A$AP Rocky felt “scared for [his] freedom” amid his felony assault trial. The case received widespread attention in the music industry and among fans worldwide as they awaited the verdict.
“You got to stop yourself from thinking like that. Because that could get the best of you, and you can manifest that energy by mistake. I tried to stay positive at all times. But it was definitely gut-wrenching and nerve-racking, and I was definitely scared for my freedom,” the 36-year-old rapper was found not guilty of firing a gun at a former friend, following a trial in Los Angeles, and Rocky has now confessed to feeling relieved by the verdict. The trial lasted several weeks, with testimony from witnesses on both sides.
Asked if he feared the jury might find him guilty, Rocky told Variety: “You got to stop yourself from thinking like that. Because that could get the best of you, and you can manifest that energy by mistake. I tried to stay positive at all times. But it was definitely gut-wrenching and nerve-racking, and I was definitely scared for my freedom.” His candid remarks reflect the emotional toll the legal proceedings took on him despite his public composure throughout the trial.
“I was so thankful that the jury made that decision. I was really thankful for how the judge was respectful and treated me like a first-class citizen. And I was thankful for my team and my lawyer, my family and my mom for being there with me the whole time,” he continued. The rapper’s mother attended court sessions daily, showing unwavering support throughout the proceedings.
“But I could say my mom, the jury, my girl and everybody, but all praises and credit has to go to God. I’m a firm believer in prayer, and I was praying the whole time he was reading off the verdict. And my prayers were answered,” Rocky expressed. His faith played a significant role in helping him maintain his composure during the stressful legal battle.
“I pray to God for a lot of the things in my life. But I’m not really a religious man; I’m more spiritual.” This perspective on spirituality has been a consistent theme in many of his interviews and music throughout his career.
Rocky – whose real name is Rakim Mayers – is now trying to focus on his future, explaining that he has various projects in the works. The multifaceted artist has always maintained diverse creative and business interests beyond his music career.
“It’s a traumatic situation, but I can’t dwell on it,” the rap star – who has RZA, two, Riot, 21 months, and a third child on the way with Rihanna – shared. The couple’s growing family has been a source of joy and stability during this challenging period in Rocky’s life.
“I got Cannes to go to. I got an album to make. I got fashion shows to do. I got music to make. I got videos. I got sneakers to drop. I got glasses to be the new creative director of. I got children. I got all type of s***.” His packed schedule demonstrates his commitment to moving forward professionally while balancing his family responsibilities.
“Like, nah, why would I dwell on that dark-a** s***? I talk about it from time to time, but for the most part, I don’t really think about that s***.” This forward-looking attitude reflects his determination to not let the legal case define his career or personal life.
The verdict marked the end of a legal process that began when Rocky was initially charged. Legal experts following the case noted the difficulty in presenting compelling evidence beyond reasonable doubt, which ultimately contributed to the not guilty verdict.
Throughout the trial, Rocky received support from numerous figures in the music and entertainment industry. Many colleagues publicly expressed their relief at the verdict, emphasizing Rocky’s contributions to music and fashion.
The case had raised concerns about how artists are treated within the judicial system. Rocky’s legal team successfully argued that their client was unfairly targeted due to his celebrity status, presenting evidence that contradicted the prosecution’s timeline of events.
With the legal matter resolved, Rocky is returning to the studio to complete his long-awaited album, which fans have been anticipating. Industry insiders suggest this new music might reflect some of the personal growth and perspective gained through his recent challenges.
Despite the stress of the trial, Rocky has maintained his creative partnerships and business ventures, demonstrating resilience that has impressed both fans and industry colleagues alike. His ability to focus on future endeavors speaks to his professional discipline and commitment to his artistic vision.
