The notorious rap group the NWA, rose to the very top of the music industry
in the late to 80s to early 90s. These artists primarily, Dr. Dre, Ice Cube, and Easy E were changed the whole genre of hip-hop music forever. The NWA has always been a very controversial group for songs that glamorize drugs, sex, gangs and more. I am not even a fan of the NWA. I don't enjoy hip-hop music, but they have undeniably made a special impact on the music industry, and even if I don't love the music, I can still appreciate the artistry and passion they put into their craft.
The NWA was formed in Compton in the 80s and throughout their career they were constantly in battle with the police. The 2015 Biopic, 'Straight Outta Compton' displays this very well through the reenacting of real life events. They made songs that were very anti police, because of the rough and dangerous lifestyle they had known with them. Throughout their childhoods, Easy E, Dr. Dre, and Ice Cube all dealt with police brutality issues, and their music is just a reflection of their unfortunate lifestyle.
On August 1, 1989, the group got a letter from the federal government that said they cannot play the music they play, which was a complete violation on their freedom of speech. According to an article on Quora, "This letter wouldn't have been grounds for anyone to sue. A § 1983 claim (an action for violation of civil rights under color of law) predicated on freedom of speech requires that the defendant take some actual executive or legislative action creating legal prejudice against the plaintiff, and that the plaintiff's expression be the motivating factor in the action".
Even though the NWA has lyrics that are very against the police, and a lot of their messages are illegal. They still are guaranteed their right tp tp freedom of speech, just as much as anyone else is.
The letter to the NWA from the federal government.
Source: https://www.quora.com/Why-didnt-NWA-sue-the-government-for-infringing-on-their-freedom-of-speech-and-expression
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