Introduction
Spotify is an awesome content platform that gives you access to a massive library of songs, podcasts and audiobooks. By default, the playback of songs and other content that’s flagged as having explicit content is allowed. This could be problematic if you use your Spotify account to play music for your kids in the car, will be using it to play music for a group of people who may be sensitive to explicit content, or will be using it to play the music at a workplace function. No matter the reason Spotify makes it easy to block explicit songs and other content to ensure it won’t be played.
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Steps to Block Explicit Songs in the Spotify Mobile App
- Launch the Spotify app on your iPhone, iPad or Android device. You’ll land on your Spotify home page.
- Tap the “Settings” icon at the top of the screen. You’ll land on the Settings page.
- Tap “Explicit Content” in the list of options. The Explicit Content screen is displayed.
- Tap to toggle off “Allow Explicit Content.” Going forward, songs or podcasts that are labelled as having explicit content will either be skipped in playlists where they appear, or grayed out as not being available to play.
Steps to Block Explicit Songs in the Spotify Desktop App
- Launch the Spotify app on your computer. You’ll land on your Spotify account home page.
- Tap your profile icon at the top of the screen to open a menu, and then click “Settings” in that menu. You’ll land on your Spotify settings screen.
- Find Explicit Content, and then click to toggle off “Explicit Content.” Going forward, songs or podcasts that are labelled as having explicit content will either be skipped in playlists where they appear, or grayed out as not being available to play.
Reasons to Block Explicit Songs on Spotify
1. Child Safety
Protecting young ears is a priority for many parents and guardians. Children, being impressionable, easily absorb what they hear. Explicit lyrics could introduce them to themes or language they’re not yet equipped to understand or process. Keeping their auditory environment clean ensures they aren’t exposed prematurely. Furthermore, blocking explicit songs on Spotify helps maintain a wholesome atmosphere for younger listeners, shielding them from potential negative influences.
2. Personal Preference
Everyone has individual tastes in music. Some people naturally gravitate towards melodies without the distraction of explicit words. They might find explicit lyrics distracting, distasteful, or out of sync with their personal values or mood. Respecting one’s own boundaries and preferences is essential, and choosing non-explicit content on Spotify is a personal choice reflecting individual values and comfort levels.
3. Public or Shared Environments
Playing music in public spaces like stores or offices demands a certain decorum. Explicit lyrics can risk offending visitors, clients, or colleagues. The essence of background music in such places is to create an ambiance without causing disruption. By avoiding explicit songs on Spotify, organizations and individuals can maintain a professional, inclusive, and comfortable environment for all.
4. Avoiding Triggers
Music has a profound impact on our emotions. For some, explicit content might evoke past traumas or distressing memories. Blocking such tracks can act as a protective measure, ensuring that their listening experience remains therapeutic and pleasant. Music should be an escape and comfort, not a source of unwanted reminders or feelings.
5. Cultural or Religious Beliefs
Music transcends borders, but cultural and religious beliefs play a critical role in shaping our listening choices. For many, their beliefs discourage or prohibit certain explicit themes or language. Respecting these tenets, they opt for tracks that align with their values, ensuring their musical experience remains harmonious with their beliefs.
6. Sensitivity to Language
Not everyone appreciates strong language or explicit themes. Some listeners might feel jarring effects from explicit content, preferring more neutral or clean tracks. This sensitivity could stem from personal upbringing, experiences, or just innate preference. Thus, choosing to avoid explicit content on Spotify ensures their listening experience remains serene and enjoyable.
7. Educational or Learning Environments
In places of study or learning, the focus should remain on education. Music, often used as a backdrop, should support this atmosphere. By avoiding explicit tracks, educators and learners ensure that the auditory environment remains conducive to concentration and absorption, free from potential distractions.
8. Professional or Work-related Reasons
Music finds its way into various professional settings, from presentations to videos. Using non-explicit tracks ensures that the content remains universally acceptable. Whether it’s a corporate presentation or a public advertisement, avoiding explicit songs on Spotify ensures the message remains undiluted and widely acceptable.
9. Misunderstanding or Accidents
Sometimes, listeners might unintentionally block explicit content. Their intention might not be to avoid certain songs, but a simple mis-click or misunderstanding can lead to this result. Recognizing and rectifying such actions ensures they enjoy their preferred content without unintentional restrictions.
