ART? YEP.

The Grammy's went off without a hitch and I think everyone learned a little bit. We learned that a chubby pop icon and an angry white rapper can bring everyone together in peace and harmony, just like a bottle of Coke. We also learned that if you're out of circulation for at least 15 years and make a comeback album you'll be on stage thanking Mom by the end of the night. But the one important thing most failed to remember is that music is art. Controversy is a main ingredient in our culture. Why should art reflect any differently? You may say Eminem's music isn't art. Some would say Norman Rockwell's work isn't art either. In both cases those who would say that would be free to express their views even though you may not agree. What pisses me off is the way people react. Why is it that the public expects the arts and entertainment community to censor itself? If you object to it, don't bring it into your home. Don't push your individual ideals on the rest of us. Entertainment doesn't fuck kids up. Parents do. Turn the channel. Don't pay to see that movie or buy that CD. Walk past the gallery and put that book or magazine down. Don't bitch about Britney's boobs and continue to watch MTV. Who cares if she bought them. Those jiggling orbs aren't hurting you or your teeny-bopper daughter. If you let your 12-year-old dress like Britney, you're the asshole. Watching or listening to pop isn't going to transform your darling princess into a street whore. If you object to Eminem's lyrics but your kid loves the skinny cracker, accept it. Your kid may talk more shit because of it, but you should have taught them more respect and common sense. Don't blame your kid's lost morals on Britney, Eminem, or Marilyn Manson. Don't expect anyone in entertainment to be a role model any more than you would that weird guy at work. They're on a pedestal because we, the public, put them there. Some deserve that status because of their talent, yet they are just as human as you. We should all possess the common sense to see through the shit and shinola of the messages presented in art. If you can't accomplish that simple feat, shut the fuck up until you can.