Federal prosecutors are asking a judge to allow Lil Durk's 2021 music video "Pissed Me Off" to be played during his upcoming murder-for-hire trial, arguing the lyrics and visuals are relevant to the government's case.
The filing comes just weeks before the Chicago rapper is scheduled to stand trial on federal charges alleging he financed a retaliatory plot targeting rapper Quando Rondo following the 2020 killing of King Von.
Prosecutors Say Song Supports Motive
In court filings submitted ahead of trial, prosecutors requested permission to introduce both the song and its accompanying music video as evidence.
According to the government, lyrics from "Pissed Me Off" allegedly reflect Lil Durk's willingness to seek retaliation for King Von's death. Prosecutors argue the track supports their claim that the rapper approved a revenge-driven murder-for-hire plot.
The song was released in 2021 on Lil Durk's 7220 album, roughly a year after King Von was fatally shot in Atlanta.
Murder-for-Hire Allegations
Federal authorities allege Lil Durk paid five men to target Quando Rondo in 2022 as retaliation for King Von's killing.
King Von was shot and killed in November 2020 during an altercation involving Timothy Leeks, an associate of Quando Rondo. Prosecutors contend the alleged plot against Quando Rondo was motivated by that incident.
Lil Durk has pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Defense Pushes Back on Lyrics as Evidence
Lil Durk's legal team continues to oppose the use of his music in court, arguing that rap lyrics and music videos are artistic expression—not admissions of criminal conduct.
Defense attorneys have also filed a motion seeking to suppress evidence obtained from a cellphone, claiming it was unlawfully seized and searched by investigators.
The defense maintains that the prosecution is attempting to blur the line between creative storytelling and factual evidence.
Key Hearing Scheduled Before Trial
Several pretrial motions filed by both the prosecution and defense are scheduled to be argued before U.S. District Judge Michael W. Fitzgerald on August 13.
Lil Durk's federal murder-for-hire trial is currently set to begin on August 20, where the judge will determine whether jurors will ultimately be allowed to view the controversial music video.