Jacksonville’s hip-hop scene was rocked this month as Ksoo, a once-rising star in the city’s drill movement, was convicted of first-degree murder in connection with the 2020 killing of fellow rapper Lil Buck. The verdict marks a dramatic fall for an artist whose career had been as much defined by controversy as by music.
Ksoo was tried alongside co-defendant ATK Scotty, and the case has reignited debates over the blurred lines between music rivalries and street violence.
The Crime and the Trial
According to prosecutors, Ksoo, Scotty, and Dominique “Butta” Barner executed a premeditated attack on Lil Buck outside an Arlington shopping center. Witnesses testified that Ksoo fired the fatal shots, and investigators tied the shooting to a diss track targeting Ksoo’s half-brother—a stark reminder of how artistic beefs can escalate beyond the studio and into real-world tragedy.
During the trial, attorneys explored how drill rap, with its aggressive lyrics and public feuds, often intersects with ongoing street conflicts, raising questions about accountability, influence, and the responsibilities of artists in communities plagued by violence.
Prosecutors Emphasize Justice
State Attorney Melissa Nelson highlighted the broader significance of the verdict. “Five years ago, Hakeem Robinson and Leroy Whitaker stalked and murdered a man in broad daylight over disputes related to drill rap,” Nelson said. “Today, a jury held them accountable for their flagrant actions. This is a tremendous achievement by law enforcement and our team that removes two killers from our streets. We appreciate the jury for their time and commitment.”
The conviction means both Ksoo and Scotty face life in prison. Defense attorney Chris Carson emphasized that, since this was not a death penalty case, the sentence will effectively amount to life behind bars. Ksoo’s sentencing is scheduled for September 8, a moment that will determine not just his future but also how his legacy is remembered in Jacksonville hip-hop.
Support from the Hip-Hop Community
Even in the wake of the conviction, Ksoo continues to receive support from friends and peers in the music scene. Comedian Lil Duval shared a video call with the rapper during a YFN Lucci concert, joking on social media:
“That boy Ksoo was at Lucci concert last night. I tried to talk to him but I couldn’t hear [sh*t] he was saying [laughing emojis],”
He also posted a smiling screenshot of Ksoo on screen, showing that despite the gravity of the situation, connections within the community remain strong.
The Impact on Jacksonville Drill
Ksoo’s case underscores the tension between drill music’s raw, unfiltered storytelling and the real-world consequences of ongoing rivalries. As fans and local artists grapple with the fallout, the incident serves as a cautionary tale: in the streets and in the studio, actions have consequences.
For Jacksonville rap, the conviction may mark a turning point, forcing the scene to confront the intersection of artistry and accountability.
TPR Take: Ksoo’s story is a sobering reminder of drill rap’s power—and its peril. While his music once elevated him, the events surrounding Lil Buck’s murder now define his legacy. As sentencing approaches, fans are left reflecting on the thin line between fame and infamy in hip-hop.
