Lil Yachty’s new music is making the rounds online…but not for a good reason this time. The rapper, usually praised for his creativity, is facing heavy backlash after previewing a track containing a controversial lyric referencing the late George Floyd.
During a livestream with PlaqueBoyMax, Yachty rapped: “Put my knee up on her neck, I went George Floyd.”
As many are aware, George Floyd, a 46-year-old Black man, was murdered in 2020 by former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin, whose knee remained on Floyd’s neck for more than nine minutes. The killing sparked massive global protests against police brutality and systemic racism. Many online have found Yachty’s lyric deeply offensive, saying it trivializes Floyd’s death.
And now, it has triggered George Floyd’s brother, Terrence Floyd, to speak out. In a statement to @lorenlorosa , Terrence said:
“I believe it’s inconsiderate. Sometimes this generation doesn’t pay attention to what they say, they just want to make a song and just get on the charts and really feel like the people listening will accept it because of who he is.”
He continued:
“It’s really inconsiderate. You should think about what you’re writing… it may make sense to you but think about the impact to others.”
Terrence explained that he’s been sent the clip multiple times:
“People are sending the clip to me. I want the line changed. Let my brother rest in peace. It disturbs the family’s peace.”
He also stressed the importance of preserving his brother’s memory:
“There has to be a better message behind any mention of George Floyd’s name. So his legacy can live on beyond what Chauvin did to him.”
Here’s Terrence Floyd’s (brother of George Floyd) full statement to me about Yachty using George Floyd’s name in a new song..
“I believe it’s inconsiderate
Sometimes this generation doesn’t pay attention to what they say they just want to make a song and just get on the charts… pic.twitter.com/xPGxOIOCsT— BROWN GIRL GRINDING⭐️ (@LorenLorosa) August 15, 2025
Former NBA player Stephen Jackson, a childhood friend of George Floyd from Houston’s Third Ward, also called out Yachty, accusing him of disrespect.
In a video message, Jackson said:
“Lil Yachty, bro. You been wack, my n***a. You think saying George Floyd’s name in a bar is gonna make people like your music? That shit weak. Y’all the only era that thinks demeaning the dead is cool. It ain’t.”
He urged Yachty to stop using Floyd’s name for clout or attention.
As of now, Lil Yachty has yet to respond to the backlash. Many are hoping he will acknowledge the criticism and issue an apology out of respect for Floyd’s family.
Until then — what do you think? Was this just an attempt at shock value, or does Yachty owe the Floyd family a public apology? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.