Everyone likes listening to music and that’s a fact. It doesn’t matter what genre or artists you listen to as long as it makes you happy!

Sometimes we, as listeners, run into a problem on whether or not we should continue to listen to an artist who is considered problematic.

For example, should we keep on listening to artists who are accused of sexual abuse.

Kelly, despite his illustrated career, was allegedly accused of sexual abuse by several women. If these allegations are true, then he should face the consequences. Let’s not forget about his secret marriage to R&B singer Aaliyah who was only 15 years old at the time!

Kelly’s most popular songs include, “Ignition,” “I Believe I Can Fly,” “Bump n’ Grind,” and “I’m a Flirt.” Those are some good 90s songs. So the question on whether or not we can listen to these songs without feeling guilty, the answer is yes. Just because you enjoy listening to Kelly doesn’t mean you support him or the actions he has done.

Another artist that has been accused of sexual abuse is the “The King of Pop” Michael Jackson. Jackson is known for his musical career and alleged sexual abuse of young boys. It’s a very messy and confusing situation to watch from the outside. The documentary, “Leaving Neverland” goes into detail about Wade Robson and James Safechuck’s confession of being molested by Jackson when they were young.

The four-hour documentary was released this year. Despite several allegations, Jackson has never been charged with anything. What does this mean for his music? Well, you have to admit Jackson’s music is iconic and loved by millions. But knowing what he has been accused of, makes you think twice on whether you should repeat, “Beat It” for the tenth time.

What about someone who was probably mentally ill and suffered from anger issues? I’m talking about late XXXTentacion. X has been charged with an aggravated battery of a pregnant victim and domestic battery by strangulation among other things. He pleaded not guilty. Should you listen to his music though? Yeah if you want. He’s dead.

Also, a lot of people can relate to his short depressing songs like, “Jocelyn Flores,” “SAD!” “the remedy for a broken heart (why am I so in love),” and his other popular songs.

Another artist that has had some negative attention has been Cardi B. She confessed to drugging androbbing men when she used to be a stripper. I’m not saying this is ok, but it is nowhere near as bad as those listed above. Cardi B publicly admitted her actions and apologized for her past behaviors. You have to remember she is from ‘The Bronx,’ used to be a stripper and gained popularity by causing drama on “Love & Hip Hop: New York.” You do not want to mess with Cardi B.

This is just a scratch at the music industry’s problematic artists.

The point is artists are also human and some of them make horrible mistakes and others are just shitty people overall. That shouldn’t stop you from listening to their music. But defending them when they have been convicted of a crime is a whole different story. Do your own research!