The University of South Carolina athletics department found itself embroiled in controversy following a women’s basketball game against LSU on Friday, February 9, 2024. The incident stemmed from the post-game music selection by the official DJ, DJ T.O., who played the instrumental version of “Cut Friends” by the late rapper Camoflauge. This seemingly innocuous act sparked outrage due to the song’s connection to LSU star player Flau’jae Johnson, whose father, Camoflauge, was tragically murdered months before her birth.
The controversy escalated as DJ T.O. re-shared a social media post about the song, adding “My bad” accompanied by a cry-laughing emoji, which was perceived as insensitive and disrespectful. Flau’jae Johnson, a talented rapper herself who dedicates her career to her father’s memory, publicly expressed her disapproval on social media, calling out the DJ for the “nasty behavior” and emphasizing the gravity of the situation.
The University of South Carolina swiftly responded to the incident, issuing a statement acknowledging the inappropriateness of the song selection and the subsequent social media post. The university recognized the emotional distress caused to Flau’jae Johnson and her family, as well as the disrespect shown to the LSU program and its fans. The statement emphasized the importance of healthy competition and respect within collegiate sports, condemning the personal targeting of individual players.
The university expressed regret that such an incident occurred in their venue, particularly after a game that garnered significant national attention for women’s basketball. They apologized to Flau’jae Johnson, her family, and the LSU community, reiterating their commitment to fostering a positive and respectful environment for all athletes and fans.
As a consequence of her actions, DJ T.O. was suspended for the next women’s basketball home game. The university also committed to meeting with the DJ to provide further education on the institution’s expectations for behavior and conduct, emphasizing the importance of sensitivity and respect in all aspects of their role.
This incident highlights the power of music and its potential to evoke deep emotions, particularly in the context of personal tragedy. The controversy underscored the need for careful consideration and sensitivity when making musical selections, especially in public settings where diverse audiences may be present. It also served as a reminder that seemingly harmless actions can have unintended consequences, particularly in the age of social media where information spreads rapidly and interpretations can vary.
The University of South Carolina’s response reflected a commitment to addressing the situation responsibly. The swift action taken against the DJ, coupled with the commitment to further education, demonstrated a proactive approach towards fostering a more inclusive and respectful environment within the university’s athletic programs. The incident also sparked a broader conversation about the role of music in sports and the importance of considering the potential impact of song choices on individuals and communities. It served as a reminder that seemingly trivial decisions can carry significant weight, particularly when they intersect with personal tragedies and sensitivities. The controversy surrounding the music selection underscored the importance of thoughtful consideration and empathy in all aspects of public life, including the entertainment provided at sporting events.
