In February 2019, Flint rapper Rio Da Yung OG was arrested for one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. He (along with 14 others) later began his sentence in the Summer of 2021, which was requested by the court. This largely stunted his burgeoning rap career, which was rapidly growing after the release of his 2019 song "Legendary".
Many rappers in and out of the mitten campaigned for his release – rappers like Babytron, Lil Yachty, and Veeze, and even media personalities like streamer Fanum, who in his "2023 AMP Cypher" verse said "Free Rio ... free the inspiration, man." The phrase "Free Rio" became popular across many rap circles that anticipated his comeback.
On 8 December, Rio was officially released from federal prison. He made his presence more widely known through his Instagram story, saying simply: "Rio Free!!"
Many people were skeptical about Rio getting released. RMC Mike – Flint rapper and frequent Rio collaborator – said that he was expected to be released sometime around January 2024 in a No Jumper interview, but he was yet to release. But countless people across social media are glad to hear that the trap superstar is returning to the rap scene.
Rio has said he regrets the actions that led to his imprisonment, saying on an old Instagram story (archived through Pitchfork): "I’m doing 5 years for some shit I ain’t know was going on but I take full responsibility cause I know what comes wit this street shit."
Hopefully, Rio's release will revitalize his sadly stunted rap career. He is following in the footsteps of fellow Michigan rapper Tee Grizzley by having his own 'first day out' style performance. Rio Da Yung OG and friends will perform at the Masonic Temple Theater in Detroit on 11 January for a "Welcome Home Concert."
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