Rapper BG must have all new lyrics approved by government, judge rules

NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) – A federal judge in Louisiana has ordered Christopher Dorsey, also known as rapper BG, to submit his song lyrics to the government for review as a condition of his parole.

The “Bling Bling” artist was convicted in 2011 of possession of a firearm and obstructing justice. He was sentenced to 14 years in prison in 2011. Dorsey was released from prison in September 2023 after serving 11 years and is currently serving three years of federal supervision. He is currently serving probation in Nevada.

His supervision became an issue when BG, also known as Baby Gangsta, began rapping again and performed at a Las Vegas concert with Boosie Badazz, who has multiple felony convictions on his record. Dorsey also appeared on a track with Gucci Mane, who pleaded guilty to federal firearms possession charges in 2014.

At a June 18 hearing, the government argued that Dorsey’s recent lyrics glorify violence and criminal behavior, which is contrary to the goals of rehabilitation. Dorsey’s defense maintained that his music is a form of self-expression protected by free speech.

The New Orleans rapper avoided harsher scrutiny when Judge Susie Morgan ruled against a rule that would have prevented Dorsey from promoting gun violence in music, citing free speech concerns.

Instead, Dorsey must provide the U.S. Office of Probation with the lyrics to any songs he writes before they are produced or promoted, allowing the government to review them if necessary.

Lyrics have been introduced as evidence in several high-profile cases. In 1996, Snoop Dogg’s lyrics were used against him in court during a murder trial in which he was ultimately acquitted. Takashi 6ix9ine’s lyrics were introduced as evidence in court in 2019. Yung Thug’s motion to have his lyrics used against him in his current high-profile RICO case was denied last November.

Lyrics from fellow Louisiana rapper NBA YoungBoy were excluded from evidence in his 2022 Los Angeles gun possession trial. Boosie Badazz was acquitted of first-degree murder in 2012 despite the lyrics being used by prosecutors.

Other modified conditions include Dorsey attending treatment and addiction programs, completing 400 hours of community service and being allowed to work for himself. He must avoid association with convicted felons and be allowed to travel outside of Nevada for work purposes.

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