Russia’s State Secretary – Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs Igor Zubov said that several well-known rappers have removed songs about drugs from their catalogs and have informed the police about these changes. He noted that letters from prominent artists have already reached the ministry during a plenary session in the State Duma. Zubov stated that these songs were taken out of circulation, though he did not disclose the identities of the musicians involved. Official remarks earlier indicated that songs referencing drug use could carry legal consequences once the new measure is enacted in 2024.
Officials clarified that criminal liability would follow a pattern where an executor or performer faces administrative penalties two or more times for such violations before any broader criminal action would apply. In this context, the emphasis remains on the legal accountability framework rather than naming specific individuals involved in the reported changes to their repertoires.
On the broader artistic landscape, rapper Ptah, whose real name is David Nuriev, has spoken about ongoing struggles and what he perceives as persistent discrimination against rap artists. He recalled a moment when Russian President Vladimir Putin publicly supported rappers and urged others to give them space. This reflection underscores the tension between artistic expression and regulatory scrutiny that has characterized the sector in recent years, and it is a reminder of the evolving policy environment surrounding music and public performance.
Authorities have continued to stress that the intent of the proposed legal adjustments is to address the content of songs and performances that depict illegal drug use in a manner that could influence audiences, especially younger listeners. The communications from the ministry indicate a concern with how certain lyrical themes intersect with public safety and social norms, and how enforcement might unfold as new provisions come into effect. Observers note that the debate involves balancing artistic freedom with the responsibilities of performers to avoid promoting illegal activities, while maintaining a robust legal framework that can respond to violations in a consistent, transparent manner.
Industry representatives and cultural analysts have urged careful consideration of how such measures are implemented, to prevent unintended consequences for legitimate creative work. They emphasize that clear guidelines and due process are essential for maintaining an atmosphere in which artists can express themselves while respecting the rule of law. In the current discourse, there is a call for precise interpretation of the law and for the protection of performers from arbitrary treatment, alongside a commitment to public safety and moral standards. The situation continues to unfold as lawmakers, law enforcement, and the music community engage in dialogue about best practices and compliance expectations for the arts sector. government disclosures and public briefings.