US Rapper Killer Mike Detained at Grammy Awards but Sweeps Rap Categories
US rapper Killer Mike faced a minor setback at the Grammy Awards ceremony, but it didn’t dampen his spirits as he emerged victorious in three major rap categories. The Los Angeles police department detained him in relation to a physical altercation inside the event venue on Sunday. However, Killer Mike, whose real name is Michael Render, brushed off the incident, referring to it as “a speed bump” on an otherwise memorable night.
The 48-year-old rapper was booked on a misdemeanour battery charge but was later released. He is scheduled to appear in court later this month. Speaking on an Atlanta-based radio show after his release, Killer Mike downplayed the incident and focused on the positive aspects of the evening. “We hit a speed bump and then we head back to the party, man,” he said. “We partied all night. Ain’t nothing had happened, man. But we winners. That’s it.”
According to reports, Killer Mike attributed the altercation to “overzealous security.” Video footage from the scene showed the Run the Jewels rapper being escorted out of the Crypto.com arena in downtown Los Angeles by police officers. Eyewitnesses claimed they heard someone shouting “free Mike” as he was led away.
Interestingly, Killer Mike’s arrest occurred just before the prime-time Grammys broadcast began. However, prior to the televised portion of the event, he had already made his mark by sweeping all three awards for which he had been nominated. His song “Scientists & Engineers,” featuring André 3000, Future, and Eryn Allen Kane, won the awards for best rap song and best rap performance, triumphing over top stars like Drake and Nicki Minaj. In addition, his album “Michael” secured him a third award for best rap album.
As he accepted his third Grammy of the night, Killer Mike expressed his unwavering belief in the power of dreams and defying age limits. “You cannot tell me that you get too old, you can’t tell me it’s too late, you can’t tell me dreams don’t come true!” he exclaimed. “It is a sweep! It is a sweep! It is a sweep!”
While this may be Killer Mike’s first Grammy win as a solo artist, he previously won a Grammy in 2003 for a song he collaborated on with Outkast. Hailing from Georgia, Killer Mike has been an outspoken advocate for the rights and issues faced by black Americans, including police brutality and systemic racism. He has also been a prominent supporter of Bernie Sanders’ presidential campaigns in 2016 and 2020. Just last week, he declined to endorse Joe Biden for re-election on the Real Time with Bill Maher Show.
Although Taylor Swift dominated the Grammy Awards with her historic fourth win for best album, Killer Mike’s triumph in the rap categories showcased his talent and dedication to his craft. His resilience in the face of adversity and commitment to addressing social issues have solidified his position as a respected figure in the music industry. As he continues to make waves with his powerful lyrics and thought-provoking activism, Killer Mike’s influence is sure to extend far beyond the Grammy stage.