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Iran Vows to Crack Down on 'Obscene' Rap Music

Officials will 'confront' musicians

By Colleen Barry,  Newser Staff

Posted Nov 30, 2007 5:21 AM CST

(Newser) – In its latest bid to protect traditional Islamic morality from encroaching Western influences, Iran announced it will crack down on rap music it considers "obscene." Rap music in Farsi focusing on social, political and sexual themes is growing increasingly popular on the black market. An official recently condemned rappers for using vulgar words. It's not clear if all rap is being targeted or only particular songs or musicians.

In Iran, artists need government permission to record an album or perform a concert. Although some songs are approved, many are created and circulated underground. Officials of the Ministry for Culture and Islamic Guidance have vowed to "confront" musicians and close illegal studios. They also warn they will "find a solution" to online music distribution.

Sean Diddy Combs poses backstage at the 64th Annual Golden Globe Awards in this, Jan. 15, 2007, file photo in Beverly Hills, Calif. (AP Photo/Kevork Djansezian, file)
Sean "Diddy" Combs poses backstage at the 64th Annual Golden Globe Awards in this, Jan. 15, 2007, file photo in Beverly Hills, Calif. (AP Photo/Kevork Djansezian, file)   (Associated Press)
U.S. Rap star Curtis James Jackson III, better known as 50 Cent, during a concert in Mumbai, India, Sunday, Nov. 18, 2007. (AP Photo/Gautam Singh)
U.S. Rap star Curtis James Jackson III, better known as 50 Cent, during a concert in Mumbai, India, Sunday, Nov. 18, 2007. (AP Photo/Gautam Singh)   (Associated Press)
Jay-Z arrives for a party on  Sept. 18, 2007 in New York. (AP Photo/John Smock)
Jay-Z arrives for a party on Sept. 18, 2007 in New York. (AP Photo/John Smock)   (Associated Press)
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