stallion often stems from their gender or sexual orientation, revealing a societal double standard. Instead of imposing moral judgments on these artists, parents should engage in open discussions with their children about the music they listen to.