Birdman Welcomes B.G. Back: Influential Rapper Freed After Extended Prison Stay

Screengrab Instagram Live

New Orleans rapper B.G., known for his role in the iconic 1990s rap group Hot Boys alongside Lil Wayne and Juvenile, has been released from prison after serving more than a decade behind bars.

B.G., whose real name is Christopher Dorsey, was greeted upon his release by rapper and hip-hop mogul Birdman, who had mentored him and Lil Wayne in the early 1990s at Cash Money Records. Video footage from Birdman's Instagram Live shows the two chatting and embracing, surrounded by supporters.

Dorsey was sentenced to 14 years in federal prison in 2012 after pleading guilty to gun possession as a felon and obstruction of justice. He had spent the last 11 years incarcerated at the Federal Correctional Institution in Herlong, California.

Birdman picks up BG from prison after serving 11 years 🔓 pic.twitter.com/l8BPMJeHBI

— HIPHOP CROWN NATION (@hiphopcnation) September 5, 2023

In a recent Instagram post, the 43-year-old rapper hinted at his impending release, writing, "It’s my last #Birthday being buried alive." He expressed determination to focus on productivity, positivity, and peace of mind, signaling a change from his previous path.

Dorsey's early release, ahead of his original July 2024 release date, raises questions about the circumstances, which remain unclear.

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He had actively sought to have his sentence commuted in 2022 with support from notable figures like Birdman and NBA Hall of Famer Gary Payton, among others. However, a federal judge denied his request for compassionate release, stating that he had not demonstrated "extraordinary and compelling reasons" for a reduced sentence.

The news of B.G.'s release has ignited celebration within the hip-hop community. Houston rapper Bun B even shared a FaceTime call with B.G. and Birdman, hinting at a potential Hot Boys reunion.

Photo Credit Instagram/BunB

Hot Boys, consisting of B.G., Lil Wayne, Juvenile, and Turk, gained fame in the 1990s with their platinum album, "Guerrilla Warfare." After the group disbanded, its members pursued solo careers. Notably, Lil Wayne filed a $51-million lawsuit against Birdman in 2015, alleging withheld payments and exploitation of artists. The lawsuit was settled in 2018.

B.G. is celebrated for his contributions to New Orleans' rap scene, with hits like "Bling Bling" and "Neighborhood Superstars." His unexpected release after more than a decade in prison marks a new chapter in his career.