A clip of Birdman is making rounds on the internet for his commentary on the need for books while speaking to a group of men behind bars.
According to Complex, the Hip-Hop entrepreneur visited the Orleans Parish Prison to meet with the inmates and inquire on what he could do to best help their situation. In the video shared on X by the My Mixtapes platform, the New Orleans representative can be heard questioning the need for written text for the imprisoned people.
“How can I help y’all? Because I have enough power to make that happen,” Birdman asks the group.
An inmate responds, “We need inside help as far as literature, for these guys having books to read.”
“You think having books is gonna…No disrespect to reading books,” responds the 55-year-old before the clip abruptly ends.
Birdman: “I got enough power to help y’all”
Inmate: “Ok, We need books to read”
Birdman: “You think reading books gone help ya..”
— My Mixtapez (@mymixtapez) June 19, 2024While Birdman’s true intentions in his full message are not clear due to the full statement not being presented, Baton Rouge rapper Fredo Bang joined the social media conversation in his defense.
“People who never did time might be confused on what he saying,” explained the “Slow Roll It” performer on X. “It looks like they are ‘pre-trial’ meaning they still fighting charges and can possibly go home. If I’m them help is a ‘good lawyer or a bond.'”
He continued to detail, “The one asking for books probably doesn’t plan on going home (or knows he gonna have to take time) soon and in that case books would be a good thing to have. Just a lil clarity…”
People who never did time might be confused on what he saying. It look like they are “Pre-trial” meaning they still fighting charges and can possibly go home. If im them help is a “Good Lawyer or a Bond”.
The one asking for books probably doesn’t plan on going home (or knows he… https://t.co/O9XPoqDcjP
Later this month, Birdman and his brother, Cash Money co-founder Slim Williams, are set to be honored at YouTube’s 2024 Leaders and Legends Gala, in alignment with Black Music Month.
“The story of Cash Money Records is one for the history books,” explained Lyor Cohen, Global Head of Music at YouTube in a statement.
“Leaders and Legends recognizes entrepreneurship and leadership in black music and culture, attributes Birdman and Slim embody to their core. They defied the odds, raising up some of rap and hip hop’s most iconic figures to superstardom and shattering sales records while doing it. We are humbled to honor the success and look forward to celebrating the music that continues to shape the label’s incredible legacy.”
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