Edd’s MANtra: One More Chance

Late last week, we received some news that should have made me jump for joy. But sadly, I didn’t. From popeater.com:

Investigators are now re-examining the murder of rap legend The Notorious B.I.G. — born Christopher Wallace — more than 13 years after he was gunned down in Los Angeles.

CNN reports that a task force consisting of local and national law enforcement officials has been assembled to further investigate the rapper’s 1997 murder.

TMZ reported that Biggie’s mother is pleased with the news, and I can’t blame her. I wish I shared her enthusiasm.

Hip-hop murder cases have had an extremely low success rate. I attribute it to two things – the stupid anti-snitching mindset that has blocked investigations and general apathy from investigators themselves. There’s not much interest in solving violence among loud-mouthed rappers. If someone busted a cap at Rihanna or Taylor Swift, that might be a different story.

Biggie’s death has gone unsolved nearly 15 years, with no viable leads. At this point, I’m not sure what can be gained from prying open the case yet again. I sincerely hope that justice is served for Biggie’s family. But it’s hard to be optimistic when hip hop’s fallen heroes have such a bleak track record.