Depressing Music?

Is music to blame for depression and violence?

Like movies, Tv shows and games, music is being used to explain away why people are doing things they shouldn't be.

Whenever a kid goes around killing people, generally it's believed it's because their favourite band told them to or that they're listening to music with subliminal messages. But where's the proof?

Also, recently My Chemical Romance were used as scapegoats to explain why a young teen committed suicide, which I believe was because the parents of this girl didn't want to admit that they missed the signs of depression. I'm not saying they're the ones in the wrong, but they certainly can't blame My Chemical Romance or any other rock band.

It's my opinion that, more often than not, rock bands can help people who are having difficulties in their life because they are showing them they aren't alone and that if they can overcome their issues, so can everyone else.

I understand the need to blame something or someone when you lose a loved one, but it must be from the right source.

I'm sure this young girl felt life was just too difficult and she probably felt alone. Because she listened to My Chemical Romance, does not mean she was influenced by the lyrics in their songs. If anything, they probably held her back from doing it sooner, and it was a completely different reason that pushed her in the end, such as a fight with her parents, bullying at school, etc.

These are just my opinions though. I'd love to hear yours....

I'd say music can definitely influence people. Many times sad songs have made me sad and happy songs have made me happy. But convincing me to do things, not so much. I could imagine if someone was seriously considering killing themselves, and listening to sad music, that could push them over the edge. Or if someone was hitting someone else, an angry song could make them hit harder and more often. But I'd say the chances of music taking an ordinary kid and turning him into a monster, or any other radical personality change, is ridiculous.

I agree with Mai I normally listen to music when I'm down and it always helps me to deal with the issue!

EidonOfTheFist wrote:

I'd say music can definitely influence people. Many times sad songs have made me sad and happy songs have made me happy. But convincing me to do things, not so much. I could imagine if someone was seriously considering killing themselves, and listening to sad music, that could push them over the edge. Or if someone was hitting someone else, an angry song could make them hit harder and more often. But I'd say the chances of music taking an ordinary kid and turning him into a monster, or any other radical personality change, is ridiculous.

I totally agree with you. Music is like amplifier in my view.