DaBaby’s latest music video, “Save Me,” has created controversy as the song pays tribute to Charlotte’s Iryna Zarutska, the victim of the stabbing on the CATS Blue Line. The dedication has ignited a heated conversation in hip-hop circles, drawing both applause and criticism.
The project has stirred immediate debate over its tone and timing. For some, the dedication and charitable link serve as a gesture of remembrance. For others, the decision to restage a fresh trauma raises questions about artistic responsibility and exploitation.
With a twist, DaBaby recreates the tragic incident of the 23-year-old Ukrainian woman who was stabbed to death on the Charlotte light rail on August 22. The rapper stops the tragedy from occurring in his visual.
“We are heartbroken beyond words. Iryna came here to find peace and safety, and instead her life was stolen from her in the most horrific way,” a family spokesperson said on September 10. “No family should have to go through this.”
“Save Me” arrives at a fragile intersection of art, grief, and public outrage. The video is interpreted as a tribute or a provocation. Where personal expression, social commentary, and raw controversy collide in the public eye.
CATS officials quickly distanced themselves from the production. They stressed that the agency did not authorize the use of its facilities.
According to a statement, security learned of the filming through the CATS See-Say feature in the transit app and responded by removing the group, a moment also captured on camera and included in the video itself.
DaBaby’s “Save Me” Music Video About Iryna Zarutska
Upon the video’s release, it quickly gained mixed comments across social media. Ranging from fans respecting DaBaby’s artistry to disappointment in the rap star’s decision to recreate the incident.
“I wonder what her family thinks of this,” tweeted an X user on Tuesday afternoon.
In support of DaBaby, a fan tweeted, “Rapper came with his best effort of a message and the internet is crying about it smh.”
A disappointed fan slammed the rap star, tweeting, “Everyone involved, including the actors, deserves donkey of the day.”
Understanding DaBaby’s dedication, a fan delivered a lengthy tweet of approval. They tweeted, “This is powerful. She could have been anyone of us black or white, we as a human beings should be better people. Someone should have done something. There were people just sitting there always looking down at their phones in public spaces, never watching their surroundings.”
DaBaby launched a non-profit to support mental awareness and wellness, known as DaBaby Cares, earlier this year. He dedicated the organization to his late brother, Glen Johnson, who self-deleted in 2020.
The rap star often honors Glen in his music with lyrics that reflect on his life. “Save Me” also speaks to the rap star’s journey that has seen its fair share of ups and downs.
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