President Dr. Irfaan Ali of Guyana has taken a firm stance against the promotion of violence through music lyrics, highlighting his concerns during the 46th regular meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) hosted by Guyana. In his address, President Ali emphasized the unique and vibrant culture of the Caribbean region, which he believes should not be tarnished by lyrics that foster violence.
Ali’s call for cultural preservation and promotion of positive messages through music came after performances at the summit’s opening ceremony. He advocated for the encouragement of lyrics that inspire positive thinking, actions, and behaviors, drawing on the legacy of icons like Bob Marley to underline his point. Ali’s comments reflect a broader concern about the influence of music on society, especially on the youth, and the role of leaders in guiding cultural expressions toward constructive and uplifting narratives.
The Guyanese leader’s remarks also touched on the controversial issue of banning performances by artists perceived to promote negative messages. He referenced a conversation with Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Keith Rowley about the backlash from restricting certain performers, citing the example of Jamaican dancehall artiste Kevon ‘Skeng’ Douglas, who was reportedly banned from performing in Guyana in June 2022 due to concerns over his lyrics.
The Guyanese leader’s remarks also touched on the controversial issue of banning performances by artists perceived to promote negative messages. He referenced a conversation with Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Keith Rowley about the backlash from restricting certain performers, citing the example of Jamaican dancehall artiste Kevon ‘Skeng’ Douglas, who was reportedly banned from performing in Guyana in June 2022 due to concerns over his lyrics.
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