The popular dance game franchise, Just Dance, has been a staple in many gaming households since its release in 2009. With its catchy tunes, fun dance moves, and competitive multiplayer mode, it’s no wonder why both kids and adults alike can’t get enough of it. However, with the rise of explicit content in music, parents and guardians may wonder: is Just Dance music clean?
Understanding the Concerns
As a responsible parent, it’s natural to worry about the type of content your child is exposed to, especially when it comes to music. With the prevalence of explicit lyrics, suggestive themes, and mature content in many modern songs, it’s essential to take a closer look at the music featured in Just Dance. But what exactly constitutes “clean” music, and how does Just Dance measure up?
Defining Clean Music
Clean music, in the context of Just Dance, refers to songs that are free from explicit language, suggestive lyrics, and mature themes that may be inappropriate for younger players. While opinions on what constitutes “clean” may vary, most parents would agree that music suitable for kids should:
- Avoid profanity and explicit language
- Refrain from promoting violence, suggestive themes, or mature content
- Foster a positive and uplifting message
Ubisoft’s Approach to Music Selection
Ubisoft, the developer behind Just Dance, takes a proactive approach to selecting songs for their game. According to an interview with Creative Director, Alkis Argyriadis, the team strives to create a playlist that is both fun and family-friendly. Here’s how they ensure the music stays clean:
In-house Review Process: The development team reviews each song individually, checking for explicit language, lyrics, and themes. They work closely with record labels and artists to ensure that the songs meet their standards.
Age Rating Guidelines: Just Dance is designed to be accessible to players of all ages, but the team takes into account the age ratings of each song. They aim to include songs that are suitable for a general audience, adhering to guidelines set by organizations like the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) and the Pan European Game Information (PEGI).
Just Dance Song Selection: A Breakdown
Let’s take a closer look at the types of songs featured in Just Dance:
- Top 40 Hits: Just Dance often includes current chart-toppers, which may raise concerns about explicit content. However, the team carefully selects edited versions or “clean” radio mixes of these songs, ensuring they meet their standards.
- Classic Tracks: The game also features classic hits from various genres, which are often more innocuous and family-friendly. These songs are carefully chosen to appeal to players of all ages.
- Kid-Friendly Content: Some songs are specifically designed for younger players, featuring kid-friendly lyrics and themes. These tracks are often included in the game’s Kids’ Mode.
Notable Exceptions and Controversies
While Ubisoft’s efforts to provide clean music are commendable, there have been instances where songs have sparked controversy:
The “Harlem Shake” Controversy
In 2013, the song “Harlem Shake” by Baauer became a viral sensation, but its inclusion in Just Dance 2014 sparked concern among parents. The song’s lyrics contain explicit language, although the game’s version was edited to remove profanity. This incident highlighted the challenges of balancing the need for popular songs with the need to maintain a family-friendly environment.
Ratings and Feedback
Just Dance games have occasionally received mixed reviews from parents and rating organizations due to the inclusion of certain songs. For example, Just Dance 2017 received a “Teen” rating from the ESRB, citing “lyrics and suggestive content” as contributing factors. However, it’s worth noting that these instances are rare and the game’s overall content is still designed to be suitable for a general audience.
A Parent’s Perspective: What to Expect
So, what can parents expect from Just Dance music? While the game does contain some mature themes and suggestions, the vast majority of songs are carefully selected to be clean and family-friendly. Here’s what you can expect:
Most Songs Are Suitable for Kids: The majority of songs in Just Dance are designed to be fun and accessible for players of all ages. You can expect to find popular hits, classic tracks, and kid-friendly content that’s suitable for your little ones.
Some Songs May Not Be Suitable for Younger Kids: While the game’s content is generally clean, some songs may contain mature themes or suggestions that may not be suitable for younger players. As a parent, it’s essential to review the song list and use your discretion when allowing your child to play.
Conclusion: Getting Groovy with a Clear Conscience
Just Dance is an excellent way to get your family moving and grooving together, and with Ubisoft’s commitment to providing clean music, you can rest assured that your kids are exposed to a positive and uplifting environment. While there may be occasional exceptions, the game’s overall content is designed to be suitable for a general audience.
By understanding the steps Ubisoft takes to select and curate their song list, you can feel confident that Just Dance is a great choice for your family’s gaming sessions. So, go ahead, get your dance shoes ready, and enjoy the fun, clean, and family-friendly musical experience that Just Dance has to offer!
