In a new interview with the Guardian, hip-hop legend, actor and director Ice-T reflected on Cop Killerthe controversial song he released in 1992 with his metal band Body Count. This title, which depicts violent revenge, features a narrator armed with a sawed-off shotgun to “take down some cops”.
“If you say something, own it”
Asked about a possible moment of doubt or questioning in the face of the media storm which followed the release of Cop KillerIce-T said: “I never really questioned it, but the pressure mounted when they started sending bomb threats to Warner Brothers. I threw the stone, so that’s my problem. But when other people can get hurt, it’s stressful. I have news for those who think controversy is a good way to make money: it’s not. You get a lot of attention, but then you need lawyers. So don’t say something stupid and then backtrack. If you say something, own it.”
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A song that remains relevant today
Four years ago, Ice-T was interviewed by the Washington Post about how Cop Killer would be perceived today, compared to its initial release. He explained: “It was a song about someone who, in a moment like this, becomes so enraged that he attacks the police. We don’t want this guy. But often you warn people that it can happen. I’ve never killed a cop. I’ve written better songs that are more in line with what I believe today. I was a little more radical back then. No Lives Matter is more in line with my current feelings. We have to remember that the Ice of 32 years ago is different from the Ice of today, who is 66 years old.”
Cop Killer is not available on streaming services such as Spotify, Apple Music or Amazon Music. The song is also not for sale on iTunes and is not included on new CD versions of the album.
Ice-T’s decision to retire Cop Killer was motivated by his concern for the staff of the Warner Bros. record labels. Records and Sire Records, who had received death threats from police officers following the distribution of the song.
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