Hulu’s upcoming documentary “Rap Trap: Hip-Hop on Trial” will spotlight the controversial trial of Young Thug and Gunna, two of Atlanta’s most influential rap artists. The documentary is set to explore the controversy over whether or not rap lyrics should be used in criminal cases and how it could impact artists’ rights to free speech.
It is set to premiere on February 23rd, 2023. For audiences who are not able to access Hulu in their regions, here’s how you can watch the one-hour long documentary on Hulu.
With “Rap Trap,” Hulu aims to delve into the complexities of the legal system and how it impacts musicians and artists. The documentary is set to feature exclusive interviews with Young Thug, Gunna, and several other people from the hip-hop industry as well as the ones that are close to Young Thug. The list includes 300 Entertainment CEO Kevin Liles, Thugger’s ex-girlfriend Jerrika Karlae, Will.i.am, Killer Mike, and Fat Joe. It will also explore the use of lyrics as evidence in criminal trials. Moreover, Killer Mike is also seen sharing his views regarding the rap culture in the trailer. He stated: “Rap music is judged unlike any other genre like Black people are judged unlike any other people.”
In addition to the Young Thug and Gunna’s case, the documentary will also feature the case of McKinley “Mac” Phipps Jr., a former No Limit rapper and activist, who spent 21 years in prison for a crime that he claims he didn’t commit. The interviews with Phipps and his family will also be unveiled, who will share their experiences and the long-lasting impact of the case. In addition, the series will feature conversations with scholars such as Michael Eric Dyson and Erik Nielson, who co-authored the book Rap on Trial.
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In May 2022, Young Thug, Gunna, and several other members of their record label YSL were indicted on 56 counts related to Georgia’s RICO Act. The charges included drug trafficking, racketeering, and aggravated assault. The government alleges that “YSL—Young Thug’s rap collective and label aka Young Stoner Life”, is a criminal gang with links to the national Bloods organization.
According to jail records, the state had been building the case since 2012, and the indictment heavily relied on lyrics from Young Thug’s music, which sparked a heated debate regarding racism and free speech. The indictment even directly quoted a line from a 2018 Young Thug video where he raps, “I never killed anybody, but got something to do with that body.”
While prosecutors argue that such statements were made in support of the gang’s criminal activities, critics believe that relying on rap lyrics, which are a recognized form of artistic expression, only perpetuates racial prejudices against young Black men, which can have long-lasting repercussions.
Gunna pleaded guilty to the allegations against him in December 2022 in order to be released from jail, but he made it clear that he was not working with the prosecution. However, Young Thug turned himself in to authorities after he was classified as “danger to the community.” While the documentary will be released soon this month, Young Thug’s trial is still pending till date.
