Slim Thug defines the term 'thug' on CNN with Don Lemon

Tupac may have popularized the term "thug" and the lifestyle attached to it but other rappers like, Slim Thug, who have maintained the use of the term are left to defend its use and what it really means to be a "thug."

Slim recently appeared on CNN's OutFront to break down the definition of the word with host Don Lemon and the influence of hip-hop in young people's lives and decision making.

Slim defined being a "thug" as someone coming from the bottom and moving up the ranks to success, essentially making something out of nothing. Lemon questioned the rapper's word choice stating it seemed as if he were describing someone who is an entrepreneur.

When asked about his rap moniker, Slim opened up about missing out on endorsements and record deals because of his use of the term "thug." He also mentioned his various charitable efforts that often go overlooked because of his name.

Lemon brought Slim on his show after reporting on a video from Omaha, Nebraska where a toddler is seen cursing at his parents and being encouraged to be a "thug."

When asked his opinion about the video, Slim said that the things that he and other rappers rap about cannot be the sole blame for perpetuating what is being called the "thug cycle."

Slim had this to say:

"If anybody listens to music and is influenced by what a rapper says then they wasn't raised in a good home anyway. If somebody going to listen to a song and do what the song say, that's bad parenting off top."

Check out Slim Thug's interview below.