It’s true that Lupe Fiasco’s representative from Atlantic Records contacted me last fall and he did so while I was in mourning over the sudden death of my cousin Heavy D. I gave the representative a conditional “yes” to use T.R.O.Y. for Lupe’s album but only based on the condition that I be involved on the project. It’s what I always say when approached by people who want to use that particular song. I was never contacted again. At no point was there any follow up from Atlantic Records. Now, the story gets twisted and it’s being said that I said “yes.” The part about my conditions has been left out to make me seem like I’m a hypocrite. When I heard about the song again, it was done, completed, and playing on the radio…and that was Monday night.

It’s true that people have made T.R.O.Y. over. I can’t control what’s done with my work after it’s already out there but I can control who gets my blessings. Those who involve me and respect me in the process, get my blessings. Those who work behind my back – but all the while putting up a front like I’m down with it – don’t.
I’m flattered that they wanted to remake my song and that they respect it for the classic that it is. I just think they should have talked to Atlantic Records to make sure things were done right. The biggest violation is from Atlantic Records but what can you expect? Labels are corporations and their whole point is to sell records. If they respect the artist in the process that would be nice, but they’re not required. For as political as Lupe as, I expected him to know that and to have hopefully made them more accountable. I’m surprised that he’s siding with the corporation on this.

Technically, there was no crime committed with the release of Lupe’s version of my song. Technically, the song can be out there but I’m not talking about legalities. I’m asking: Where’s the respect for the code among artists?

No ego, but I know my place in this game. I’m recognized as a legend and I accept that. But most of all, I’m a grown man. The love and admiration that people have for me as a producer and as a man of honor has been non-stop, consistent for over 20 years. That’s based on something that can’t be touched. My music and my character stands for itself. T.R.O.Y was a career-defining song has gotten me invited to the White House. It’s not just because people think the production is dope. It’s also because of what the song stands for. I want my music to touch people but I don’t want to be walked over or lied on in the process.
I admit that my outburst on Monday night on Twitter was based on my reminiscing about Heav and Troy. I think about them every day. I apologize for being emotional about this. I had no intentions of hurting Lupe’s career. That’s not me. I’m known for building up not breaking down careers. Moving forward, I’m 100% in control and focused on what’s good.

Pete Rock:

Who ever Re-created that didn’t do a good job @ all. #nohate

I’m not flattered @ all. Dat shit is wack, and the producer should be ashamed of his fuckin self. Smh

As G-Bo rightfully points out:

It is UN hip-hop to impose limits on ANYTHING. It’s detrimental to creativity. My generation was the best to ever do it. Why NOT jack us?

So yo, the point is, do your thing, sampling is the foundation. Ain’t nobody ask Jefferson Pilot or Tom Scott before producing a heartfelt tribute to a lost friend. And it’s not like they just threw on the instrumental. But, BUT, knowing the resonance and historical context of the song AND knowing that the OG cats involved in the production are around and reachable, why not give a heads up? Ask for a dap maybe if you really think you’re that fly? Humble? Respectful?

One final strategic push.

From Adbusters Blog

When asked about the occupation, the mayor of New York City responded, “People have a right to protest, and if they want to protest, we’ll be happy to make sure they have locations to do it. As long as they do it where other people’s rights are respected, this is the place where people can speak their minds …”

Anonymous says they will release their new hacktivism tool at 7am in solidarity with #OCCUPYWALLSTREET.

While Michael Moore and the rest of the mainstream left continues to be largely silent about #OCCUPYWALLSTREET, American rapper Lupe Fiasco has been vocal in his support. Lupe has vowed to donate 50 tents to the occupation and has written a poem celebrating our efforts.

President Obama will be in New York City at a private $38,500 per person fundraising event on Monday, September 19th starting at 5:30 p.m. at 820 Park Avenue. Maybe we can go there and invite him to join our people’s assembly?

….

For up-to-date information follow occupywallst.org, nycga.net and @occupywallstnyc

Good luck … Hang in there!

for the wild,Culture Jammers HQ

Interesting dialogue between Rhymefest and Lupe Fiasco regarding two popular Democratic Presidential nominees. I am really glad someone confronted Lupe on his public belittling of our democratic system (see: Lupe Fiasco Doesn’t Believe In Voting, He’s Kidding Right?). The more I learn about Rhymefest, the more I respect him. Props. via Hip-Hop Is Read

Going to talk to students and this is what you say? He had to have been kidding right? Link (via)

Another asked who Fiasco was going to vote for in the 2008 presidential election.

Fiasco said he doesn’t believe in voting, but he wants Hillary Clinton to win.

“I’m tired of men, ya’ll,” he said to cheers, “I think that a woman in charge of the most powerful nation in the world is going to empower so many women.”