Jay-Z, Meek Mill and several other artists, including Big Sean and Yo Gotti, are supporting his push for law enforcement to stop using rap music lyrics during trials to convict rappers.
It’s no secret that American prosecutors have started using the lyrics and content of the music rappers put out to solve crimes. In many cases, detectives have been able to piece puzzles together, leading to convincing evidence used against rappers.
However, Jay-Z and several rappers are pushing back for the right to free speech in rap music as they seek to prevent lyrics from being used in the courtroom to prove guilt.
Among those who are supporting the move are rappers Fat Joe, Kelly Rowland, Killer Mike, Yo Gotti, Robin Thicke, and others who are behind a new bill named “Rap Music on Trial” (S.7527/A.8681) which is to be tabled in the Senate. The rappers are hoping that the bill can become law in the state of New York.
According to Rolling Stone, a letter has been sent to New York Governor Kathy Hochul and other lawmakers asking that the legislation be passed.
Speaking about the advocacy move, Fat Joe said free speech was necessary to rap music.
“Our lyrics are a creative form of self-expression and entertainment – just like any other genre, We want our words to be recognized as art rather than being weaponized to get convictions in court.”
Among the examples that have been used to advocate for the passing of the legislation is Hoylman pointing out Johnny Cash singing that he “shot a man in Reno just to watch him die” as well as David Byrne calling himself a “psycho killer,” – all of which were not viewed as the artists were involved in criminal activities.
Among those artists that have been convicted using their lyrics is the late Drakeo the Ruler, who spent three years in jail.
