FCC Complaint Filed Against Funk Flex and Hot 97 over Afrika Bambaataa Remarks
New York radio station Hot 97 and Funkmaster Flex, a prominent DJ and television host, have been hit with an FCC complaint by advocacy organization Hip-Hop Stands with Survivors over comments made about Afrika Bambaataa. The latter, a renowned DJ, rapper, and producer from the South Bronx, has been accused of child molestation.
On August 28, Hip-Hop Stands with Survivors filed the complaint, citing that Bambaataa was allowed to appear on Funk Flex’s radio show despite his open civil case for child sex trafficking. The organization argues that Flex, also known as Funk Flex, spreading misinformation and perpetuating harm to survivors of child abuse by referring to Bambaataa’s recent recanting of sexual assault allegations.
According to an interview with Rolling Stone, Leila Wills, co-founder of Hip-Hop Stands with Survivors, stated that allowing Bambaataa on air was "reckless" considering his open case and the harm he allegedly caused to children. "Bambaataa is alleged to have sold a 12-year-old for money to adult men to take advantage of. He has not defended himself, so Flex and HOT97 cannot protect him," Wills added.
In a recent episode of Flex’s radio show, he referenced a statement from Zulu Nation member Ronald "Bee Stinger" Savage, who recanted his accusation that Bambaataa molested him. Flex cited a discrepancy in the situation, stating that the "pedophile word" used against Bambaataa no longer applies. However, the advocacy organization maintains that Flex misinformed the public by announcing Bambaataa had been "cleared" of being a pedophile, noting that 12 other people have still accused him of sexual misconduct.
The advocacy group Hip-Hop Stands with Survivors aims to support survivors of child abuse and raise awareness about their experiences. They argue that Flex, as a public figure, has a responsibility to report facts accurately and avoid disseminating misinformation.
As the FCC review this complaint, it remains to be seen how this incident will impact Flex and Hot 97. In the meantime, the issue has sparked a heated conversation within the music industry and beyond, underscoring the importance of accountability, empathy, and transparency in matters of child abuse and sexual misconduct.
