The Editor Sir:
Let me extend my appreciation for the vigorous debate put on by your columnist Ian Boyne and Kinglsey Stewart in Sunday's Gleaner. It was very interesting to read the issues which spark the debate, as both men
were passionate about their respective positions on the
matter. However, neither article explored the real issues that the Jamaican intellectual and the ordinary man on the street view as important and critical to the ever emerging culture of dancehall.
We need to look at who makes dancehall what it is, a rotten tree with the a stench of unbearable proportions. Dancehall is the only social event in the entire Jamaica that was not established and developed by any set of moral standards. Just take a look at the professions, there are certain standards that must be abided by. The doctors have standards to follow, the teachers, the lawyers. A dancehall artiste is elevated to great heights by his record of pronouncing badness, degrading women, burning fire on all those law-abiding citizens termed as informers and inciting violence against their own black brothers and sisters. It is the basic lack of standards that is to be blamed for the disgusting behaviour that is manifesting itself whenever we see performances from all those we call dancehall icons.
Don't get me wrong. I strongly believe that these individuals have a part to play in the development of this country, but I think as a nation we have allowed the moral fabric of our society to be eaten away like slice bread. However, let me congratulate those dancehall artistes that have staged their performances on the high standard set by so many distinguished Jamaicans over the years.
I am etc.,
CRAIG C. DAVIS
ccraig73@yahoo.com
