It looks as though last week Asylum Records publicist Tamiko Hope may have put in overtime to squash defaming rumors about her client Shawty Lo who is experiencing tremendous success in Atlanta right now. Last week, rumors started spreading rapidly across popular blogs and hip-hop sites that the rapper had been hospitalized for over two weeks and was infected with the virus that causes AIDS. In a story grinded by Kwame 06, the article states that he does not have AIDS, and that the rapper has mentioned in several interviews that he has diabetes. According to his new media rep, he chooses not to address the rumors directly because “it won’t change anything. People are going to think what they want to think anyway.” Member Root Beer Jones commented “even if he does have something, it ain’t my business” while Young Beam added “If Shawty Got That Package Then He Still Aint Gonna Say Nothing...It Would Take A Real Man Like Magic Johnson To Step Up To The Plate...”
On Friday, Publicist Tamiko Hope released an official statement on behalf of Shawty Lo:
“After much public speculation and most of it untrue, it became apparent to publicly state that Carlos ‘Shawty Lo’ Walker is not infected with HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. He does however suffer from Diabetes, a serious condition that affects millions of people, particularly those of color. Despite occasional set backs, Shawty Lo continues his rigorous work schedule in support of his debut album 'Units In The City.' He appreciates the outpouring of concern and support for his health but he is doing fine.”
This story quickly reminded me with the rise of blogs, how irresponsible journalism has become. Bloggers aren’t required to fact check unlike traditional media, but have the ability to spread content and a faster rate than any publication ever could. So when it comes to sensitive information such as the Shawty Lo rumors that had the ability to ruin his career, when is it time as bloggers to take accountability for our actions and responsibility for what we post? Bloggers have more impact on their readers and the music industry now than ever before so you have to wonder, when do you draw the line? -Necole Bitchie