In a recent interview with Complex’s 360 With Speedy, rising Atlanta rapper Latto opened up about the criticism she’s faced regarding her lyrics about her low body count. Known for her bold and confident style, Latto made it clear that she is focused on making great music and supporting other artists rather than worrying about what people say online. During her conversation with host Speedy Morman, Latto explained the deeper meaning behind her lyrics and pushed back against the intense scrutiny on social media.

When asked about her body count lines, she was direct and unflinching. “Be a boss,” she said, highlighting that her message is about valuing yourself and setting boundaries essentially, don’t let just anyone have access to you. It’s not about judging others’ choices but rather about self-respect. Latto’s message centered on empowerment, not policing others’ choices. She encouraged men to adopt a similar mindset, challenging stereotypes and double standards. With her signature humor, she joked about how some guys are too casual in their relationships, bringing a light-hearted but important point to the discussion.

Check this out: Latto Loses It Over Drake’s “NOKIA” In Viral Stream With Sister Brooklyn Nikole And Tylil

She also emphasized a balanced view on relationships and intimacy, making it clear that she doesn’t shame anyone for having multiple partners. Her lyrics are not about judging others but about the importance of respect and making thoughtful choices. “They’re not deserving of it,” she shared when discussing why not everyone should have access to you, driving home the idea that it’s about knowing your worth.

This open and honest chat shines a light on Latto’s confident approach to her music and personal story. She’s not trying to fit into anyone else’s expectations but making her own way, one that encourages her fans to hold their heads high and set their own standards without feeling guilty. In a time when artists often face backlash for their lyrics, Latto’s grounded response serves as a reminder to own your story and lift yourself up, regardless of the noise around you.

BigXthaPlug, one of hip-hop’s most promising upcomers and a beloved figure in Dallas’ rap scene, found himself in an all too familiar position of a fan angry after their request for a photo was denied. Though this particular incident is pretty small potatoes, it’s a very humanizing reminder of the double-edged sword that is fame and the artist’s walk in terms of being accessible versus leaving your ass alone. It all went down inside a casino, and The Neighborhood Talk shared a video showing the moment when a fan reportedly approached BigXthaPlug and company and wanted to take a picture.

But the rapper turned the offer down politely, explaining that when he’s taking time off, he’s taking time off. Capturing the exchange, the fan’s visible frustration and persistence clearly showed the tension celebrities often navigate in common spaces. BigXthaPlug used almost a whisper to reply, “No, thank you. I have said no to 1,000 people. The first time I took a picture with one person, I had to take a picture with everyone.” It’s an honest admission that reveals a perspective many fans might not appreciate. In the case of people in the public eye, saying “yes” once can quickly turn into an endless line of the same, making private time nearly non-existent.

Observing the rapper interact with casino staff and other figures lurking in the background, it’s clear that he was intent on handling the matter gracefully, without throwing fuel onto the fire. His response was professional in an uncomfortable moment, a lesson that, behind the music and persona, artists have to, just like everyone else, find their way through slight social situations. It’s a moment that humanizes the star and examines the emotional labor he goes through to keep front of privacy as a public figure.

It’s something to discuss about respect, privacy, and recognizing the pressures on celebrities when the spotlight is not on them. In an era when access to celebrities is an expectation, the experience of BigXthaPlug is a reminder that the word “no” is sometimes not a snub but a polite request for a bit of extra elbow room and a boundary that can warrant acknowledgment, even from the most devoted fan.