‘Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae)’ Star Silento Faces 30 Years in Prison for Cousin’s Murder
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In a shocking turn of events, Silento, the rapper who skyrocketed to fame with his 2015 viral hit “Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae)”, has been sentenced to 30 years in prison for the murder of his cousin, Frederick Rooks. The news has sent waves of disbelief and sadness through the music community and beyond.
A Rising Star Falls
Ricky Hawk, known professionally as Silento, became an international sensation with his debut single. The track quickly climbed the charts, and its accompanying dance challenge became a global phenomenon. However, Silento’s success was overshadowed by a series of legal troubles and erratic behavior.
The Tragic Murder of Frederick Rooks
On January 21, 2021, police discovered Frederick Rooks, 34, lying on a road in Panthersville, southeast of Atlanta, around 3:30 a.m. Surveillance footage later revealed Silento fleeing the scene in a white BMW. The rapper was arrested and initially denied parole. He eventually pled guilty to voluntary manslaughter, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm.
A History of Violent and Erratic Behavior
Silento’s legal troubles began long before the murder of his cousin. In August 2020, he was arrested twice on domestic violence and assault with a deadly weapon charges. He was also taken into custody for an alleged domestic disturbance and later arrested in Los Angeles after being spotted with a hatchet, reportedly looking for his girlfriend.
Mental Health Struggles
Silento’s family has openly discussed his mental health issues, which were well-documented even before his string of arrests. After his arrest for his cousin’s murder, his representatives told TMZ that the rapper had been battling a “series of mental health illnesses.” He had even booked an appearance on the medical talk show The Doctors to discuss severe depression, but he never followed through.
While Silento was unable to replicate the success of “Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae),” there was a time when he was one of the biggest names in hip hop. The video for his hit song has been streamed nearly 2 billion times on YouTube, highlighting the impact he had on popular culture.
We hope that everyone involved in this tragedy can eventually find some sort of healing. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, please seek help immediately. You are not alone.
Silento: ‘Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae)’ Rapper Sentenced to 30 Years For Murder of … was originally published on The Hollywood Gossip.