• TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice.
    Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads.
    Join freeLog in
    Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.

Cuss words in songs?

I think it usually sounds immature. Obviously there are exceptions, like "Who Are You" (The Who), where he screams "Aaaahh who the f*** are you"? or the example mentioned above by Shoemaniac is a good one. If it's just used for shock value, then I think it's lazy writing. If it's the only word that will work, then fine.

You should also consider that radio has very strict rules when it comes to language (this is true almost everywhere in the world), so if you write a great song, it would a shame if it couldn't be played because of a couple of words.