Rap, Rivalries, and Revenge: The Shocking Murder Trial of Young Dolph That Exposes Hip-Hop’s Dark Side

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) — In a courtroom filled with tension and anticipation, the trial of Hernandez Govan commenced on Monday. Govan, 45, stands accused of orchestrating the brazen daytime murder of rapper Young Dolph at a Memphis bakery in November 2021. While he is not charged with pulling the trigger, prosecutors assert that he directed the two individuals who did, marking a pivotal moment in a case that has gripped the city and the music industry.

Young Dolph, born Adolph Thornton Jr., was a beloved figure in Memphis, known not only for his music but also for his philanthropic efforts. At just 36 years old, Dolph was in his hometown to distribute Thanksgiving turkeys to families when he was tragically ambushed at his favorite cookie shop. The shocking nature of the attack sent ripples through the entertainment world, leaving fans and fellow artists in disbelief.

Prosecutors painted a picture of the murder as a calculated act of revenge orchestrated by Anthony “Big Jook” Mims. They allege that Mims sought retaliation against Young Dolph for diss tracks aimed at him and the record label he co-managed for his brother, Yo Gotti. Testimony revealed that Mims allegedly placed a $100,000 bounty on Young Dolph’s head, along with smaller bounties for all artists associated with Dolph’s record label, Paper Route Empire. Tragically, Big Jook himself was shot and killed earlier this year, adding another layer of complexity to the case.

Key testimony against Govan came from Cornelius Smith Jr., one of the two shooters involved in the ambush. Smith previously testified against Justin Johnson, who was convicted of first-degree murder in 2024. On Monday, Smith recounted how Govan hired him to carry out the hit, promising him a $10,000 cut. He claimed that Govan was the one who informed him and Johnson about Young Dolph’s presence in Memphis, stating, “that’s our opportunity.”

However, Govan’s defense attorney, Manny Arora, sought to undermine Smith’s credibility, portraying him as an unreliable witness willing to say anything to secure a lighter sentence. Arora highlighted inconsistencies in Smith’s previous testimonies, particularly regarding his interactions with Big Jook and the financial dealings surrounding his arrest. Smith admitted to receiving a significant sum of money after his arrest but claimed he did not know its source.

In a surprising twist, Smith also testified that he had heard rumors suggesting Govan might be cooperating with the FBI. Arora seized on this point, questioning why Smith would accept a job from someone he believed to be working with law enforcement. Smith countered that Govan was “innocent until proven guilty,” an assertion that reflects the complicated dynamics at play in this case.

While Smith faces charges of murder and conspiracy to commit murder, he has pleaded not guilty and awaits his trial date. Meanwhile, Johnson, the other shooter, was sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole in September 2024 after being convicted of first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and possession of a firearm as a felon.

Young Dolph’s musical career was marked by a series of successful mixtapes and studio albums, including his 2016 debut, “King of Memphis.” His collaborations with prominent artists like Key Glock, Megan Thee Stallion, T.I., and Gucci Mane solidified his status in the hip-hop community. Three of his albums reached the top 10 on the Billboard 200, with “Rich Slave” peaking at No. 4 in 2020.

In a heartfelt interview with The Associated Press in 2024, Carlisa Brown, Young Dolph’s sister, described her brother’s murder as a “very senseless murder.” She expressed the family’s desire for justice, emphasizing that they want everyone involved to be held accountable for their actions. The ongoing trial serves as a painful reminder of the violence that can overshadow the world of music and the lasting impact it has on families and communities.

As the trial unfolds, it shines a light on the darker aspects of fame and the consequences of rivalry in the music industry. Young Dolph’s legacy continues to resonate, and the quest for justice remains at the forefront of his family’s fight against the senseless violence that took him too soon.