Young Thug

Why Was Gunna Mentioned During Young Thug’s Trial?

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Gunna’s name was bound to come up in the racketeering trial against Young Thug eventually. After all, Gunna was signed to Young Thug’s record label, YSL (Young Stoner Life), and was indicted alongside him as a member of YSL (Young Slime Life), the alleged gang Thug is accused of leading to commit or incite dozens of violent crimes in and around the Atlanta area. Gunna has also fielded accusations of “snitching” ever since he accepted a plea deal in which he pled guilty to racketeering in exchange for time served and his eventual release.

While some fans, foes, and former friends might have expected Gunna to eventually take the stand, his name actually came up in an entirely different context during the trial as the testimony of Trontavious “Slug” Stephens — an accused co-founder of the alleged gang — continued. A prosecutor asked Slug whether Gunna is a member of a Crip gang, replying in the affirmative.

Since the prosecution’s case against YSL maintains that it’s a local offshoot of the wider Bloods organization, it seems like this line of questioning undermines the DA’s argument. If YSL were really a gang instead of just a record label, it would be unusual — to say the least — for it to also include an acknowledged member of a rival organization.

Slug’s testimony has offered a number of sound bytes so far, with mentions of LeBron James, Serena Williams, and more.

Some artists covered here are Warner Music artists. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.

Why Was LeBron James Mentioned During Young Thug’s Trial?

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Georgia v. Jefferey Williams — also known as the “Young Thug RICO Trial” to rap fans and observers online — has been full of eyebrow-raising moments so far, from Thug’s defense lawyer’s questionable explanations for the rapper’s name and some of YSL’s slang to snippets of his music being played in court. Today’s proceedings continued that trend as even NBA star LeBron James was mentioned during witness testimony.

LeBron came up via a TikTok video introduced as evidence, which featured LeBron James going through his signature round of handshakes with his Lakers teammates in the tunnel before a game. A defense attorney showed the clip to alleged YSL gang leader Trontavious Stephens, then asked him if he recognized James and whether he could identify some of the hand gestures in it. Stephens, of course, answered in the affirmative — after all, James is one of the most famous people alive — then identified James’ nose-wiping gesture.

“Did you hear what Mr. James said as he wiped his nose?” the defense asked. The answer, “slime,” became the point of contention, as the defense attorney sought to make clear to the jury that if someone as prominent as LeBron James — who is not mobbed up or associated with a gang of any kind, unless the Lakers count — could use the term and wipe his nose as part of an elaborate handshake routine, then there’s little chance they could be solely associated with their use as gang signals, as the prosecution has suggested.

Stephens certainly cooperates, noting that the wiping of the nose gesture and the use of the term “slime” is not unique to the gang he and Thug are accused of leading. Of course, we won’t know how effective the arguments were on the jury until much, much later in the trial, which will continue for up to six months.

Some artists covered here are Warner Music artists. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.

Young Thug’s YSL RICO Trial May Ban Cameras Thanks To A New Motion From The Prosecution

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The RICO trial against Young Thug and YSL resumed today, but there may be some changes going forward if the prosecution gets its way. According to Law&Crime Network producer Cathy Russon, the prosecution filed a motion asking Judge Ural Glanville to block video of witness testimonies for the rest of the trial. While audio would be allowed, witnesses’ full names would also be blocked from publication until after the testimonies. The matter of video will be settled during a hearing on Friday, February 2 at 3pm ET.

This appears to be a belated effort by the District Attorney’s office to protect its witnesses from possible retaliation or tampering efforts, something the prosecutors claimed they were worried about from very early on in the case. Witness tampering concerns were among the arguments against granting Thug and his co-defendants bond for the near-year they were incarcerated. Arguably, the strategy was at least partially effective in pulling plea deals out of many of the co-defendants, including from Gunna and Thug’s brother Unfoonk. Despite all of those deals being so-called “Alford pleas” in which they only pled guilty to being in a gang, they’ve face recriminations from fans and fellow rappers for the past year.

As long as the cameras ARE still rolling, you can still watch the YSL trial online as it continues.

Some artists covered here are Warner Music artists. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.

Young Thug & YSL Trial: State Motions To Block RICO Case’s Live Stream

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The RICO trial for Young Thug and the rest of YSL might change in a big way soon, at least for us spectators. Moreover, the state just filed a motion to block the livestream of court proceedings, and their reasoning is quite interesting. Specifically, they name “limitations on the media’s ability to video record testifying witnesses during the pendency of the trial of this case.” In addition, they reference a December 5, 2023 incident in which “live video footage of the trial testimony of a forensic analyst for the State was broadcast by the media. As this witness testified, menacing commentary appeared in the live chat for the broadcast: ‘we will see u later [witness’ name] YSL gunna pop by later.’”

