Mac Shell Shocked Lyrics: A Disturbing Exposé of Racism and Mass Incarceration

In the world of hip-hop, lyrics are often a reflection of reality, but when it comes to the criminal justice system, these same lyrics can be used as evidence against artists. This is the case for Mac, a rapper who was convicted of manslaughter in 2001 after prosecutors quoted liberally from his album 'Shell Shocked'. His story is just one of many nationwide examples of how rap lyrics are being used to silence and penalize Black music artists.

Kelley's book, Rap on Trial, sheds light on this disturbing practice that has been taking place over the last three decades. As rap became increasingly popular, prosecutors saw an opportunity to use these lyrics as confessions to crimes, threats of violence, evidence of gang affiliation, or revelations of criminal motive-and judges and juries would often go along with it.

The book is a powerful call to action, highlighting the need for necessary change in the way that hip-hop artists are treated by the criminal justice system. Michelle Alexander, author of The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness, praises Rap on Trial as 'an illuminating, powerful, and disturbing exposé' that provides a compelling blueprint for change.

Kelley's work is required reading for anyone who cares about justice and racial equity, according to Robin D.G. Kelley, author of Freedom Dreams: The Black Radical Imagination. With the rise in mass incarceration and the increasing number of aspiring rappers being imprisoned, it's essential that we understand the context in which hip-hop artists are being treated.

Mac's case is just one example of how this practice has been used to silence Black music artists. Detectives have reopened cold cases based on rap lyrics and videos alone, and prosecutors have secured convictions by presenting these lyrics as autobiography. As Johnny Cash's song 'I shot a man in Reno just to watch him die' illustrates, it's absurd to think that an artist's creative expression should be used against them.

Rap on Trial places this disturbing practice in the context of hip-hop history, exposing what's at stake. No other form of creative expression is treated this way in the courts, and it's time for change. Kelley's book is a gripping, timely exploration at the crossroads of contemporary hip hop and mass incarceration, and it's essential reading for anyone who cares about justice and racial equity.

Mac shell shocked lyrics