Published: Wednesday - April 6, 2005
Words by Jay Casteel
C-Murder (Photo: TRU Records)
It is kind of ironic how C-Murder carries the moniker of which he is currently incarcerated for. As he continues to receive scrutiny for his rap moniker and violent lyrics, the rapper (real name: Corey Miller) has changed his name to simply C. Miller, based on his real name.
While Miller has repeatedly claimed his innocence, he has recently stated that the public has never known the true meaning behind his name.
"I am not a murderer," he said in a statement. "From the beginning, I have been a target because of who I am, my stage name and for my success as an entertainer and the success of my siblings. People hear the name C-Murder and they don't realize that the name simply means that I have seen many murders in my native Calliope projects neighborhood."
Miller was convicted in the shooting death of a 16-year-old last year, and most recently, had a retrial overturned, which leaves him facing a mandatory life sentence. He and his lawyer, Ron Rakosky, are in the process of appealing the decision, according to the Associated Press.
Additionally, the NAACP is plotting a federal lawsuit for Miller, because they say his lack of a retrial violates his civil and constitutional rights.
"Corey Miller is entitled to a new trial. The fact of the matter is Corey Miller was tried, found guilty and sentenced based on the testimony of witnesses who admittedly perjured themselves," Miller's attorney, Ron Rokosky said. "There is no physical evidence in this case. We requested a new trial. A judge reviewed the case finding countless legal errors and in the interest of justice she ordered a new trial ultimately overturning his conviction. Even though this judge acted properly, the Appellate Court is still denying Miller a new trial, which has never been done before in the history of Louisiana law and is a clear violation of Miller's civil and constitutional rights."
Although Miller is trying to fight murder charges against him, he has stated that the name change isn't for "special treatment."
"I formally change my stage name to C. Miller, the first initial of my name and my legal last name, in hopes that I can finally receive justice," Miller said. "I am not asking for any special treatment or favors, I just want what is due to me... a fair and impartial trial."
The rapper's latest album release, The Truest Sh-- I Ever Said, is currently in stores, and is enjoying success as it sits at no. 1 on the Billboard Independent albums chart.
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