In a recent conversation on CNN with Gayle King, rapper Fat Joe made some surprising admissions about the validity of his lyrics and also defended fellow artist Young Thug amid his ongoing RICO trial. Joey Crack, as Fat Joe is often referred to, expressed his views on Thugga’s case and how his lyrics are now being used as evidence.
The Bronx native believes it is unfair for the prosecution to go down this route, especially considering that Young Thug’s lyrics are non-factual. In a candid moment, Joe admitted that he has lied in nearly 95 percent of his songs throughout his 30-year career.
“I’ve been rapping professionally for 30 years — I’ve lied in almost 95 percent of my songs,” Joe confessed during the interview. “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.”
The rapper further emphasized that his lyrics are a form of creative expression and not a reflection of his personal life. He asserted that he is a family man who actively gives back to his community.
Joe has even opened businesses in his community to separate his music persona from his true self, Joseph Cartegena. He expressed his disappointment in district attorneys who choose to use lyrics as evidence, knowing fully well that they are products of creativity and imagination.
“What’s even more horrible is the District Attorneys. They know those lyrics ain’t real. They know that’s creativity, but if it helps their case, they’ll use it to put these guys in jail,” Joe stated.
Fat Joe’s comments were made in support of Young Thug, whose lawyer, Brian Steel, argued in the opening statement of Thug’s trial that his client’s name is an acronym for “Truly Humble Under God.” According to Steel, Young Thug was born into a society filled with despair, hopelessness, and helplessness, influencing his art and lyrics.
The conversation surrounding the authenticity of lyrics in the context of legal proceedings raises essential questions about artistic expression and the potential misuse of creative work. While lyrics often reflect personal experiences, emotions, and social commentary, they should not be taken as literal confessions or evidence of criminal activities.
As the trial continues, artists and legal experts will wrestle with the confluence of art, truth, and the legal system. It remains to be seen how Young Thug’s case will unfold and what its implications will be for the broader music industry.
