Ronald “Bee-Stinger” Savage, who once accused Hip-Hop pioneer Afrika Bambaataa of sexual abuse, has dramatically recanted his claims. Savage’s initial allegations, made public in 2016, sent shockwaves through the Hip-Hop community, tarnishing the legacy of the Zulu Nation founder. Now, in a surprising turn of events, Savage has come forward to offer a new perspective.
A Shocking Reversal
Speaking to AllHipHop, Savage revealed that he had forgotten key details from his past, which he believes may have skewed his perception of the events. “In 2016 and beyond, I had totally forgot that when I was younger, when I was 15, I had a fake ID that said that I was 18 to get into the clubs,” Savage admitted. “I guess with him seeing me in the clubs, what are you obviously going to think? ‘He’s of age, he’s in here with us.’ I guess I’m partly to blame, too, because I never told him I was 15.”
Savage’s revelations don’t absolve Bambaataa entirely, but they do cast doubt on the narrative that has surrounded the Hip-Hop icon for years. Savage now insists that Bambaataa is “not a pedophile” and that their relationship was consensual in Bambaataa’s eyes. “Bambaataa is not a pedophile and, in my eyes, he was doing something that was consensual with someone that he thought was of age,” Savage said. “Nobody forced me to do anything; I did it willingly.”
A Quest for Closure for Savage and Bambaataa
Recently, Savage and Bambaataa were seen together at a Zulu Nation event, further highlighting Savage’s change of heart. The two reportedly embraced and had a private conversation, during which they forgave each other. Savage described the encounter as a moment of closure. “I have prayed to God that this be over and I have always wanted closure,” Savage explained. “And I felt talking to that man would give me the much-needed closure that I wanted.”
While Savage’s reversal is significant, it does not erase the other accusations against Bambaataa. However, Savage’s newfound perspective adds a complex layer to a story that has haunted the Hip-Hop world for years. As the community continues to grapple with these revelations, the focus remains on healing and moving forward.