Furthermore, prosecutors in the Young Thug and YSL RICO trial want to consider “a substantial likelihood of harm arising from one or more of the identified factors; whether that harm outweighs the benefit of recording to the public, and whether the Court has considered more narrow restrictions on recording than a complete denial of the media’s requests.” However, they also had specific requests. These include that the courtroom should only allow audio devices for the media’s recording and no visual recording of the witnesses at all. Also, they want to court to ban the media from identifying victim and witness testifiers’ full names until they complete said testimony.

Read More: Young Thug Seemingly References RICO Case On Kid Cudi’s “INSANO”

State Motions To Block Young Thug & YSL RICO Trial’s Livestream

While folks may see this move as highly prohibitive, the State does not agree. “To be clear, the State is not requesting an outright denial of recording in this trial,” they expressed. “Instead, each of the State’s requests is explicitly referenced in Rule 22(G)(2) as an example of a ‘least restrictive possible limitation’ on recording short of denial.” We’ve already seen how testimonies spread like wildfire online, contributing to our public perception of it.

But many might ask what’s more important: public knowledge of the trial or safety-oriented secrecy around it? The answer is complex, but prosecutors and defense attorneys alike want this case to proceed as smoothly and fairly as possible. Hackers already interrupted the trial in the past, so perhaps this move will increase its efficiency. On the other hand, it could leave the public in the dark as they already debate whether these proceedings upheld fair practices. Regardless, with all this in mind, check back in with HNHH for the latest news and updates on Young Thug and the YSL RICO case.

Read More: Young Thug’s Defense Plays Old Rich Gang Song In Court For Cross Examination

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How To Watch The Young Thug RICO Trial

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Hip- hop has seen its fair share of high-profile criminal trials, but perhaps none will be more impactful to the genre as a whole than the ongoing racketeering trial against Atlanta rapper Young Thug and his crew, YSL. While YSL is ostensibly the name of Thug’s record label, according to Georgia prosecutors, it’s actually the title of a violent street gang, Young Slime Life, with the trapper turned rapper at its head.

Over the past few months, it seems all of hip-hop culture’s eyes have been on the court proceedings due to the impact their outcome could have — not just on Young Thug and YSL, but on hip-hop as a whole. Because the Fulton County District Attorney’s indictment cites Thug’s lyrics as the main evidence against him for violations of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act, the case has drawn national attention, with many observers calling this decision prejudiced against a musical form invented and primarily practiced by Black artists.

Because of the case’s import, plenty lf people will naturally want to follow it in real time, and fortunately for them, the trial is being livestreamed by multiple networks, a testament to public interest in the case. Among the networks livestreaming the trial are Fox 5 Atlanta, Law & Crime Network, and Atlanta News First.

In addition, in-depth coverage and commentary has been provided throughout by legal affairs journalist Meghann Cuniff, who gained attention during the assault trial against Tory Lanez for shooting Megan Thee Stallion (she aslo gained the affectionate nickname Meghann Thee Reporter from followers online). Her YouTube channel also includes a stream and her commentary with explanations and breakdowns for those viewers who aren’t familiar with legal proceedings.

The trial is currently on hiatus and scheduled to restart on January 22.

Young Thug is a Warner Music artist. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.

Kid Cudi & Young Thug Are The “RAGER BOYZ” On “INSANO” Album Cut: Stream

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Kid Cudi’s long-awaited album INSANO is finally here, and there are lots of woozy bangers, psychedelic jams, and dreamy croons to take note of. Another killer part of this album are the featured guests, including Travis Scott, A$AP Rocky, Lil Wayne, and more. However, perhaps none shine brighter than Young Thug on the track “RAGER BOYZ,” as the two creatives show off ridiculous vocal chemistry and their ability to pair an instrumental so well with their vocal performances. It’s a guitar-led, low-key, melodic, and subtle trap cut about hopelessness, chaos, and struggle in the world, one whose catchiness and atmosphere doesn’t sully its message.

A big part of that is the news item on “RAGER BOYZ,” as Thugger seemingly addressed his YSL RICO case on this verse. Of course, that’s quite unlikely given how difficult it must’ve been to record a new verse from behind bars. In reality, it’s probably just a coincidence that rings eerily true today as we await what else will happen in the turbulent and confusing court battle. Elsewhere, though, Kid Cudi also comes through with some despondent bars, although his perseverance to fight back against it is the main takeaway. Also, this may seem insignificant in the grand scheme of the song, but it’s always great when a producer (Cudder, Anthony Kilhoffer, Dot Da Genius, THATS NOT IT, and Jean Baptiste, in this case) changes the timbre of certain drum patterns to switch up the beat.

