There have been many news articles which blame the rising trend in gun crime on rap music; claiming its graphic and violent images influence society, particularly young black males. Even politicians, such as David Blunkett have launched attacks on gangster rap, `condemning it as "appalling"' (BBC news.) But does rap music really promote violence? Or is this a way for ministers to pass the blame on the rising amounts of gun crimes in Britain today.

Firstly we need to define what rap music is. `Rap music is a form of rhyming lyrics, generally spoken rhythmically over musical instruments' (www.jahsonic.com.) Rap music often contains a negative attitude towards women with misogyny being a common topic of discussion. Rappers seem to boast about the number of women they have slept with and see this as a way to gain status and respect. Women are demeaned by rappers...