Italian Rappers Split Over Milan Riots as Marracash and Fedez Clash

Marracash, 47, who grew up in Milan's Barona district, posted on Monday that social inequality is his battle and that he had dedicated his life to rebellion, adding that he expected such a citizen reaction and that protests would continue. He later said he faced heavy criticism for the stance and clarified he did not intend to incite violence but held all of society responsible. Guè, Artie 5ive, Tredici Pietro, Madame and Gemitaiz backed his message. At a concert at Milan's Fabrique, Turin rapper Willie Peyote rejected the idea that violence must always be condemned, citing a violent system, evictions, fuel costs and wages frozen for 30 years. Genoa's Sayf, born Adam Sayf Viacava, condemned a "degenerate ruling class" and argued police infiltrate demonstrations to provoke clashes, criticizing outrage over smashed shop windows and looting rather than inequality or the war in Gaza. Ghali, raised in Baggio, spoke at the Rome Film Fest, urging a distinction between those using violence and peaceful protesters and saying young people must be heard on inequality. Nerone, Nayt and Naples' Luchè also voiced solidarity. Fedez, raised in Buccinasco, wrote a long post accusing celebrities of hypocritically backing a protest against consumer models they promote, asking whether a favorite rapper returns to the front row at Louis Vuitton shows while fueling class hatred. Marracash replied that earning money does not stop him wanting a fairer world.