Conservatives are aghast after learning Robert Kennedy Jr. has joined forces with Hot Boys rapper Turk for a new campaign anthem. Turk infamously served nine years in prison for the attempted murder of a New Orleans police officer and some people apparently don’t think he’s the best choice for an endorsement.
The track, titled “Standing On Bidness” also features Drumma Boy, Boosie Badazz, Jazze Pha and Angela Angela Stanton King.” According to a press release, the song is intended “unite music lovers and voters alike under a message of community empowerment and political participation.”
It opens with Kennedy saying, “I’m Robert F. Kennedy Jr. You don’t have to believe the lies. You don’t have to take sides. You can help me heal the vibe. As President of the United States, I’ll be standing on bidness and helping the community.”
Turk, formerly known as Hot Boy Turk, was arrested in 2004 after he shot two police officers during a SWAT raid in Memphis. One of Turk’s victims, Chris Harris, underwent three surgeries and had bone taken from his hip to reconstruct his jaw. Harris sued Turk in 2006 for $10 million. He was ultimately convicted of second-degree attempted murder and released in October 2012. Needless to say, he did his time.
Boosie Badazz has a well-documented criminal record as well. In 2010, he was charged with first-degree murder in a separate incident but acquitted two years later. He also served prison time on drug charges.
Republicans were quick to point out “Standing on Bidness” isn’t Kennedy’s first controversial collaboration. In 2023, he hosted convicted child sex predator Scott Ritter on his podcast to discuss their mutual opposition to the United States’ support for Ukraine in its war with Russia.
Believe it or not, on my last trip to Atlanta, I hit the studio with @drummaboyfresh @boosieofficial @hotboyturk32 @theauntieangie @djray_ngineer and we’re officially releasing our new song “Standing on Bidness” this Sunday, March 3rd at 4:30 PST. Join us for the drop. Can’t wait… pic.twitter.com/ok7eQUWcIR
— Robert F. Kennedy Jr (@RobertKennedyJr) March 2, 2024
In any event, reactions to the song are mixed on social media. One person wrote, “Any candidate/incumbent that comes around Black folks with that stereotypical foolishness, and ain’t talkin’ about nothin important should be automatically disqualified. Lil Boosie & Turk should be ashamed of themselves,” while another said, ” love the track. your message was important at the beginning – Boosie and Turk both brought the heat! The truth is, music has been a part of most revolutions and political movements. You’re the first politician I’ve seen get directly involved, and it’s to push an important.”
Listen above.