Benzino is giving Fat Joe some grace in the debate over his use of the N-word.
Speaking in a video about Fat Joe’s defense, Benzino said he understood the Bronx rapper’s argument from the view of New York hip-hop, where Black and Latino communities have grown up alongside one another for generations.
“This is where I side with Joe,” Benzino said while discussing his own upbringing. “When I went up on the block, I was Black.”
“Everything isn’t hip-hop,” he continued. “It’s not about hip-hop.”
Zino argued that many Black Americans view culture through experiences including racism and police violence, not just through music or neighborhood ties.
“Being Black happens to be a struggle,” Benzino went on. “Of course it’s beautiful. Wouldn’t want to be anything else, but what comes with it in this country is a lot.”
He also questioned whether people who claim Black identity or closeness to Black culture also speak up when Black communities face discrimination.
The Joe Budden Podcast just had a non-Black guest explain why he’s allowed to say the N-word:
— Caleb (@CalebFromX) September 4, 2026
“I am black. Fat Joe is the blackest N*gga you have ever seen in your life.”
Important to note: Marc Lamont Hill was not present for this conversation pic.twitter.com/Z7Fbd1nQyt
“If you’re going to say that, then you got to rep it across the board,” he stated.
“This conversation is good,” Zino concluded. “It’s okay. Just communicate.”