Rhymefest’s homophobic, violent rap lyrics attacked by opponent in race for 20th Ward Alderman

Che "Rhymefest" Smith 

Way back in October of 2010, I questioned Che “Rhymefest” Smith's integrity and his ability to lead the 20th Ward. My apprehension was, and still is, based on Smith's insulting, negative rap lyrics. After all, from the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks.

In a February 28th, Chicago Sun-Times article, Alderman Willie Cochran, who is running against Smith in April's aldermanic election, pointed out the obvious.

Cochran criticized Smith for creating "music" that contributes to the downfall of the mankind. Smith, a Grammy-winning "entertainer", is responsible for a body of work that includes homophobic slurs, glorified gun violence, and misogynistic commentary.

Smith told the Sun-Times that people who criticize his lyrics, have never listened to his songs. He’s wrong.

In the song, Chicago, Smith takes a homophobic swipe at a fellow rapper, by implying that he is “gay as hell”, because he wears skinny jeans.

"Well, let me show you bout things

take the Red Bull

so I can rip off ya wings

I make 'em promise now

to never wear tight jeans

I ain't a skater

so I never rock ice cream

and I ain't dissin Pharrell

but be for real

some of y'all is gay as hell!"

Those lyrics were written by a man who, if elected, has vowed to reach out to the GLBT community. Puh-lease!