The internet has been buzzing about several high-profile musicians are facing accusations of misusing millions of dollars in government-issued COVID-19 relief funds. The funds, distributed through the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG), were designed to support independent venues and performers financially impacted by the pandemic. However, reports suggest that Lil Wayne, ChrisBrown, and Marshmello may have exploited the program for personal gain.
The SVOG program, launched in 2020, aimed to help struggling businesses stay afloat during lockdowns. Yet, its oversight has come under fire as wealthy artists allegedly diverted funds toward luxury lifestyles instead of business recovery.
Lil Wayne’s Alleged Misuse According to Business Insider, Lil Wayne received an $8.9 million grant. Reports indicate he spent $1.3 million on private jets and $460,000 on high-end fashion brands like Gucci and Balenciaga. Additionally, $175,000 was used to promote his marijuana brand, GKUA, during a music festival. Shockingly, nearly $15,000 went toward flights and luxury hotel stays for women unrelated to his touring operations (Business Insider, 2024).
Chris Brown’s Extravagant Spending Chris Brown’s company, CBE Touring, reportedly secured $10 million in SVOG funds. Of this, Brown allegedly pocketed $5.1 million for himself. Reports claim he spent close to $80,000 on his 33rd birthday party, including expenses for "atmosphere models," an LED dance floor, bottle service, hookahs, and nitrogen ice cream (Business Insider, 2024).
Marshmello’s Controversial Payments DJ and producer Marshmello reportedly obtained $9.9 million in relief funds. While details of his spending remain unclear, he allegedly justified large payments to himself based on prior earnings. Critics argue this demonstrates a systemic flaw in the program’s design, which focused solely on revenue losses rather than overall financial need (Business Insider, 2024).
A Larger Pattern of Misuse? Reports also mention other artists, including Steve Aoki and members of Alice Cooper’s band, who may have similarly misused funds. The Small Business Administration (SBA), which oversaw the SVOG program, has faced criticism for lax oversight, allowing wealthy individuals to access relief funds meant for those in greater need (Business Insider, 2024).
Calls for Accountability Although no formal charges or legal actions have been taken against the artists, the allegations have sparked public outrage. Critics demand tighter controls and stricter eligibility requirements for relief programs moving forward.
Conclusion The controversy highlights a troubling disconnect between the program’s intent and its execution. While the SVOG funds were meant to preserve livelihoods during a crisis, their alleged misuse by wealthy artists underscores the need for reform and accountability in government aid distribution.
Stay tuned as this story develops and follow us for updates on investigations into this high-profile scandal.
Sources
Business Insider. (2024). "How rich musicians billed American taxpayers for luxury hotels, shopping sprees, and million-dollar bonuses." Available at: https://www.businessinsider.com/lil-wayne-chris-brown-covid-relief-funds-svog-grant-2024-12
Pitchfork. (2024). "Lil Wayne, Chris Brown, and More Misused Millions in COVID-19 Relief Money for Luxury Purchases: Report." Available at: https://pitchfork.com/news/lil-wayne-chris-brown-misused-millions-in-covid-19-relief-money-for-luxury-purchases-report
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