Read More: Kid Cudi Says “INSANO” Deluxe Is Still Coming

Kid Cudi’s “RAGER BOYZ” With Young Thug: Stream

Meanwhile, folks are still dissecting INSANO‘s content, lyrical references, and flow. Whether it’s the sample of an old XXXTENTACION track or Rocky’s apparent response to Drake’s alleged disses against him and Rihanna, there’s plenty to chew on here. But don’t let “RAGER BOYZ” fall under that radar. If you haven’t heard it or the album yet, find it on your preferred streaming service and peep some standout bars below. Also, for more Kid Cudi news, Young Thug updates, and more great music releases around the clock, stick around on HNHH.

Quotable Lyrics
I told the judge, “I’m probably the biggest off,”
I told the b***h she can’t be charging me for Saint Laurent,
Yeah, I told my baby not to break the law,
I told my baby mama, “Careful”, not to get involved

Read More: 21 S*vage & Kid Cudi Hit Hard On Our New “Fire Emoji” Playlist Update: Stream

The post Kid Cudi & Young Thug Are The “RAGER BOYZ” On “INSANO” Album Cut: Stream appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Gillie Da King Posts Young Thug Pic, Slams An Unnamed “Day One” Snitch

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Gillie Da Kid recently uploaded a picture of him, Wallo, and Young Thug that left many fans feeling confused. “It’s Cr*zy when ur Day 1 tell on u [facepalm emoji] Free [spider emoji] @thuggerthugger1,” he wrote as the post’s caption, suggesting that he knows of someone who’s been around for a while who snitched on Thug. Of course, there are plenty of names that the rapper and media personality could be referring to with this, but people were confused given how much the duo advocates for folks to stay off the streets. Why, then, would they want him freed without knowing the extent of the crimes he committed?

Furthermore, that’s what many fans questioned in the post’s comments, especially given the recent tragic loss of Gillie’s son. Regardless, this always is a much more nuanced and gray conversation than what the Internet suggests, so there’s probably a lot of compromise and balance here. Systemic factors are just as influential in these situations as personal choices, and it makes it hard for folks to focus on the big picture. But it’s fair to say that there is certainly more the court or incarceration authorities could do to improve Young Thug’s quality of life while behind bars awaiting a verdict.

Read More: Young Thug Fan Hacks RICO Trial Zoom To Shout “Free Thug!”: Watch

Gillie Calls Out One Of Young Thug’s “Day Ones”

However, even though we can’t hear much of the Atlanta trap pioneer these days, Gillie’s post reminds us that he’s still around and will have a lot to handle and answer for when this eventually resolves… whenever that is. Still, perhaps he either hinted at it already, predicted his legal trouble, or has the opportunity to record in jail. For example, Young Thug appeared to reference his RICO case with YSL via his feature on Kid Cudi’s INSANO on the track “RAGER BOYZ.” “Ayy, I told the judge, ‘I’m prolly biggest off,’ I told the b***h she can’t be chargin’ me for Saint Laurent. Yeah, I told my baby not to break the law, I told my baby mama, careful not to get involved,” he raps on the cut.

Meanwhile, who do you think the Million Dollaz Worth Of Game co-host is talking about here? Where do you think the YSL RICO trial will go next? However, you may feel, drop your thoughts on these topics down in the comments section below. Also, as always, log back into HNHH for the latest news and updates on Gillie Da King and Young Thug.

Read More: NBA Youngboy Surprised Gillie And Wallo With A Deep Question

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21 Savage Unleashes New Album “American Dream” Featuring Young Thug, Travis Scott, And More

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In a triumphant return to the spotlight, 21 Savage has transformed dreams into reality with the release of American Dream. His first solo studio album in nearly six years. The highly anticipated project, released under Slaughter Gang and Epic Records, showcases the rapper’s evolution with a dreamy lineup of collaborators, including Brent Faiyaz, Summer Walker, Travis Scott, Young Thug, Lil Durk, and Mariah the Scientist.

The announcement of “American Dream” was accompanied by a star-studded trailer, setting the stage for a cinematic journey through Savage’s life and career. The trailer features appearances from notable figures such as Donald Glover, Caleb McLaughlin, and Druski, providing a glimpse into the immersive world 21 Savage has crafted for his audience. Notably, Donald Glover and Caleb McLaughlin took on the roles of portraying 21 Savage at different stages of his life in the cinematic trailer. While it serves as a promotional piece for the album, some fans speculate that the trailer could also be part of a larger rollout strategy, potentially hinting at a forthcoming film depicting 21 Savage’s compelling life and career.

