Fat Joe Sparks Debate After Calling FBA “Broke Black Racists” on Podcast

Fat Joe has ignited a heated debate online following his appearance on Math Hoffa’s My Expert Opinion podcast.

During the episode, the rapper delved into the origins of hip-hop, offering sharp criticism of the Foundational Black Americans (FBA) group, which he mistakenly referred to as “Foundational Black Authority.”

FBA is an identity embraced by Black individuals who trace their lineage to pre-Civil War America or are direct descendants of enslaved Africans. However, Fat Joe’s comments about the group have drawn widespread attention and polarized reactions.

“These rumors were made by radical Black racists,” Joe declared in a clip from the podcast released Saturday (Dec. 21). He accused FBA members of promoting divisive rhetoric and targeting individuals who aren’t Black Americans. “They criticize anyone who ain’t Black American and use social media to attack others,” Joe said, labeling the group as “broke Black racists.”

If you were wondering why your timeline is screaming, “F-ck, Fat Joe!” take a look at the video below.

Also, should Fat Joe have been checked a long time ago? pic.twitter.com/64tL5UQRBl

— Mílagro (@MobzWorld) December 21, 2024

The comments have set off a firestorm of responses via social media, with many taking to the debate of which culture played what role in the development of hip-hop.

Fans of Fat Joe praised his honesty, citing the Latino communities of the Bronx during the early stages of hip-hop. Others have accused him of minimizing African American history and further segregating the culture.