Hip-Hop’s N-Word Debate: THAT MEXICAN OT sparks controversy
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By Invented Reporter | HOUSTON – 2025/06/22 20:41:48
THAT MEXICAN OT’s recent remarks during a podcast appearance regarding the use of the N-word have reignited discussions about the complexities of race and language within hip-hop. The debate has drawn in responses from artists such as CLEOTRAPA, ANYCIA, and SAUCE WALKA, highlighting differing perspectives on the issue.
THAT MEXICAN OT’s Comments on “Lip Service”
On Wednesday, June 18, the HOUSTON-based rapper appeared on ANGELA YEE’s Lip service podcast. The conversation shifted to cancel culture, and CLEOTRAPA directly asked OT about his perspective on using the N-word, a term widely considered unacceptable for non-Black individuals.
“I feel like I can say it,” OT responded.
OT elaborated, “I’ma tell you why…What the fk are you going to do about it? And second of all, I grew up loving these muthafkas. I grew up fighting with them. I grew up eating with them. I grew up doing bad sht with them.I grew up loving them.” He acknowledged attempting to remain silent on the matter but emphasized his upbringing and surroundings.
CLEOTRAPA challenged OT’s viewpoint, stating, “I hear yoru point, but I also feel like you know when someone else will feel like it’s disrespect. So it not even so much as, ‘What you going to do about it?’ Some people really find it disrespectful.”
ANYCIA and SAUCE WALKA Weigh In
On Friday, June 20, ANYCIA responded to OT’s comments on X, stating, “If u not black. stop saying ni*a. period. Idk why that’s so hard??? idc who u grew up with. if u NOT black expand ur vocabulary.”
SAUCE WALKA, a frequent collaborator of THAT MEXICAN OT, offered his perspective on ANYCIA’s reaction, commenting, “She barely black just like my kids lol.How u gone say who can say the n word. That’s like saying black [people] can’t eat tacos…Ignorance at its finest.” He further defended his stance in subsequent INSTAGRAM posts.
Historical Context and Previous Controversies
The use of the N-word by Latino artists in hip-hop has been a recurring point of contention. FAT JOE, 6IX9INE, and LIL PUMP are among those who have faced criticism for using the term. In 2022, JOE addressed the backlash, explaining, “It’s a lot of woke society or something going on these days and TWITTER and all that I guess they don’t understand where I come from, where I was born or how I was raised or how I lived my whole entire life,” he said. “Now we know, we use it as love. We know that the record states that this is a negative word and I wish we never used it, you know? And I try my best … I been saying this thing … in my DNA. It’s hard. Really, seriously I been trying to stop, but I been saying this since I was born. I tried the greatest level I can to try to understand if I’m offending anybody and that’s cool.”
JOE added, “No one’s going to pressure FAT JOE into [not] feeling or saying anything that he loves or believes in. No one’s ever going to do that. You get one life and nobody gonna try to tell me what to say, tell me do, tell me what to think.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the N-word considered offensive?
The N-word has a deeply painful history rooted in slavery and racial discrimination in the UNITED STATES. Its use by non-Black individuals is widely considered offensive due to this historical context.
What are some choice perspectives on the use of the N-word?
Some argue that the meaning of the word has evolved within certain communities, particularly in hip-hop culture, where it is sometimes used as a term of endearment. However, this perspective remains controversial and does not negate the word’s offensive history.
How do cultural backgrounds influence perceptions of offensive language?
Cultural backgrounds substantially shape perceptions of offensive language. What is considered acceptable in one culture may be deeply offensive in another. Understanding these nuances is crucial for respectful communication.
