Chuck D questions the 'character assassination' of Bill Cosby

theGrio REPORT - Bill Cosby's brand has undeniably taken a hit over the last several months - and Chuck D has some questions for those quick to cast aside his legacy.

Blue Telusma

Jul 13, 2015

Bill Cosby’s brand has undeniably taken a hit over the last several months — and Chuck D has some questions for those quick to cast aside his legacy.

Sunday, the Public Enemy front man took to Twitter to share his frustrations about how this scandal is playing out in the courtroom of public opinion.

While making it clear that he’s not defending Cosby against the rape allegations, the hip hop icon seems annoyed by the backlash, tweeting: “No way I’m defending Cosby. But this wiping history out wit a swoop is akin to Nazi book burning. Context is everything. Phil Spector still plays.”

The crux of his argument being that we often separate the artist from the art — so why is this time so different?

They're taking his name & statues down but is every situation giving his money back to him since its dirty money? #BillCosby

— Chuck D (@MrChuckD) July 12, 2015

I'm saying ppl don't even recall Cosby in pajamas Cigar w Hef at Playboy Mansion 70s parties. Wtf ? Usa folk believed in Huxtable character.

— Chuck D (@MrChuckD) July 12, 2015

I wasn't defending anything but I ain't naive either nor was I a kid in the 80s swept totally by a TV show. I'd already watched Cosby in 60s

— Chuck D (@MrChuckD) July 12, 2015

Question do some of yall start stop listening to Marvin Gaye records because of drug addiction? Attempted murder? Wife Abuse? Pedophilia?

— Chuck D (@MrChuckD) July 12, 2015

No way Im defending Cosby.But this wiping history out wit a swoop is akin to Nazi book burning.Context is everything.PhilSpector still plays

— Chuck D (@MrChuckD) July 12, 2015