Derby City Council has defended the use of a musical excerpt from Dr Dre's 1999 hit ‘Still D.R.E.’ at its annual Mayor Making ceremony, after a councillor branded the choice 'highly inappropriate.'
The track was selected by outgoing mayor, Liberal Democrat councillor Ajit Atwal, as part of a tradition allowing incoming and outgoing mayors to choose a brief piece of music to add a personal touch to the formal occasion.
A council spokesperson said only a ‘short instrumental segment’ was played and that it ‘does not represent an endorsement of the full track or its lyrics.’ The council added that it supports civic leaders in ‘bringing their own personalities and a modern twist to these historic roles.’
The spokesperson emphasised that the ceremony's focus remains on ‘celebrating the transition of office and the outgoing Mayor's dedicated service, having worked tirelessly for the community over the past year.’
