Ex-Party Promoter Jacob York Speaks Out: ‘Stop Using Diddy’s Legal Parties to Attack Hip-Hop Culture’

In a recent Instagram post, ex-party promoter Jacob York took to social media to voice his concerns about how Sean “Diddy” Combs’ legacy is being misrepresented in the wake of the recent legal battles and allegations against him. York, who has worked closely with Diddy in the past, clarified the distinction between Diddy’s legendary public parties and the private gatherings currently at the center of legal controversies.

“Let’s Not Confuse Legal Parties with Alleged Crimes”

Starting his video, York acknowledged the serious nature of the allegations against Diddy but emphasized that his comments were strictly about the public parties Diddy threw, not the accusations he faces. “I don’t want to seem like I’m defending any of his actions and the things he’s done,” York stated, before pointing out the issue of conflating Diddy’s well-known public events with alleged illegal activities.

He expressed his frustration at how media outlets like right-wing owned Page Six, TMZ, and  social platforms have been linking Diddy’s famous parties to the disturbing claims made against him, including charges brought by the U.S. attorney and the allegations by Cassie Ventura and others. “My biggest issue is the conflation between Diddy parties and Diddy sex parties, which are two different things,” York stressed.

“Diddy Revolutionized the Hip-Hop Party Scene”

York went on to highlight the significant impact Diddy’s parties had on the hip-hop industry. Recalling events he personally promoted, he spoke about how Diddy’s parties set a new standard for hip-hop gatherings, allowing artists and promoters to thrive in a space that was previously closed off to them. “Diddy threw a hell of a party,” York reminisced, detailing how thousands of people would flock to venues across the country, paying top dollar just to experience a Diddy party.

According to York, Diddy’s influence in the party scene also helped elevate the status and earnings of artists. “Before, you had to do a full concert to get a booking. Diddy made it so you could do a walkthrough and still get paid,” he explained, crediting Diddy for breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for artists to secure multiple bookings in a single weekend.

“Stop Attacking Hip-Hop Culture”

York didn’t hold back his disappointment with how the media and some promoters have been using Diddy’s situation to discredit the entire culture of hip-hop parties. He called out those who have built their careers off the back of Diddy’s events but are now silent or even celebratory amid the mogul’s legal troubles. “Y’all act like you didn’t build your entire empire off of Diddy parties,” he said, pointing to the hypocrisy of those turning their backs on a legacy that opened doors for many in the industry.

He also took issue with those who are using the current allegations to paint all attendees of Diddy’s public events in a negative light. “So a person can’t go to a party without being called a pedophile?” York questioned, criticizing the rush to label everyone associated with Diddy as complicit in his alleged crimes.

“Diddy Parties Changed the Game”

Throughout his video, York made it clear that Diddy’s parties were more than just lavish celebrations; they were pivotal in transforming the perception and reach of hip-hop. He credited the mogul with introducing hip-hop to a broader audience through innovative and inclusive events like the iconic all-white parties in the Hamptons.

York ended his post with a plea for people to separate Diddy’s public persona and contributions from the private allegations he faces. “Whatever he did, he needs to see both God, a therapist, and the law. But I’m not going to attack the culture of hip-hop parties,” he concluded, urging the hip-hop community and promoters to stand up for the legacy of hip-hop culture.

What’s Next?

As Diddy’s legal battles continue, the discussion around his legacy and impact on hip-hop culture will undoubtedly persist. For York, it’s about preserving the history and positive influence of the public Diddy parties that helped shape an era of hip-hop and paved the way for future generations of artists and promoters.

Watch the video: