“We Can’t Continue to Glorify Badness”: Minister Matthew Warns Against Music Celebrating Gunmen
Speaking during debate on tougher firearms penalties, Daryll Matthew said the country must also examine the messages children hear about guns and violence.
Education Minister and MP for St John’s Rural South Daryll Matthew has urged Antigua and Barbuda to confront music that celebrates gunmen, saying young people are growing up with messages that make violence appear admirable.
Speaking in the House of Representatives on Monday during debate on the Firearms (Amendment) Bill, Matthew said the country cannot condemn shootings while overlooking the culture surrounding its children.
“We can’t continue to glorify badness in this country,” he told Parliament. Matthew said he enjoys dancehall, soca and other Caribbean music, but objected to songs that celebrate gunmen.
He called for a way to curb the negative messages children hear, while acknowledging that some people would see such action as censorship.
His remarks come amid continuing questions about the government’s appointment of Jamaican dancehall artist Masicka as a cultural ambassador.
The appointment was presented as a way to develop young talent and create opportunities in music, but critics have questioned the message sent by giving the role to an artist whose work includes graphic references to guns, threats and criminal violence.
One song raised in that debate is Infrared, a collaboration with Vybz Kartel. Its lyrics describe carrying a gun, watching enemies and arranging attacks.
Matthew did not name Masicka or that song in his parliamentary speech but the connection between his remarks and the ambassador appointment is part of the wider public debate.
The Bathlodge shooting has made the discussion more urgent. A young woman was killed and two other people, including a 13-year-old boy, were wounded in the attack. Charges have been brought against suspects, but the case has yet to be decided in court.
Social media posts said to show that one of the accused Jaquan Shaw, admired Masicka even at a very young age.
Here’s a quick look at his Facebook status in 2018.
Meanwhile, Matthew’s appeal was broader than any one performer. He argued that leaders, families and broadcasters must consider what children hear repeatedly and whether society is treating the image of the gunman as entertainment or as a warning.
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Shermain Bique-Charles is an accomplished journalist with over 24 years of dynamic experience in the industry. Renowned for her exceptional storytelling and investigative skills, she has garnered numerous awards that highlight her commitment to journalistic integrity and excellence. Her work not only informs but also inspires, making her a respected voice in the field.
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Comments (4)
Marcia James September 28, 2026, 3:58 PM
This is a conversation we really need to have. The music children are exposed to can influence what they see as normal, but it cannot be the only thing we blame. Parents, schools, communities, artists and broadcasters all have a role to play in teaching young people that guns and violence are not something to admire. We have to tackle the problem from all sides.
Kevin Joseph September 28, 2026, 3:58 PM
Minister Matthew raising this issue is timely, especially with everything happening in our communities. But talking about music is just one piece of the puzzle. We also need stronger parenting, opportunities for young people, proper policing and consequences when serious crimes are committed. We can't just talk after somebody gets hurt; prevention has to start before things reach that stage.
NO RETREAT NO SURRENDER September 28, 2026, 4:07 PM
You have no control over Spotify, or apple music or Prime or any other streaming platforms! So good luck with that one! Weak argument. Maybe you can ban all the Antiguan musicians but why? Or just become a total police state. Antiguan artist don't sing about that except they are wannabe Jcans. I personally don't know of Antiguans that are topping the charts with GUN MUSIC! How about we raise our children the correct way; instill good values, and morals. Help them to understand why the straight, and narrow is the only real way! Teach them to be legal Shottas join the cadet core, the defense force, the police force, become security guard. Or just be a militant individual standing up for the country! The Good People of Antigua cannot and will not be hostage to the BULLSHIT! winning the battle is not optional. When they are underage lock up the parents! Nobody turning no other cheek here! Everytime I hear that the police killed one of these scumbags I breathe easier. Kill them all! Life for a life!
Apex Jones September 28, 2026, 4:13 PM
Hmmmmmmmmmmmmm. I believe Jamaica had passed a law like that. It didnt sit well though, but i wish we could do something of the same here. Ban those songs from playing on the radio and in public