Grammy-winning producer Hit-Boy turns a reference to the rapper Allstar JR’s recent Houston shooting into one of the sharper lines on his new album HIStory 2.
On “FRIDAY,” featuring Dom Kennedy, Hit-Boy raps, “Slide on me / I go Allstar JR if it’s a setup / if it’s really bustin’, I buy a Baby Veneta.”
The bar references Detroit rapper Allstar JR, whose real name is Jeremy Christopher Ford, and an April 8 shooting at Confessions restaurant in Houston.
Federal prosecutors allege Ford was involved in an altercation that escalated into gunfire after several people approached him during what authorities described as an attempted robbery. Prosecutors allege a handgun fell during the struggle before Ford picked it up and fired.
The shooting left Louisiana rapper and NBA YoungBoy affiliate NBA Ben10 with severe spinal injuries, according to reports. Deadend Ron also suffered a gunshot wound that resulted in the amputation of fingers.
Hit-Boy Drops A Line About Rapper Allstar JR & Houston Shooting In New Song, “FRIDAY,” On HIStory 2
Hit-Boy’s “Allstar JR” reference draws a direct line between the song’s language and the Houston incident. The phrase “if it’s a setup” suggests suspicion about an ambush, while “slide” carries a familiar meaning in hip-hop of moving toward a confrontation.
The following bar sharply changes the imagery. “If it’s really bustin’, I buy a Baby Veneta” moves from the threat of violence to luxury fashion. “Baby Veneta” refers to Bottega Veneta’s smaller handbag design.
The reference turns the situation into a trending topic once again. Hit-Boy frames himself as prepared for danger while keeping one foot in the world of wealth and status.
Ford now faces a federal firearm possession case and remains presumed innocent unless proven guilty. His federal trial is scheduled for Aug. 31 in Houston.
Released Aug. 14, HIStory 2 finds Hit-Boy blending contemporary rap references with the luxury-minded imagery that has long defined his production and songwriting.
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