In a recent video posted online, 2 Live Crew's Uncle Luke has made a bold demand for compensation from contemporary female rappers Ice Spice and Megan Thee Stallion. The iconic rapper and activist, known for his fight for freedom of expression in Hip Hop, believes that he is owed recognition and financial compensation for paving the way for today’s provocative female artists.
In his video, Uncle Luke expressed frustration over what he perceives as a lack of acknowledgment from current female rappers who, he argues, have benefited from the freedoms he fought to secure. "Male rap is on some bullshit right now, I’m sorry. The females are winning. They’re doing everything that I did. I’m still waiting for these girls to send me a fucking check," he said.
Specifically calling out Ice Spice and Megan Thee Stallion, Luke elaborated, "I need a check from Ice Spice who turns her ass around, dropping it like it’s hot and doo-doo browning. I need a check from Sexyy Red — nah, Red’s my friend. My man Stan. Shouts out to Stan, Stan the man. I don’t need a check from him. That’s my dog, that’s his record company."
Luke’s remarks emphasize his belief that his legal battles in the late 1980s and early 1990s, particularly the Supreme Court case involving 2 Live Crew’s controversial album "As Nasty as They Wanna Be," were crucial in securing the freedom of expression that artists today enjoy. He argues that his fight helped establish the environment in which contemporary artists can freely explore provocative themes in their music.
The legal challenges faced by 2 Live Crew, which included accusations of obscenity and a subsequent trial, were pivotal moments in the fight for artistic freedom in the music industry. Luke has often reflected on the importance of this struggle, recalling the support he received from figures like the late Sinead O'Connor.
As Ice Spice and Megan Thee Stallion continue to make waves in the industry, Uncle Luke’s demand for recognition and compensation highlights ongoing conversations about the legacy and impact of past artists on current trends in Hip Hop.
