Lupe Fiasco releases controversial new song
Lupe Fiasco has released "Freedom Ain't Free (Around My Way)," the first song from his upcoming Food & Liquor II album. And just like many things the Chicago native turns his hand to, it's ruffled more than a few feathers.
In the past Lupe has sparked controversy by calling Obama a "terrorist," but this time it's the hip-hop community he's angered by rapping over a beat that is close to an exact copy of Pete Rock and CL Smooth's "T.R.O.Y. (They Reminisce Over You)." That song was originally recorded in 1992 after Trouble T-Roy, a member of Heavy D's entourage, passed away. It's considered one of hip-hop's untouchable emotional moments. Now with Heavy D also passing last year, producer Pete Rock was moved to tweet that Lupe should have left the song alone. "Feel so violated, the beat is next to my heart and was made outta anguish and pain," Rock added.
Lyrically, "Freedom Ain't Free" sees Lupe attempting to comment on modern day social and political conditions-- but it's likely to be remembered only as the song that tainted a beloved hip-hop classic.
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