Music as Torture

I chose this song because I think it relates to several things deemed both characteristic of 'torture music' and music prohibited by most if not only traditional, hardliner Muslims. The music is repetitive, western as well as demeaning in the context it would be played. Not only is the majority of the lyrics dominated by the word "womanizer", but also it would serve as an ironic taunt directed at the detainees since it contrasts their lack of power with the supposed power of a 'womanizer' and also blatantly insults their religion since it is obviously associated with "forbidden pleasures"(15, Otterbeck) as well as dangerously distracts one from their devotion to Allah. However, it should be noted that this song may be unlikely to be played since it would seem traditionally unlikely that a guard or soldier would own this song especially since I would assume it does little to prepare one for battle. While the song first gives the impression of casting an image of male power and dominance, the fact that Britney is declaring the man as a womanizer and essentially forcing him into such a position seemingly inverts the gendered positions of power. 

"Womanizer" by Britney Spears