Rick Ross Offers Sincere Apology for Rape Lyrics

   

After a full day of silence, Rick Ross has spoken out about being dropped by Reebok. The sneaker brand parted ways with the MMG rapper over his controversial lyrics, and from the sounds of it, Ross isn't holding a grudge. "I want to thank Reebok Classics for their hard work and dedication over this past year," he tweeted. "Good partners, good shoe.continued success."

Doing further damage control, the 37-year-old also released an official statement apologizing for the line on "U.O.E.N.O." which was interpreted as promoting rape. "Before I am an artist, I am a father, a son, and a brother to some of the most cherished women in the world. So for me to suggest in any way that harm and violation be brought to a woman is one of my biggest mistakes and regrets," he said. 

Later in the apology, Ross takes full responsibility for the aforementioned verse. "As an artist, one of the most liberating things is being able to paint pictures with my words. But with that comes a great responsibility. And most recently, my choice of words was not only offensive, it does not reflect my true heart. And for this, I apologize.

"To every woman that has felt the sting of abuse, I apologize. I recognize that as an artist I have a voice and with that, the power of influence. To the young men who listen to my music, please know that using a substance to rob a woman of her right to make a choice is not only a crime, it's wrong and I do not encourage it. To my fans, I also apologize if I have disappointed you. I can only hope that this sparks a healthy dialogue and that I can contribute to it."

Perhaps attempting to further prove his sincerity, Ross signed the statement with his government name, William Roberts.