By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
Over the past few years and especially in 2011 and the first half of 2012, Rick Ross was the biggest rapper in the game. Some may now argue 2 Chainz, Kendrick Lamar, and Drake may have regained this position, but Ross remains major. Regardless of the case of popularity, Rick Ross is making the biggest headlines.
Coming into 2013, Rick Ross appeared on several songs. He is a part of Ace Hood’s breakout hit, “Bugatti” with Future. Rick Ross and Future also appeared on Rocko’s “U.E.N.O.” single. On the song, Rick Ross rapped about slipping a Molly in a woman’s drink and taking her back home, facing quite a bit of backlash.
The protests mounted and the aim was pointed at Rick Ross and his sponsors. Reebok has been Rick Ross’ biggest sponsor over the past couple of years. But, the pressure they placed on Reebok led them in the direction of Rocko, as they disassociated themselves from Rick Ross. Earlier today, Rick Ross released a statement regarding the matter.
Read Rick Ross’ statement below:
“I want to thank Reebok Classics for their hard work and dedication over this past year.Good partners,good shoe.continued success.
Before I am an artist, I am a father, a son, and a brother to some of the most cherished women in the world. So for me to suggest in any way that harm and violation be brought to a woman is one of my biggest mistakes and regrets. As an artist, one of the most liberating things is being able to paint pictures with my words. But with that comes a great responsibility. And most recently, my choice of words was not only offensive, it does not reflect my true heart. And for this, I apologize. To every woman that has felt the sting of abuse, I apologize. I recognize that as an artist I have a voice and with that, the power of influence. To the young men who listen to my music, please know that using a substance to rob a woman of her right to make a choice is not only a crime, it’s wrong and I do not encourage it. To my fans, I also apologize if I have disappointed you. I can only hope that this sparks a healthy dialogue and that I can contribute to it.”