Read More: 21 Savage Enjoys Paris After Getting His Green Card

Stream “American Dream” By 21 Savage

21 Savage took a personal touch with the album’s artwork. He incorporated a childhood photo that symbolizes a nostalgic nod to his roots. By doing so, the rapper affirms that he is kicking off 2024 on a high note, marking a significant chapter in his musical journey. Moreover, it all carries significance. Both the album cover and the accompanying trailer delve into 21 Savage’s years-long immigration battle, which began with his ICE arrest in 2019. The storyline unfolds in the visual representation, adding a layer of depth to the musical experience. In 2023, the rapper’s green card status was confirmed in Drake’s surprise-dropped track “8AM in Charlotte,” where the 6 God declared, “Where I go, you go, brother, we Yugoslavian.”

“American Dream” not only marks a musical comeback for 21 Savage but also showcases his ability to intertwine his personal narrative with artistic expression. As fans embark on this auditory and visual journey, 21 Savage’s American Dream unfolds as a celebration of resilience, creativity, and the realization of a dream years in the making.

Tracklist:

  1. american dream
  2. all of me
  3. redrum
  4. n.h.i.e. (Ft. Doja Cat)
  5. sneaky
  6. pop ur shit (Ft. Metro Boomin & Young Thug)
  7. letter to my brudda
  8. dangerous (Ft. Metro Boomin & Lil Durk)
  9. née-nah (Ft. Metro Boomin & Travis Scott)
  10. see the real
  11. prove it (Ft. Summer Walker)
  12. should’ve worn a bonnet (Ft. Brent Faiyaz)
  13. just like me (Ft. Metro Boomin & Burna Boy)
  14. red sky
  15. dark days (Ft. Mariah The Scientist)

Read More: 21 Savage “American Dream” Movie: What We Know

The post 21 Savage Unleashes New Album “American Dream” Featuring Young Thug, Travis Scott, And More appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

LeBron James And Serena Williams Brought Up In YSL RICO Trial

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Every time it seems like the strangest thing yet has happened in the Young Thug YSL RICO case, it manages to one-up itself. Across the past few days, one of the label’s co-founders Tick has been testifying and there’s been a number of explosive moments from his testimony alone. But that may not even cover the most surprising development. That came when the court’s Zoom meeting was hacked, seemingly by a fan of Young Thug. The fan interrupted the trial proceedings while calling for the rapper to be freed.

Today, Tick was back again this time for cross-examination from the defense. One of the strategies Thug’s defense lawyers deployed was an attempt to muddy the water about what signified somebody as a gang member or gang affiliate. To do so he introduced several pieces of evidence of unaffiliated celebrities doing similar things to what the prosecution had alleged were gang activity. This included Lil Wayne’s tattoos, the way Serena Williams was walking, and most notably a clip of Lebron James. In the clip, Lebron does a “slime” handshake with one of his Lakers teammates. The defense is using that as evidence that more evidence is needed to prove somebody is actually gang affiliated. Check out the video of the testimony below.

Read More: Young Thug Back In Court As Trial Resumes

LeBron James Video Used In Young Thug Trial

Before Tick could finish being cross-examined, the judge delayed the continuation of the trial until later this month. Wild headlines about the YSL case will slow down until at least January 22 when it’s due to get back under way. The judge left both the jury and legal teams with a request to use the time off to get their appropriate flu shots and vaccinations.

Sickness has already been an issue in the case responsible for more than one delay in trial proceedings. What do you think of Tick answering questions about LeBron James handshakes during the YSL RICO trial? Do you think the defense’s evidence helped raised the barrier for proof of gang affiliation? Let us know in the comment section below.

Read More: Meek Mill Weighs In On Young Thug’s Trial

[Via]

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Why Did Young Thug’s ‘Lifestyle’ Play During The YSL RICO Trial?

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The racketeering trial against Young Thug and his record label, YSL Records, continued this week after being delayed by a stabbing involving one of the defendants. However, it didn’t take long for the trial to endure further interruptions. The Zoom call through which several of the participants were streaming experienced a break-in from a fan, who shouted “Free Thug! Mistrial!” several times before the stream was cut.

As the trial continued today, a more run-of-the-mill video was played in court: That of Rich Gang’s 2014 hit “Lifestyle” which featured Young Thug and fellow Atlanta rapper Rich Homie Quan. The video was apparently played by Young Thug’s lawyer Brian Steel as part of a line of questioning toward witness Trontavious “Tick” Stephen.

According to legal affairs reporter Meghan Cuniff, who has followed and reported the trial via livestream, the lawyer aims to demonstrate that Tick’s cooperation comes from his eagerness to cut his own sentence short, rather than any particular knowledge of alleged misdeeds committed by the supposed “gang,” YSL. From the clip played, it’s unclear how it’d play into Steel’s line of questioning, but according to Cuniff, the judge did not allow it to be admitted as evidence, preferring that it be submitted during a different testimony.

Unfortunately, as Cuniff points out, Steel won’t have much of an opportunity to do so for a while; Judge Ural Glanville has recessed the trial until January 22.

Young Thug is a Warner Music artist. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.