In a recent development, a Texas judge has made a pivotal decision regarding Yella Beezy‘s upcoming trial related to the alleged murder-for-hire of Mo3. The judge has approved the inclusion of certain rap lyrics as evidence against Beezy.
Last Monday, Judge Chika Anyiam reached this conclusion after several days of debate between the defense and prosecution, as reported by Fox 4 Dallas-Fort Worth.
Among the pieces of evidence allowed are specific tracks like Mo3’s “2 Nineteen,” which alludes to the shooting incident involving Roylee Pate, as well as Yella Beezy’s “Keep It in the Streets” and parts of “On Ya Head.”
In addition to the lyrics, the judge will permit the introduction of relevant social media posts from both Beezy and Mo3. Also admitted into evidence are a 2019 VladTV interview with Beezy, details regarding a 2017 assault involving Mo3’s associate Roylee Pate, and a 2018 incident where Yella Beezy was shot.
It’s decided that Kewon White, allegedly involved in the shooting, will face trial before Yella Beezy. White’s trial is scheduled to commence on August 24, delaying Beezy’s trial until later.
The defense for Yella Beezy opposed the use of song lyrics as evidence. They sought testimony from Dr. Erik Nielson, a University of Richmond professor with expertise in the utilization of rap lyrics in legal scenarios, arguing against their admissibility in court.
“People found rap lyrics to be far more literal than the exact same lyrics characterized as country,” he testified, citing one study. “If they’re saying, ‘I did this or I did that’ … it can sound like a straight confession. It’s a perfect way to send people to jail for something they did not do.”
Investigators argue that the case relies on far more than just rap lyrics, incorporating witness testimonies, physical evidence, wiretap recordings, and social media activity, among other elements.
Beezy faces charges of capital murder, with officials alleging he hired Kwon White to murder Mo3 in November 2020 because of a dispute between the two rappers.
Yella Beezy has entered a plea of not guilty.
