Prosecutors, who are expected to present evidence supporting their case against American rapper Young Thug during the RICO trial on January 9, will reportedly use some of his controversial lyrics against him.
The rapper is facing a number of serious charges, including conspiracy, involvement in illegal street gang activity, possession of a firearm, and charges related to controlled substances.
Opening statements are set to begin in a court in Fulton County where Young Thug has already entered a plea of not guilty.
According to his defence attorney, the proceedings will clear his name.
The federal government accuses Young Thug of being one of the top executives of YSL (Young Slime Life), which they claim is not only a music label or brand but also a violent criminal enterprise.
In addition to being one of the many people charged in the expansive case, Young Thug is also a key defendant.
The allegations against Young Thug and the remaining 27 co-defendants date back to 2015, and some of his co-defendants are being charged with murder, attempted murder, and armed robbery.
Specific lyrics that YSL members have rapped are likely to be used by the prosecution to support their case.
Rap lyrics have generated a great deal of controversy, with some arguing they shouldn’t be admitted as evidence because they frequently blur the lines between artistic expression and reality.
Some of the tracks that prosecutors are investigating have been made public, although it’s unclear exactly which song lyrics will be mentioned.
They feature the 2018 hit “Anybody” by Young Thug as well as songs from YSL’s 2020 compilation album like “Take it to Trial,” “Ski,” and “Slatty.”
According to prosecutors’ allegations, YSL members, including Thug, specifically, mention criminal activity in those tracks and further the goal of the group, which is “Preserving, Protecting and Enhancing the Reputation, Power and Territory of the Enterprise,” according to TMZ.
While Thug’s court case is scheduled, Gunna, one of his associates and labelmates, already accepted a plea deal that resulted in his release from custody.