Perhaps it was because of uproar from listeners and hip-hop fans across the country, or maybe it was because the man simply loves his role within the genre's culture, but either way, justice was done on Thursday. Mister Cee returned to his post at New York City hip-hop station Hot 97 on Thursday, less than 24 hours after resigning amidst prostitution allegations.
Charges aside, many felt that Mister Cee's stepping down was more the result of homophobic tendencies within the hip-hop community, versus any criminal wrongdoing. Cee broke down in tears during a talk segment on the station Thursday morning, describing himself as addicted to strip clubs and prostitution. Rumors that the most recent incident involved a cross-dressing male drew more attention than the crime itself. Although hip-hop culture as a whole has begun taking steps forward, the thoughtless use of homophobic slurs has plagued the genre. Some suggested that if audiences were more open to an openly gay or bisexual performer, Mister Cee could live his private life privately, without relying on illicit activity.
Hot 97's program director Ebro Darden asked Cee to return, and rightfully so. The DJ's hourlong mix session from noon until one on weekdays has been a staple of New York City radio and hip-hop for more than 20 years. Cee served as a DJ for Big Daddy Kane and helped discover the Notorious B.I.G., both accomplishments that don't deserve asterisks based on sexual preference.
Ultimately, the mix played by Cee Thursday didn't focus on personal or political issues. There were hints of messages mixed into the songs, including tracks like Janet Jackson's "Doesn't Really Matter" and Brand Nubian's "Love Me Or Leave Me Alone," but the man himself didn't preach or make any verbal statements on his own behalf. We wouldn't have blamed him if he did, but it's his life to do with what he will. Just keep mixes (like the one below) coming.
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