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Posted by Dave
Rap News Network
3/8/2005 10:00:14 AM
The Rev. Al Sharpton yesterday said executives from three corporations that own urban radio stations have agreed to discuss his call for a 90-day ban on rap artists who use violence to sell records.
The activist minister said he will meet with the honchos - including execs at Hot 97 owners Emmis Communications - within a week to come up with a united stance on violence. "Enough is enough," he said. "These radio stations can voluntarily make changes that would take the profit motive out of it."
The companies could not be reached for comment. Sharpton insisted he is not against free speech and wants to punish only rappers who incite gunfights to "cynically manipulate" the record-buying public. "Is it all right for them to be shooting each other?" asked Sharpton.
Sharpton's call is getting a lukewarm reception in the hip-hop community and the music industry.
"I understand what Al is trying to do, but you can't censor music," said hip-hop activist Charles Fisher.
Industry insiders say the Sharpton campaign is unlikely to gain much traction with radio stations and other media that give hip-hop stars much-needed exposure. "Their job is to play what people want to hear," said Dana Hall, an editor with Radio and Records.
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