Hip-hop Artist YoungstaCPT Faces Backlash for Unsanctioned Mosque Video Shoot

Hip-hop Artist YoungstaCPT Faces Backlash for Unsanctioned Mosque Video Shoot

Unapproved Filming at Habibia Soofie Mosque

Well-known hip-hop artist YoungstaCPT, also known as Riyadh Roberts, recently caused a stir by shooting a music video in front of the Habibia Soofie mosque, located in Athlone, Cape Town. The artist, who is a Muslim, shared a clip of his latest song ‘Alhamdulilah’ on various social media platforms. The clip, however, was taken down shortly after its release.

The video shoot was executed without prior approval from the venerable institution, leading to considerable controversy. The mosque’s board of trustees released a statement indicating their awareness of the video and their intention to “pursue legal measures” to ensure the video’s removal from all social media platforms and to prevent the full music video from being published.

Disrespect to the Sanctity of the House of Allah

The mosque further emphasized that the act performed by YoungstaCPT was not sanctioned by them. They highlighted the importance of upholding and protecting the sanctity of the House of Allah. The mosque’s board took exception to the artist’s act of rapping in front of the mosque, posing as an Imam, and distorting the praise of Allah, viewing it as a direct insult to the religion.

The video has elicited a significant backlash from the public, with social media users expressing their disappointment and disrespect towards Allah due to the video. YoungstaCPT responded by reposting some of the backlash he received on his account.

Legal Measures and Public Response

Despite the mounting controversy, YoungstaCPT has yet to issue a public response. The mosque continues its firm stance against the video and is currently in the process of seeking legal measures to have it removed completely. The board of trustees emphasized that they had not given permission for the video to be filmed at their premises, and they considered the act to be a direct violation of the sanctity of their religious institution.

Public sentiments have been mixed, with many expressing their disappointment in the artist’s actions. One user stated that their respect for the rapper no longer exists due to the video’s disrespect towards Allah. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential challenges and conflicts that can arise when religious sanctity and artistic expression intersect.

Implications for YoungstaCPT

The controversy surrounding this incident has implications for YoungstaCPT’s career. While the artist has a significant following, such actions can potentially harm his reputation in the industry, especially among his Muslim fans. The situation further underscores the importance for artists to engage in actions that respect the cultural and religious sensitivities of their audience and the wider public.