Hip Hop Stars Petition To Protect Black Art
Hip Hop Stars Petition To Protect Black Art. The elite of the hip-hop community speaks out. They are upset that song lyrics can be used in court.
Is Black Art Being Attacked Or Not?
Hip Hop Stars Petition To Protect Black Art. This was an unprecedented act to protect artists’ lyrics. According to The Source, major superstars in hip-hop sent an open letter.
This was done in an attempt to protect their rights to artistic expression. In other words, hip-hop artists do not want their lyrics used in court cases.
They urged politicians and policymakers not to allow the use of lyrics against defendants. We have heard how some prosecutors refer to rap lyrics in court cases.
The idea is to nail the defendant with their own words. However, this is problematic. Especially since, not every hip-hop artist is a gangsta. Even though, some hip-hop artists mentioned street life.
It does not necessarily mean they are participating in illegal activity. Unfortunately, a lot of recent hip-hop lyrics have come back to haunt them. As it relates to the RICO act.
In an article by XXL Mag, these words were written,
“Since its early days, rap lyrics have been used by prosecutors to build narratives with criminal trials. With the genre’s popularity booming, this trend continues to affect aspiring artists and A-list rappers alike more than ever.”
This really sums it up. So often, we see this played out in court cases. Should lyrics be considered evidence? Where does the justice system draw the line? Do you agree that using hip-hop lyrics as evidence is wrong?
Having said this, so many stars signed the petition. And, this was after recognizing that in more than 500 cases hip-hop lyrics were used. Not to mention, the cases of non- hip hip artists.
Check out the names of those who sent this open letter,
“Drake, Mary J. Blige, 2 Chainz, 21 Savage, 50 Cent, Big Sean, Alicia Keys, the Black Eyed Peas, John Legend, Busta Rhymes, Camila Cabello, Fat Joe, DJ Khaled, Jadakiss, Megan Thee Stallion, Roddy Ricch, T.I., Future, J. Cole, Jack Harlow, Ice-T, Killer Mike, Lil Baby, Quavo, Joey Bada$$, John Legend, Lil Uzi Vert, Moneybagg Yo, Post Malone, Questlove, Tee Grizzley, Ty Dolla $ign, Yo Gotti, Christina Aquilera, Morgan Wallen, and Takeoff.”
This is quite an impressive list. So, you can see that this is a pressing issue. Not only that, I think this open letter may work. Or at least, it will get the attention of lawmakers.
Also, this sends a clear message about freedom of speech.
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