PMRC

The Parents Music Resource Center, commonly known as the PMRC, was an American organization founded in 1985 by Tipper Gore and other prominent political figures' wives. Its primary objective was to combat what it perceived as the growing problem of explicit lyrical content in popular music. The PMRC argued that certain songs contained sexually explicit, violent, or drug-related themes that were harmful to children and adolescents.

The organization's most significant action was lobbying for increased parental guidance and censorship of music. This led to a highly publicized Senate hearing in 1985, where representatives from the music industry, including musicians and record executives, testified. The PMRC presented a list of "Filthy Fifteen" songs that they deemed particularly offensive.

In response to the pressure, the music industry voluntarily adopted the "Parental Advisory: Explicit Lyrics" sticker system in 1987. This label indicated that a recording might contain adult themes. The PMRC viewed this as a victory, though critics argued it was a form of censorship that infringed on artistic freedom.

The PMRC's influence waned over time as public discourse shifted and the music industry adapted. However, its legacy continues to be debated in discussions about censorship, artistic expression, and the role of parental oversight in media consumption. The organization itself was eventually dissolved.