On Friday, September 9, the Atlanta Falcons football team took to social media to reveal the music video for “Rise Up,” their new team anthem by singer/actor Rotimi.

“Red, black, and white, yeah, we gon’ rise up,” rapped Rotimi while wearing a custom Falcons jersey in the video. The video featured clips of Falcon fans in the stands cheering for their team, as well as a cameo from radio personality and former Rap City host, Big Tigger.

Rotimi follows up his rap by saying, “ATL, that’s my town, if you know the colors then say it loud,” before chanting the red, black, and white chorus once again.

 

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While many could argue that a hype new anthem is just what the Falcons need to start the 2022 season off right, the overall reaction to the song from confused fans, celebs, and Atlanta residents wasn’t exactly what the team was hoping for.

Many football fans were disappointed to see the face of the new Atlanta anthem wasn’t a local ATLien, but instead Rotimi, who is a New Jersey native. In addition, several critics felt the song itself did not represent a vibe that Atlanta is most known for.

Needless to say, Atlanta residents did not waste any time taking to social media with their frustrations. They quickly let the Falcons organization have it!

Even Bankhead’s very own legend, T.I., addressed the Falcons’ choice to partner with the Power star when there are top-tier artists in Atlanta’s own backyard.

“We have so much culture, so much talent in the city, man,” said T.I. in a video posted to Instagram. “So many hardcore, die-hard Falcon fans that happen to be A-list talent in the city.”

“Who did you call,” he continued. “I know Quavo would’ve did it. I know 2 Chainz would’ve did it. I know Killer Mike would’ve did it. I mean, I would’ve did it. I know Jeezy would’ve did it. Bruh, who approved that? Who’s sitting in these meetings?”

T.I. also clarified that he doesn’t have a personal issue with Rotimi and that he’s a “friend of the city.”

 

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Luckily, Rotimi is taking the backlash too hard and has a great sense of humor when it comes to the feedback. During Sunday’s Falcons game against the New Orleans Saints, the ‘In My Bed’ singer posted a video on his Instagram as his alter ego “Mr. Buttascotch” begging fans not to blame him for the loss.

 

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“They’re going to kill Rotimi! Oh my God,” the actor yelled playfully. “We love you T.I., we bought houses in Atlanta!”