Nicki Minaj and the folks at Young Money almost found themselves at the center of a lawsuit after they used a photo of Malcolm X to sell her latest single.
The rapper definitely grabbed the world’s attention when she used an image of the civil rights activist to pimp her controversial song “Lookin A** N****.” Unfortunately for Minaj and her record label, the artwork almost came at a very substantial price.
According to attorney L. Londell McMillan, anyone caught using the image of Malcolm X without his family’s permission could face legal consequences. If you’re thinking about using an image of the activist to promote your own work, then you might want to reconsider the idea. Removing the “Lookin A** N****” artwork from your site is also strongly advised.
“Failure to do so within the next 24 hours shall result in legal action. The initial act and subsequent acts of distribution were improper and ill-advised. Any disparagement, infringement, or disrespect of Malcolm X, and his name, image, likeness and proprietary rights will not be tolerated,” McMillan said in a statement .
The image of Malcolm X used by Nicki Minaj originally appeared in an issue of Ebony magazine published in 1964. The photo shows the civil rights activist holding an M1 carbine rifle while looking out a window. It didn’t take long for the backlash to ensue.
The rapper issued a statement on the subject before officially removing the controversial image. However, the damage was already done.
Minaj explained:
“What seems to be the issue now? Do you have a problem with me referring to the people Malcolm X was ready to pull his gun out on as Lookin A** N****?. Well, I apologize. That was never the official artwork nor is this an official single. This is a conversation. Not a single. I am in the video shooting at Lookin A** N**** and there happened to be an iconic photo of Malcolm X ready to do the same thing for what he believed in! It is in no way to undermine his efforts and legacy.”
Check out the rapper’s controversial music video below. Warning: This clip isn’t at all safe for work. Proceed with extreme caution.
Malcolm X’s daughter Ilyasah Shabazz said that Nicki Minaj’s use of the image was not endorsed by the family. In addition to the being disrespectful, she added that the picture in this context does not reflect the truth of his legacy .
“It is our family’s hope that the true legacy and context of Malcolm X’s life continues to be shared with people from all walks of life in a positive manner that helps promote the goals and ideals for which Malcolm X so passionately advocated,” Shabazz explained.
Were you offended that Nicki Minaj used an image of civil rights activist Malcolm X to promote her new song “Lookin A** N****”?