What is Just Dance Music?
Just Dance Music refers to the soundtracks of the popular dance game franchise, Just Dance. The franchise, developed by Ubisoft, has been around since 2009 and has released numerous games featuring popular songs from various artists and genres. The games are designed to get players moving and grooving to the beat, making them a fun way to stay active and entertained.
Just Dance Music typically features a diverse range of genres, from pop and rock to hip-hop and electronic dance music (EDM). The songs are often upbeat and energetic, making them perfect for getting people on their feet and dancing. The franchise has become incredibly popular, with millions of players worldwide, and has even spawned a community of enthusiasts who create their own dance routines and share them online.
Is Just Dance Music appropriate for all ages?
While Just Dance Music is generally considered family-friendly, not all songs are suitable for young children. Some songs may contain mild profanity, suggestive lyrics, or mature themes that may not be appropriate for younger kids. However, the franchise does offer parental controls that allow parents to limit access to certain songs or features, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all players.
That being said, many Just Dance songs are suitable for kids and can be a great way to get them moving and active. The games often feature kid-friendly tracks from popular franchises like Disney, Pixar, and Nickelodeon, making them a great option for family game nights or kids’ parties. Parents can also use the games as a way to introduce their kids to different music genres and encourage an appreciation for dance and movement.
Are Just Dance songs edited for content?
Yes, many Just Dance songs are edited for content to make them more family-friendly. The franchise works with record labels and artists to obtain edited versions of popular songs, which may involve removing profanity, suggestive lyrics, or other mature content. This ensures that the songs are suitable for players of all ages and can be enjoyed in a variety of settings.
However, it’s worth noting that not all songs are edited equally, and some may still contain mild profanity or suggestive themes. Parents should review the song selection and use their discretion when allowing children to play the games. Additionally, some songs may be labeled as ” explicit” or “mature,” indicating that they contain more mature content and may not be suitable for younger players.
Can I customize my Just Dance playlist?
Yes, Just Dance games allow players to create their own custom playlists, which can be a great way to tailor the experience to individual tastes. Players can choose from a vast library of songs and create playlists based on their favorite genres, artists, or dance styles. This feature is especially useful for families or groups with diverse musical tastes, as they can create playlists that cater to everyone’s preferences.
Additionally, some Just Dance games offer the ability to download additional songs from the franchise’s online store, which can further expand the playlist options. Players can also create and share their own playlists online, allowing them to discover new songs and connect with other fans of the franchise.
Are Just Dance songs available for streaming?
Yes, many Just Dance songs are available for streaming through popular music services like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music. This allows fans of the franchise to enjoy their favorite songs outside of the game, whether they’re working out, driving, or simply relaxing. The songs can often be found on official Just Dance playlists or through artist-specific playlists.
Streaming Just Dance songs can also be a great way to discover new music and artists, as the franchise often features songs from up-and-coming acts or lesser-known artists. By streaming these songs, fans can support the artists and explore new genres and styles.
Can I use Just Dance Music for fitness or exercise?
Absolutely! Just Dance Music is perfect for getting people moving and active, making it an excellent choice for fitness or exercise routines. The upbeat and energetic tracks can help motivate individuals to get moving, whether they’re dancing, jogging, or engaging in other forms of exercise. Many fitness enthusiasts and instructors use Just Dance songs in their workouts, and the franchise has even spawned a spin-off series, Just Dance Fitness, which focuses specifically on fitness and exercise.
Just Dance Music can also be used as a fun way to get kids more active, by incorporating dance-based exercises into their daily routines. The songs are often designed to get people moving and grooving, making them an excellent choice for kids’ fitness classes or family workouts.
Is Just Dance Music only available through the games?
No, Just Dance Music is not only available through the games. While the franchise is best known for its video games, the music is also available through various other channels. Fans can purchase individual tracks or albums from online music stores like iTunes or Google Play Music, or stream them through popular music services like Spotify or Apple Music.
Additionally, the franchise has released several soundtracks and compilation albums featuring popular Just Dance songs. These albums can be found on music streaming platforms or purchased through online retailers. By making the music available through multiple channels, the franchise allows fans to enjoy their favorite songs whenever and wherever they want.