Calle 13's Residente Criticizes Dominican Republic Music Ban

By Michael Lopez

Is it us, or is Residente making a ton of headlines this month? Whether it's his outspoken political views or his murderous dolphin videos, the Calle 13 frontman definitely knows how to get a point across. And now he's set his sights on criticizing leaders in the Dominican Republic.

Firing off angry tweets, Residente railed against the Dominican government. The reason? Apparently officials have said Calle 13's music promotes violence and drug use, and have banned it throughout the island.

Carlos Cepeda Suriel, a member of the D.R.’s Public Spectacle Commission, went on to explain the nation's "official" stance.

"We are jealously vigilant in the defense of our country against contamination from the ills in certain songs," he said. "What sounds bad, what does not please the Dominican ear, we will not allow that to be played by Dominican broadcasters."

As you may have expected, that did not sit well with Residente. In response, the Puerto Rican star tweeted,

"Qué se puede esperar de un Gobierno que no puede otorgar ni siquiera un 4% pa’ la educación cuando el pueblo lo pide."

Interestingly, Calle 13 has a show planned in the D.R. on August 6. Judging by Residente's reaction, we seriously doubt they'll swap out their set list for family-friendly Sesame Street songs.

Do you think certain songs are too violent for radio? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Blogger: Michael Lopez, Calle 13, Chisme, Dominican Republic, Música, Politics, Residente