Valiant's song "Mad Out" to be banned
- Monica McIndoe
- Oct 4, 2023
- 2 min read

The Controversy Surrounding 'Mad Out' and Freedom of Expression in Jamaican
In the vibrant world of Jamaican dancehall music, Valiant, the dancehall singer, finds himself at the center of a storm. His hit song "Mad Out" is rumored to be facing a potential ban, sparking a heated debate over its authenticity within the Jamaican government. But is this controversy truly warranted? Let's delve into the heart of the matter and explore why Valiant's music deserves to be heard.
Before we explore the controversy surrounding "Mad Out," it's crucial to understand Valiant's musical journey. Valiant gained recognition with his song "Dunce Cheque," renowned for its infectious beat that gets people grooving. However, this song, like many in the dancehall genre, features rough and explicit lyrics. Yet, it's important to recognize that in the world of dancehall, lyrics often take a backseat to the infectious rhythms that keep people moving on the dance floor.
"Mad Out" took the dancehall scene by storm with its catchy rhythm and high energy. However, rumors soon spread that the Jamaican government was considering banning the song. Valiant himself weighed in on social media, claiming that a ban would never happen. But why the uproar over a dancehall song?
Critics argue that Valiant's lyrics in "Mad Out" are too explicit and offensive. Nevertheless, it's essential to understand that dancehall is a unique genre that thrives on pushing boundaries and expressing raw emotions. The use of slang and cuss words is not intended to offend but rather to convey the artist's emotions and connect with their audience on a visceral level. In Valiant's case, he hasn't crossed the line into swearing or taking the Lord's name in vain, as per his own unique dictionary.
Critics point to the government's role in attempting to regulate dancehall lyrics, citing the official dictionary as a reference point. However, dancehall is an integral part of Jamaican culture and should be allowed to flourish without undue interference. While it's important to maintain a level of responsibility, the essence of dancehall lies in its ability to reflect the raw and unfiltered emotions of the people.
In the end, the controversy surrounding Valiant and "Mad Out" is a reminder of the ongoing debate between artistic freedom and societal norms. Valiant, like many dancehall artists, uses music as a means to express his emotions, and his unique dictionary should be respected as part of the dancehall culture. As listeners, we have the choice to engage with the music or walk away, but stifling artistic expression should not be the answer. Let Jamaican dancehall music thrive, for it is a unique and vital part of the island's rich cultural tapestry.
In a world where freedom of expression is a fundamental right, we must balance our desire for responsible art with an appreciation for the diverse forms of expression that make our culture rich and vibrant. Valiant's "Mad Out" is more than just a song; it's a reflection of the unique cultural tapestry of Jamaica, and it should continue to resonate in the hearts and minds of its people. Let Valiant have his own dictionary, It Is not swearing unless We take the Lord's name in vain. WHAT THE FUDGE!!!!!
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