In a fiery outburst, former NBA player Stephen Jackson has publicly condemned rapper Lil Yachty for using George Floyd’s name in a recent song lyric, calling the move “weak” and a blatant attempt at clout-chasing. Jackson, who was a close friend of Floyd, expressed his outrage during a live stream, emphasizing that invoking Floyd’s name for the sake of attention is disrespectful to his memory and the ongoing fight for justice.

Jackson’s passionate response comes after Lil Yachty referenced Floyd in a bar while rapping, which he deemed inappropriate and offensive. “You think saying George Floyd’s name is going to make people like your whack music? Cut that out!” Jackson exclaimed, clearly angered by the insensitivity of the lyric. He stressed that such actions trivialize the pain experienced by Floyd’s family and the broader community, stating, “You don’t know him, so don’t use his name for your gain.”

The backlash against Lil Yachty highlights a growing trend within hip-hop where artists face scrutiny for their lyrical choices, especially when referencing sensitive subjects like death. Jackson’s outcry is not just personal; it resonates with many who feel that the legacy of George Floyd should be honored, not exploited. “Leave his name out of your mouth,” Jackson urged, reminding the audience of the profound impact Floyd’s death had on the world and the ongoing struggles for racial justice.

As the conversation escalates, it raises critical questions about the responsibilities artists have when crafting their lyrics and the potential consequences of their words. Jackson’s powerful message serves as a stark reminder of the line between artistic expression and respect for those who have suffered. The fallout from this incident is sure to continue, as fans and critics alike weigh in on the implications of using such charged references in music.