DaBaby is encountering criticism for a recent music video that incorporates real footage depicting the moments leading up to the tragic killing of a Ukrainian refugee on a train in North Carolina.
Jonathan Kirk, known professionally as DaBaby, released a new track titled ‘Save Me’ on September 16. The accompanying music video, which has already amassed over 317,000 views on YouTube, has sparked significant discussion.
The track is reportedly a tribute to Iryna Zarutska, who was viciously attacked on a train in Charlotte, North Carolina, last month.
Unfortunately, Zarutska succumbed to her injuries, and Decarlos Brown Jr. has been arrested and charged with her murder.
Zarutska’s tragic death attracted worldwide attention after disturbing footage of her last moments was released by the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS).
In the footage, a man believed to be Brown is seen seated on the train as Zarutska boards and takes a seat in front of him.
While Zarutska was calmly seated, Brown suddenly produced a knife and attacked her, stabbing her in the neck multiple times in an unprovoked assault.
DaBaby, hailing from North Carolina, has recreated this tragic incident in his new music video. However, in his version, the rapper intervenes to save Zarutska.
He then guides the would-be attacker off the train, where security personnel are waiting to apprehend him.
Reactions to the video are mixed: some commend DaBaby for raising awareness about Zarutska’s death, while others criticize him as ‘sick’.
One critic commented: “Turning a tragedy into a cash grab moment is just sick.”
Another voice said: “This is not showing tribute, DaBaby is sick bro,” while a third added: “DaBaby turning a real-life tragedy into a self insert hero arc is… wild.”
Someone else remarked: “He is so weird this is so disrespectful.”
Watch the video here:
Another individual pointed out: “He could have provided financial support for the woman’s family, but instead did this.”
However, not everyone is critical of the song and music video.
One commenter on the rapper’s YouTube video stated: “A lot of people are hating on him for making this, but I’m glad a celebrity finally brought some attention to what happened.”
“Wow, DaBaby just gained some seriously massive respect in my book,” added another, noting: “Thank you for having the courage to bring attention to this tragedy. Using your voice for good like this is truly admirable.”
“Genuinely a beautiful song by DaBaby, never thought I’d say that,” commented a third.
What are your thoughts on the music video?
Representatives for DaBaby have been approached for comment.