Tuesday, February 20, 2007

Where Does Lil Wayne Stand?

An article in the New York Times was just released called "Hip-Hop Outlaw" by Samantha M. Shapiro, some very interesting points are made regarding the Aphilliates mixtape raid.

I have to admit I was a little suspect about the statement that Lil Wayne first issued regarding the raid. Wayne said that Drama would have to "play the game fair." Wayne should have stood behind Drama a bit more, especially since 'Dedication 2' was used as such an important piece for Wayne to gain the respect he has today. As pointed out in the Times article, 'Dedication 2' appeared on the Billboard hip-hop and R&B charts and was widely reviewed in the mainstream press. (Kelefa Sanneh of The New York Times chose “Dedication 2” as one of the 10 best recordings of 2006.) Wayne further explains that it was unfortunate when mixtapes outsell an artist's official label release, cutting into the artist's royalties. What is Wayne saying here? Did he not want Drama to sell so many copies? Either way, the web site Rapmullet.com has Lil Wayne on their front page with the caption “Is Wayne a traitor? Did he side with the suits? We didn’t abandon Drama — will you? Who’s next to jump ship?”

This Times article brings up several questions- After reading the article I have so many questions, like why were retailers still selling 'Dedication 2' after the raid? And why is there a Georgia state law requiring CDs to be labeled with the name and address of the producers?

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