Atlanta’s Latto has publicly countered accusations that she relies on ghostwriters or copies other artists’ flows. On her X account she posted a whiteboard showing handwritten lyrics for her single “Hostage,” dated Jan. 22, 2023, and directly tagged commentator Joe Budden, who had earlier likened her track “Shabang” to Drake’s style.

Latto’s Jan. 22, 2023 whiteboard aims to silence ghostwriting chatter

In a brief X post, the rapper displayed a photo of a whiteboard with the full verses of “Hostage” scrawled in her own hand . the timestamp on the image matches a January 22, 2023 date, predating the song’s May 2024 release. By sharing the visual evidence, Latto sought to demonstrate that the lyrics were her original work, not the product of an unseen writer.

Joe Budden’s “Shabang” flow comparison sparks social‑media flare‑up

Podcast host Joe Budden previously commented that the flow on Latto’s “Shabang” sounded reminiscent of Drake, even citing a reference track used for the song. Budden wrote that the cadence felt “too soon to hear from someone else,” implying possible imitation. Latto’s response directly addressed that critique, mentioning Budden’s X handle to ensure he saw the proof.

“777” album context: collaborations and comeback narrative

Latto’s latest album “777,” dropped on May 29, 2024, features high‑profile guests such as Doja Cat, 21 Savage, GloRilla, Sexyy Red,and Mariah The Scientist. The record follows her 2021 debut “Big Energy” and marks a return after a 2020 announcement that she was stepping away from hip‑hop due to postpartum depression. The renewed focus has produced chart‑topping singles, making the ghostwriting allegations especially senistive.

Who else is weighing in on the “Shabang” controversy?

Beyond Budden, no other industry figures have publicly commented on the “Shabang” flow debate, according to the source. The silence leaves the conversation largey between Latto and Budden, with fans and music journalists filling the gap with speculation.

What remains unverified about the ghostwriting rumors?

The source does not provide independent verification of the whiteboard’s authenticity, nor does it reveal whether any co‑writers were credited on “Hostage.” Additionally, Budden’s claim that “Shabang” mirrors Drake’s style lacks a direct musical analysis, leaving listeners to decide if the similarity is substantive or coincidental.