When a rapper writes about violence, is it art or evidence of a crime? In recent years, courts across the United States have wrestled with that question.
In the ongoing debate over rap lyrics being used in court, some argue that these lyrics reflect the true intentions or actions of the artist. Others contend that they are simply artistic expressions protected by the First Amendment. As rap music continues to be scrutinized in legal cases, many are questioning whether lyrics should be considered accurate evidence.
“Rap lyrics should be seen as art, not evidence of a crime,” senior Addella Bissell said.
The use of rap lyrics as evidence raises concerns about the potential for misinterpretation. While lyrics may reflect the reality of the artist’s environment, critics argue they are often used as proof of criminal behavior without considering artistic intent. Senior Alana Avilus expressed the importance of distinguishing between storytelling and a true confession.
“There’s nothing artistic about saying you killed somebody when you didn’t,” Avilus said. “If you’re literally stating that you killed somebody, that’s pure evidence. It’s hard to dismiss that.”
However, not everyone agrees with the view that rap lyrics should be used as evidence. Some believe that in certain cases, lyrics may provide insight into an artist’s involvement in a crime. Junior Garyn Washington highlighted that lyrics often blur the line between art and reality, and it can be difficult to determine what is purely fictional versus factual.
“A song could be fiction. It could be reality. You can’t really determine that,” Washington said. “It depends on the artist and who they are as a person. I don’t think it’s reasonable to charge someone based solely on their lyrics.”
The debate also touches on broader issues of racial and cultural bias. Some argue that rap lyrics are unfairly targeted because of racial stereotypes, particularly against Black artists. Washington and Bissell both expressed concern over the racial profiling inherent in this practice, suggesting that rap lyrics are seen through the lens of racial prejudices.
“A lot of people think that Black people are just killers and shooters,” Washington said. “I don’t think that’s reasonable. There’s a lot of bias in the system.”
The use of rap lyrics as evidence in court is a complex issue that pits freedom of expression against the need for justice. While some argue that lyrics should be treated as art, others believe they can provide insight into the artist’s actions. Sometimes lyrics are just rhymes, but in rare occurrences, they could be a confession.
“Sometimes the truth is right there in the lyrics,” Avilus said.
