Hard Times
Here are five of the most infamous murder-related cases that rappers have had to face.
Editor’s Note: This story originally appeared in the Summer 2016 issue of XXL Magazine, on stands now.

“Murder was the case that they gave me,” rapped Snoop Dogg on his 1994 track “Murder Was the Case.” For several hip-hop artists over the years, including the West Coast MC, the lyrics have hit close to home as they face murder or attempted murder charges.

Troy Ave is the most recent rapper facing serious charges and a potential huge trial after an incident on May 25 at New York City's Irving Plaza that left four people shot including the Brooklyn rhymer and his childhood friend and security guard, Ronald "Banga" McPhatter, who succumbed to his injuries that night.

Troy was recently indicted for his part in the shooting, allegedly charged with attempted murder and weapons possession but at press time the details were still unclear.

While the hip-hop world waits to find out Troy’s fate, XXL takes a look back at some of the serious cases rappers have dealt with and their outcome.

Check out more from XXL’s Summer 2016 issue including our 2015 XXL Freshman year-end report card; Joey Badass, Raury and Dizzy Wright talk about The Four Agreements, Madeintyo‘s Show & Prove interview, Bump J speaking straight from prison, Cardi B’s rising rap career, Le'Veon Bell's rap skills, Zoey Dollaz's Show & Prove interview, Eye Candy Jess Taras and more.

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