Anglican priest unfazed by dark dancehall lyrics

Anglican priest Father Sean Major-Campbell has weighed in on the often-debated relationship between dancehall music and religious values.

Despite the provocative and sometimes controversial nature of dancehall lyrics, Major-Campbell, known for his humanitarian work and progressive approach to faith, remains unshaken in his perspective on the genre's impact on society.

Several dancehall artistes have been criticised for their lyrical content, some of which embraces occult practices and in some instances appear to be blasphemous in nature. Asked by this newspaper to comment on the issue, Major-Campbell offered a more nuanced view on the matter.

Major-Campbell said he believes that the influence of such music on individuals, particularly the youth, is often overstated.

"I still believe that those who wish to guide their children, schools, and society along certain values should lead by example and create environments that reinforce those values," he stated. He also observed that many people listen to dancehall without internalising its messages, saying, "Many hear it and choose not to feed on it."

Addressing the provocative nature of some dancehall lyrics, Major-Campbell suggested that artistes reflect the society they come from.

"Any artiste is a product of their environment," he explained. "Perhaps we in religious circles should ask ourselves why so many people are defying our teachings and values."

The conversation then shifted to the broader effects of controversial music on the moral and spiritual health of Jamaicans. Major-Campbell acknowledged that "whatever the mind feeds on will impact the general well-being of the listener." He also questioned: "Why are some individuals more susceptible to certain lyrical content than others?"

Despite the criticisms levelled against dancehall, Major-Campbell said he does not believe that engaging with provocative music necessarily leads to moral degradation.

"It's about recognising that what the mind consumes - whether positive or negative dancehall lyrics - will influence an individual's value system and behaviour," he reasoned. He said that not everyone who enjoys controversial content is beyond redemption.

When asked if entertainers have a moral obligation to avoid content that contradicts religious beliefs, Major-Campbell offered a pragmatic view.

"Are all entertainers religious in belief and practice? We don't live in a theocratic state. Entertainers should be free to express their art as long as they are within the law," he said. While he personally wishes for everyone to "reject what is not of God", he acknowledged that the interpretation of what is "of God" can be subjective.