Lil Wayne recently cut short an interview with ABC News’ Nightline segment upon inquiry of his thoughts on the Black Lives Matter Movement. It appeared that his thoughts were limited in that he did not know the movement existed at all, initially responding “that sounds weird.” He then cited his wealth and fame as a black male as proof that black lives do already matter, and that he does not feel connected to “a damn thing that don’t have to do with me,” alluding to the movement itself. Lil Wayne angrily left the interview saying that he is not a politician, his piece ending with the voiceover that “he is in the business of making music, not apologies.”

Here is the interview for reference. Skip to 4:52 to watch the part I have described.

Lil Wayne speaks to the truth that his position in society is extraordinary; with his incredible success in the music industry, he resides above black and white people alike in his socioeconomic status and influence in cultural dialogue. He is powerful; he is rich, but nonetheless, he should care about the Black Lives Matter Movement.

He should care about BLM because if he had set out to become a mogul in the business world, he would have found no precedent of people of color making millions and enjoying the fruits of success, no racial stereotype that affirms his aspirations, as a black rapper is common but a black CEO is not.

He should care about BLM because with a large white audience, racist sentiments are inevitable among his fan base, and in denouncing the BLM movement, he perpetuates the sentiment among whites that he is of value solely for his talent, that black people who are famous exist separately from average black people, and thus racism, while not applicable to him, is justified and applicable towards ‘normal’ black people.

He should care about BLM because if he walks down the street unrecognizable in a hoodie and sagged pants, he risks appearing as a “suspicious person” and getting shot by a police officer.

He should care about BLM because without the cushion of his fame, he most likely would not have gotten out of prison early.

He should care about BLM because without the cushion of his fame, he would be paid 26.7% less than white people.

He should care about BLM because without the cushion of his fame, he would be less likely to be hired than a white person.

He should care about BLM because if he loses his wealth, his credibility, or his talent, his life suddenly will not matter.