Originally written by Andrew Future · 2 November 2004
Police investigating the homophobic murder of David Morley are examining a link with “murder music”.
The London Evening Standard today reports how detectives are examining lyrics of acts like Buju Banton, Elephant Man and Beenie Man. Scotland Yard's Racial and Violent Crime Task Force is currently investigating eight reggae acts.
Detective Chief Inspector Clive Driscoll said: "We have purchased the CDs and are having these translated from patois to English. The allegations are very serious."
Another artist being under the spotlight arrives in London this week. Jamaican artist Miguel Collins, who goes by the name star Sizzla, has hits including ‘Boom Boom’, which includes the line "Shoot queers". This comes just weeks after the MOBO Awards were marred by slurs of homophobia. Gay rights campaigners have warned of a link between homophobic music and the 10 per cent increase in ‘gay bashing’ incidents over the last year.
DiScuss: Does reggae make you wanna shoot queers or drink root beer? What else should be investigated for homophobic views? The Bible? Islam? Neighbours? Have you ever seen a gay person on Neighbours?