Suge Knight Advocates for Hip Hop Union, Proposes ‘Pension for Life’ for Veteran Rappers
In the latest episode of his podcast, “Collect Call With Suge Knight,” the outspoken former Death Row Records mogul, Suge Knight, shared his vision for improving the treatment of veteran Hip Hop performers. Aired on Sunday (November 19) via Dave Mays’ Breakbeat Media, Knight argued that Hip Hop should have its own union, similar to those in sports and other industries.
“[They got one with] retirement and health care and dental for basketball players, football players, even truck drivers, police. Why Hip Hop don’t have one?” questioned Knight.
Making a compelling case for his vision, Knight highlighted the massive revenue generated by Hip Hop and the billionaires it has created in the executive ranks of major companies. He emphasized that the industry’s success was not solely due to the efforts of these executives but also the hard work of artists like himself, Ruff Ryders, Bad Boy, and others.
Knight went on to name specific rappers whom he believes deserve a pension, including Ja Rule, Ashanti, and the members of Salt-N-Pepa. He singled out Treach and Scarface for special acknowledgment, stating, “What they contributed to Hip Hop, they should get checks every month, at least 20-30 grand a month.”
Drawing parallels with professional football players who receive lifelong checks after five years in the NFL, Knight questioned why veteran rappers couldn’t receive similar benefits. He argued that rappers bring more money and influence to the table than many athletes.
This idea of providing financial support to veteran rappers has recently been implemented by the Paid In Full Foundation, which awarded grants to Rakim and Scarface at its Hip Hop Grandmaster Awards. Nas, reciting lyrics from “Paid in Full,” paid tribute to Rakim at the awards ceremony, highlighting the growing recognition of the need to support and honor the contributions of veteran Hip Hop artists.
Check out Suge Knight’s comments around the 9:12 mark in the latest Collect Call episode below:
