Rick Ross Releases Official Statement on ‘Rape Lyric,’ Wants ‘Healthy Dialogue’

After Reebok officially ended its business partnership with Rick Ross as a result of his offensive "rape lyric" featured in Rocko's song 'U.O.E.N.O.,' the Maybach Music Group leader has released an official statement amidst the controversy, which began last month.

Ross previously addressed his words during an interview with Q93.3 and posted an apology via his Twitter account. However, critics accused him of glossing over the lyrics, “Put molly all in her champagne, she ain’t even know it / I took her home and I enjoyed that, she ain’t even know it,” seemingly not taking the issue at hand seriously -- that his words made a lasting impression on listeners.

In the statement, Ross addresses his wrongdoing and his "biggest mistakes."

"Before I am an artist, I am a father, a son, and a brother to some of the most cherished women in the world. So for me to suggest in any way that harm and violation be brought to a woman is one of my biggest mistakes and regrets. As an artist, one of the most liberating things is being able to paint pictures with my words. But with that comes a great responsibility. And most recently, my choice of words was not only offensive, it does not reflect my true heart. And for this, I apologize. To every woman that has felt the sting of abuse, I apologize. I recognize that as an artist I have a voice and with that, the power of influence. To the young men who listen to my music, please know that using a substance to rob a woman of her right to make a choice is not only a crime, it's wrong and I do not encourage it. To my fans, I also apologize if I have disappointed you. I can only hope that this sparks a healthy dialogue and that I can contribute to it."

Listen to Rick Ross' Lyrics on Rocko's 'U.O.E.N.O.'