Rapper BG Allowed to Create Music, But Must Submit Lyrics To Government For Review
US District Court Judge Susie Morgan has ruled that rapper BG, Christopher Dorsey, cannot be barred from creating music that may “promote and glorify future gun violence and murder.” However, Dorsey must submit his new lyrics to the government for review before production or promotion.
The ruling balances concerns over free speech and rehabilitation. Prosecutors had sought to restrict Dorsey’s lyrics, citing concerns about his associations with felons and lyrics praising violent crimes. Dorsey’s attorneys argued that such restrictions would be an unconstitutional prior restraint of free speech.
Judge Morgan acknowledged the free speech concerns but deemed prosecutors’ rehabilitation concerns “legitimate.” Dorsey must now provide the government with his lyrics and may face stricter supervised release terms if they are deemed inconsistent with his rehabilitation goals.
The case has sparked debate about musicians’ rights and the role of federal authorities in overseeing supervised release. Prominent musicians like Megan Thee Stallion, Jay-Z, and Christina Aguilera have criticized the use of rap lyrics as evidence in criminal cases, arguing it disproportionately targets Black artists.
BG, formerly of Cash Money Records’ Hot Boys, had significant success in the 1990s with hits like “Bling Bling.” He served a 14-year prison sentence starting in 2012 and began his supervised release in February 2024. The ruling allows him to continue creating music while ensuring his rehabilitation goals are met.
