This would not be the first time Lil Wayne gets into trouble over a rap line, but hopefully it will be the last.
The Young Money honcho received some starching criticism for a line on Future’s “Karate Chop (Remix).”
“Beat that p—y up like Emmett Till,” Lil Wayne raps.
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A little bit of history.
Emmett Til was an African-American 14-year-old boy who was brutally beaten and killed in 1955 for allegedly whistling at a white woman.
The Till family subsequently issued a strong statement to Epic Records and Lil Wayne. The label has since edited the song and now Lil Wayne issued a formal apology.
“Dear Till Family:
As a recording artist, I have always been interested in word play. My lyrics often reference people, places and events in my music, as well as the music that I create for or alongside other artists.
It has come to my attention that lyrics from my contribution to a fellow artist’s song has deeply offended your family. As a father myself, I cannot imagine the pain that your family has had to endure. I would like to take a moment to acknowledge your hurt, as well as the letter you sent to me via your attorneys.
Moving forward, I will not use or reference Emmett Till or the Till family in my music, especially in an inappropriate manner. I fully support Epic Record’s decision to take down the unauthorized version of the song and to not include the reference in the version that went to retail. I will not be performing the lyrics that contain that reference live and have removed them from my catalogue.
I have tremendous respect for those who paved the way for the liberty and opportunities that African-Americans currently enjoy. As a business owner who employs several African-American employees and gives philanthropically to organizations that help youth to pursue their dreams my ultimate intention is to uplift rather than degrade our community.
Best,
Dwayne Michael Carter, Jr.
