The use of lyrics as evidence has a chilling effect on hip-hop culture. Rappers may be forced to self-censor, fearing their music will be used against them in court.

From Rick Ross to Lizzo and more, rappers have been dropping controversial and questionable lyrics for years. Here are questionable lyrics that got rappers in trouble.

Rappers name-checking consumer products, such as brand-name shoes and jewelry, is almost as old as the genre itself Primarily, referencing consumers in lyrics can inadvertently promote materialism ...

It's certainly not the first time a rapper's lyrics have come under scrutiny by a criminal court, raising concerns about free speech. We've called Alexandra Kazarian.