In the debut episode of Gayle King and Charles Barkley's new CNN show "King Charles," the host discussed the controversial use of rap lyrics as evidence in criminal trials. Specifically, the case of Grammy-nominated hip-hop artist Young Thug was highlighted. Young Thug is currently facing racketeering and gang conspiracy charges, and prosecutors have submitted his song lyrics as evidence.
The show invited Laura Coates, CNN's chief legal correspondent, and rapper Fat Joe to share their thoughts on the matter. Fat Joe, who has enjoyed a decades-long rap career, expressed his disbelief and frustration at these types of prosecutions. He argued that most rap lyrics are fictional and used for creative purposes, and should not be held against the artist.
Fat Joe stated, "I’ve been rapping professionally for 30 years — I’ve lied in almost 95 percent of my songs. I’m being honest. I write like I feel that day. I’m just being creative. You couldn’t build a jail high enough for the lyrics I’ve said on songs which are all untrue.
"What I am is a family man, the person who gives back to my community all the time, opens businesses in my community. So the music would never amount to the actual person, Joseph Cartagena.
Coates, on the other hand, played devil's advocate and pointed out that the lyrics are being used in connection to a RICO violation, which requires proof of criminal enterprise and ordering criminal acts. She mentioned that rap lyrics are not the only form of artistic expression used against individuals in court.
The discussion also brought up the issue of freedom of speech. Fat Joe stated that this trial sets a dangerous precedent for the artistic community and the concept of creative freedom. It was noted that the rap community often faces the brunt of such prosecutions, even though other genres also contain violent or controversial lyrics.
Ultimately, the conversation highlighted the importance of recognizing these trials' impact on artists, their families, and their employees. It called for a careful examination of how rap lyrics are being targeted and questioned whether the use of such lyrics infringes on freedom of speech. You can hear more above.
Source: Youtube
