In a heated response to legal actions initiated by Louisiana Attorney General Liz Merl, rapper Boosie Badazz has declared his intention to move the annual Boosie Bash festival out of Baton Rouge, citing attempts to undermine his efforts in the community. The festival, which has become a staple event for fans and locals alike, is now facing controversy over its association with a tragic incident involving a young man who died in an alleged hazing event.
Boosie, whose real name is Torrence Hatch Jr., expressed his frustrations in a recent video, indicating that the ongoing scrutiny and legal threats may force him to take his festival on the road. “I might not be coming back to Baton Rouge anymore,” he stated, suggesting locations such as Arkansas, Texas, Florida, and Tennessee for future Boosie Bash events. “These people trying to take me down, bro. I don’t think I’m going to Baton Rouge no more. I think that’s it for me,” he added.
The controversy stems from a planned scholarship initiative tied to the festival in memory of Caleb Wilson, a young man who tragically lost his life earlier this year. While Boosie intended to use the festival’s proceeds to support Wilson’s family and establish a scholarship fund, the Attorney General claims that Wilson’s family was not informed about the use of his name and image to promote the event. Merl has characterized this as a “dramatic misrepresentation” and a “misappropriation” of Wilson’s legacy, asserting that it is inappropriate to profit from such a sensitive situation without the family’s consent.
In response to the Attorney General’s allegations, Boosie has maintained that his intentions are pure and rooted in a desire to do good in the community. He stated, “I did this out of love… I’m grateful for his dad and all the people who made this work.” Despite the controversy, he believes the festival has brought significant revenue and attention to Baton Rouge, and he remains determined to continue his philanthropic efforts.
Merl has announced plans to pursue legal action against Boosie and his team, stating that they owe an apology to Wilson’s family. She emphasized that the use of Wilson’s name without proper consent is unacceptable and has serious implications for the integrity of the festival.
As the situation develops, Boosie appears resolute in taking Boosie Bash on a national tour, inviting fans to suggest cities where they would like to see the event held. “I’m going to look for some venues this morning… People trying to bring me down in my own city,” he stated, highlighting his commitment to overcoming the challenges he faces.
The upcoming weeks will be crucial as both parties navigate the legal and emotional ramifications of this dispute. With Boosie’s plans to expand the festival beyond Louisiana, it remains to be seen how this will impact his relationship with the community and the legacy of Caleb Wilson.