A small radio station in Michigan has opted to remove both Rick Ross and Lil Wayne from their playlists.
Both artists have been particularly controversial in the past few months for a variety of reasons, ranging from drugs, to Emmett Til and, most recently, Rick Ross lyric that seems to advocate date rape.
WUVSIp 103.7 in Muskegon, Michigan issued the following statement.
“Many would say both rappers have taken their lyrical content too far and offended too many. The family and estate of [Emmett Till] have released a statement of disapproval over Lil Wayne’s disregard and disrespectful lyrics. Though his record label issued a statement of apology, the rapper has yet to do so. In the case of Rick Ross, a petition has been started over his blatant disregard for women and the issue of date rape. The U.S. Department of Justice estimates that over 300,000 women are raped or sexually assaulted per year in the United States alone. That is a disturbing number and should not be taken lightly. His lyrics not only condone the behavior, but he boasts about it in the song. While some feel it’s only entertainment, many feel it sends and encourages the wrong message. Several individuals and organizations have taken a stand and so are we. Effective immediately Muskegon’s WUVSlp 103.7 the Beat has pulled ALL Lil Wayne and Rick Ross music from rotation. We pride ourselves on playing music that is non-degrading and non-violent. While we believe in freedom of speech, creative writing and individualism, we refuse to be part of the problem by spreading messages that could harm or end someone’s life.”
No other urban stations have formally take such a hard stance against the artists, despite the controversy.
Neither artist has commented at press time.