As controversy sparked by rapper BIG Naughty’s diss aimed at Swings continues to spread, Giriboy has spoken out, pushing the situation into a new phase. However, reactions among hip-hop fans to Giriboy’s statement have been divided.
The issue began on the 16th, when BIG Naughty released a diss track titled “INDUSTRY KNOWS.” The song included various claims directed at Swings, such as the sale of neighboring rights and alleged assault, turning what might have been a typical diss battle into a broader dispute over facts.
In response, Swings quickly addressed the claims during a live broadcast. He explained that the sale of neighboring rights was an unavoidable decision made during financial difficulties at the company, and that the funds were used to protect artists’ earnings and resolve debts. He also denied the assault allegations, stating that “it wasn’t a one-sided situation.”
Amid the ongoing controversy, Giriboy shared a lengthy post on social media outlining his position.
Giriboy said, “As time passed and I gained more experience, I came to understand his life to some extent.” However, he also revealed that when the neighboring rights to songs he had accumulated over more than 10 years at Just Music—then led by Swings—were up for sale, he opposed the decision during two rounds of discussions and even sought legal advice. He ultimately added that he “came to understand and agree because it was an unavoidable situation,” which many interpreted as lending some support to BIG Naughty’s claims.
Fans have since criticized the situation, arguing that Swings’ decision to sell the neighboring rights—reportedly to save the company and distribute proceeds to artists—is being interpreted in an overly negative way. Some have speculated that BIG Naughty may have created the diss track based on grievances Giriboy had expressed about Swings.
As the controversy escalated, Giriboy deactivated his social media account after posting his statement.
Giriboy had previously left Just Music in 2023 after around 12 years and became independent. At the time, Swings expressed his support, saying, “He was once a part-time worker at a pub, and now he has grown into a solid artist. Giriboy is always my pride, and I want to create a ‘second Giriboy.’”
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)