Whether we like it or not the giants of social media and industry are censoring using computer algorithms. Even music is affected by mindless censorship and censorship performed by A.I. is truly mindless.
I've had several absurd experiences with Facebook inappropriately censoring my posts and YouTube banned one of my bowed psaltery videos for violation of copyright where there was none. I contested all and was able to post my video but never heard back from Facebook.
Below is a Facebook post from Folkcraft instruments. It relates their recent experience with the less than dynamic duo of A.I. and censorship.
"Whiskey Before Breakfast" is undoubtedly one of the most popular tunes in any traditional music jam but Folkcraft Instruments can't put a book up for sale because one tune's title contains the word whiskey. How many other traditional song titles might be found offensive for one reason or another?
I'm not posting this to argue the specifics of A.I. or censorship, this is not the place for it. I am trying to point out how widespread, absurd and ultimately dangerous it is when the two are combined and not directly supervised by a human before action is taken.
You might think these are minor incidents but this trend is growing. I think it is worth the time and effort to contest these bans when they occur and raise awareness of what is happening by sharing your experiences with others.
Thank you, Folkcraft Instruments, for taking the time to share your experience and for giving me permission to share it on Psaltery Strings.