Did we make you uncomfortable with our problematic songs last week? Well buckle up, baby, because we’re doubling down this week. Let’s dig into the world of problematic musicians.
I doubt it took you more than a quick second for a problematic artist to pop into your mind. For Christina, she’s been weighing the issue of The Smiths’ crooning front man, Morrissey, for some time now. Thanks to a great article in Far Out Magazine by Jack Whatley, she has no qualms at all about calling Moz highly problematic. But she still, sadly, recognizes the musical greatness that was The Smiths, especially their 1985 hit, “The Boy With the Thorn in His Side.”
Christine WENT THERE and chose Michael Jackson’s 1979 track “Burn This Disco Out” from his mega-hit album Off the Wall. As a child, Christine loved his style, his dance moves, the way he eased on down the road… but as an adult, she recognizes that the Prince of Pop has been accused of some pretty horrific stuff. And it’s certainly colored her fond memories from her childhood.
So, dear reader/listener. Can we separate the art from the artist? We’ll let you decide. We’re too worried about getting canceled.
Stereothematica 