Lil Jon Defends Receiving PPP Loan, Says He Is Trying To Support His Team

BYErika Marie4.8K Views
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Lil Jon, PPP Loan
Lil Jon reportedly received hundreds of thousands of dollars and defended himself against critics who said he didn't need the money.

Days after it was announced that Kanye West reportedly received a $2 Million PPP (Paycheck Protection Program) Loan from the government to help pay his employees, news circulated that Lil Jon had also followed suit. Immediately, the multi-talented producer was met with backlash about taking between "$150,000 and $350,000, according to the Small Business Administration and Treasury Department," said Rolling Stone. Lil Jon spoke with the outlet to explain why it was necessary for him to receive government assistance during the pandemic.

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“Touring is a main source of income, and since COVID has become a part of our lives, I’ve been off the road for months and likely will be for at least the rest of the year,” Lil Jon said. “Like many other artists, I got a team, and these are folks that help support me/my career … so I’m doin’ what I can to support them during all this.”

Each week, the rapper has been putting on live DJ sets since he can't make money touring. However, those sets cost money. "To do these streams right every week, there’s a lot of production and equipment involved, that I’ve actually had to acquire a new employee that does my video content and tech aspects.” He added, "It’s been important to me that fans are able to view my DJ sets while gettin’ the best experience they can watching from home, so with that comes the expenses and labor.

Lil Jon and Kanye West aren't the only rich artists who have received PPP Loans; Tool Guns N' Roses, Green Day, Weezer, and My Chemical Romance have applied for, and received, money as well.

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About The Author
Erika Marie is a seasoned journalist, editor, and ghostwriter who works predominantly in the fields of music, spirituality, mental health advocacy, and social activism. The Los Angeles editor, storyteller, and activist has been involved in the behind-the-scenes workings of the entertainment industry for nearly two decades. E.M. attempts to write stories that are compelling while remaining informative and respectful. She's an advocate of lyrical witticism & the power of the pen. Favorites: Motown, New Jack Swing, '90s R&B, Hip Hop, Indie Rock, & Punk; Funk, Soul, Harlem Renaissance Jazz greats, and artists who innovate, not simply replicate.
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