Uncle Luke calls for compensation from Ice Spice & Megan Thee Stallion: "I need a check"
Uncle Luke, a pioneering figure in Hip Hop, has publicly demanded compensation from Ice Spice and Megan Thee Stallion for what he views as their success in a genre he helped shape.
The 2 Live Crew legend made his case in a video shared over the weekend, arguing that today’s female rappers owe him for the freedom of expression he fought to establish in the industry.
"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 stated, highlighting his influence on the provocative style embraced by the current generation of female rappers.
Uncle Luke says he needs a check from Ice Spice, Sexyy Red, and Megan Thee Stallion because he went to the Supreme Court and fought for their freedom to say what they are saying on records today. pic.twitter.com/jvQ04lHOZA
— The Art Of Dialogue (@ArtOfDialogue_) August 25, 2024
Uncle Luke specifically mentioned Ice Spice, citing her dance moves and provocative performances as examples of what he believes is his legacy in the genre.
He also mentioned Megan Thee Stallion, emphasizing that anyone who profits from explicit content should recognize his role in paving the way for their success. “Just stop by with the check and say, ‘Thank you, Uncle Luke, for fighting, going to the Supreme Court, allowing us to be able to say what we saying on the records,’” he added.
Reflecting on his past, Uncle Luke recalled the legal battle faced by 2 Live Crew following their 1989 album As Nasty as They Wanna Be, which was deemed legally obscene by a Florida judge. Despite the controversy and legal challenges, the group was eventually acquitted, setting a precedent for free speech in Hip Hop.
The legacy of this battle was underscored by a supportive encounter with the late Sinead O’Connor, who, according to Luke, offered her encouragement during their fight for free speech in the music industry.