Statement by Rovena Dilo: If you listen to Albanian rap, 50% become criminals

The well-known singer Rovena Dilo has sparked debate following a strong statement about rappers and the influence of rap music on society. While appearing on “Ftese ne 5,” Dilo expressed her concern about what she described as a “provocative genre” that could incite dangerous behavior and polarize young people.

“If you listen to Albanian rap, 50% become criminals,” said Dilo, adding that music should be “a nourishing, inspiring, beautifying tool” rather than an impulse toward violence or extremism. She raised the rhetorical question of what inspires a rapper: to take an AK-47 and kill, or to spray champagne on someone’s head, as a metaphor for the two very different realities music can incite.

“If you listen to Albanian rap, 50% become criminals. That’s the inspiration it gives. Music should be a nourishing, inspiring, and beautifying tool—but where does it lead? This genre is too provocative. What inspires a rapper: to take an AK-47 and kill, or to spray champagne on someone’s head?”

The artist’s statement is expected to divide opinions: some support her concern about messages that normalize violence, while others consider it a questionable responsibility that penalizes an entire genre for the actions of individuals. On social media, comments have reflected a range of views—from defending artistic freedom and the need to reflect reality in art, to calls for greater social responsibility from artists.

Music, including rap, can reflect social problems (poverty, violence, marginalization) but is not necessarily the cause of criminal behavior.

“KORÇA BOOM”