"It's no mystery that you can turn on the radio and
hear people talking about gun violence, dealing drugs, trafficking
cocaine," he tells 47WTEV.
Smith wrote a letter to Clear Channel, asking for a "change in broadcast policy." He believes the songs often heard on 93.3FM aren't ones that uplift the community, and in fact, influence the disportionate number of blacks in prisons, on drugs and involved in homicides.
"You're a company that broadcasts black artists in a
negative light and white artists not in that negative light. Don't tell me
don't listen. Change your policy No. 1," he said.
In response, Clear Channel issued us the following
statement:
"The Beat FM 93.3 is a popular station in Jacksonville
that has a great relationship with the local community, playing music that our
listeners want while abiding by all government regulations as a responsible
broadcaster. We are a solid community partner, participating in many local
charitable events including the MLK Parade, local school health fairs, feed the
city with the Clara White Mission, MAD DADs pledge to help keep kids drug free,
as well as national campaigns with the United Negro College Fund and the
national mentoring Big Brothers Big Sisters.
Smith doesn't see it that way. He believes the more negative
messages played, the more executives unfairly profit. He says he's not giving
up any time soon.
i am so glad someone is finally speaking out about this! I am so tired of the way radio stations portray black people. I want my children to hear positive music by black artist, that inspire, motivate and encourage. This music promotes violence, sex, drug trafficking and degrading women!
ReplyDeleteso glad someone has the courage to speak out. We need to do better...
ReplyDelete