The University of South Carolina recently faced backlash over the use of a song by the late rapper Camoflauge during a women’s basketball game.
The decision to play the song, which was linked to LSU player Flau’jae Johnson’s late father, sparked controversy following the Gamecocks’ victory over LSU.
The Legacy of Camoflauge and His Connection to Flau’jae
Born Jason Johnson, Camoflauge was a rising star in the late ’90s and early 2000s, but his life was tragically cut short in 2003, when he was murdered just months before his daughter, Flau’jae, was born.
The loss has had a profound impact on Flau’jae, who has since built her own career in music, following in her father’s footsteps and signing with Roc Nation.
What Happened During the Game
During the No. 2-ranked Gamecocks’ 66-56 victory over No. 5 LSU, DJ T.O., who performs at the Gamecocks’ women’s basketball games, played Camoflauge’s song “Cut Friends” late in the game.
The choice to play this song—closely tied to Flau’jae’s late father—was seen as disrespectful, especially given the context of the heated rivalry between the two teams.
In response, South Carolina issued an apology, acknowledging the hurt caused to both Flau’jae and LSU fans.
The university emphasized that sports should unite fans and not be used to target individuals personally.
As a result, DJ T.O. was suspended for the next home game.
Flau’jae Johnson Speaks Out
Flau’jae, understandably upset by the incident, took to social media after discovering DJ T.O.’s dismissive response to the backlash.
When one user commented about the song choice, DJ T.O. replied with a sarcastic emoji and “my bad.”
Flau’jae shared a screenshot of the exchange, expressing her disappointment.
“I’ll take my L on the chin, but this just nasty behavior,” she wrote, calling attention to what she felt was a lack of respect.
The situation escalated when another user called the action “classless,” and Flau’jae chimed in, labeling DJ T.O.’s choice as “lame.”
DJ T.O.’s Apology
After receiving widespread criticism, DJ T.O. issued an apology, explaining that she had no ill intentions when playing the song.
“I apologize for playing Cut Friends Instrumental at the game yesterday,” she wrote.
“It is never my intent to disrespect anyone or offend anyone when my job is to have fun and make sure other people have a good time.”
DJ T.O. shared her personal connection to Camoflauge’s music, explaining that she had played it for years, but acknowledged that it was inappropriate in this context.
LSU’s Bounce Back and Flau’jae’s Struggles
The loss to South Carolina was LSU’s first defeat of the season.
Flau’jae had an off night, scoring just 13 points, a significant drop from her season average of nearly 20 points per game.
However, LSU quickly bounced back with a 64-51 win over Texas A&M and is now preparing for another crucial game against Oklahoma on Thursday.
Camoflauge’s Influence and Flau’jae’s Career
Camoflauge, despite his short-lived career, left a lasting mark on the music industry.
His albums and mixtapes from 1999 to 2002 were well received, and his legacy continues through Flau’jae.
Following in her father’s footsteps, Flau’jae has made a name for herself as both a rapper and a television personality, even appearing on America’s Got Talent.
This incident serves as a reminder of the emotional weight carried by athletes and their families and the sensitive nature of rivalries in collegiate sports.
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