Lyrics to be introduced as evidence in trial of rapper Young Thug

Judge says he isn't attacking free speech, but practice of using lyrics as evidence has been widely denounced by major record labels and stars including Jay-Z

A judge has said lyrics will be admissible as evidence in the trial of star US rapper Young Thug, a controversial practice that has been decried by free speech groups and other stars such as Jay-Z and Coldplay.

Known for his distinctive vocal timbre, Young Thug, real name Jeffery Williams, is one of the most successful and critically acclaimed rappers in the US, whose albums So Much Fun and Punk both topped the charts there. He will shortly go on trial in his home city of Atlanta for racketeering, accused of running what prosecutors call a criminal street gang" called YSL (Young Slime Life, also Young Stoner Life), members of which have been charged with murder, carjackings and other alleged crimes. Williams's legal team maintain YSL is a record label and music collective, with lawyer Brian Steel saying the rapper has committed no violation of law whatsoever".