Fetty Wap 'Wake Up' video sparks investigation of N.J. high school

PATERSON, N.J., June 2 (UPI) -- The principal of Eastside High School in Paterson, N.J. has been placed on administrative leave as the school board conducts an investigation into a Fetty Wap music video filmed at the location.

The 26-year-old singer, born Willie Maxwell II, recorded the video for his song "Wake Up" at his former high school, from which he dropped out to pursue music.

Because the video makes references to marijuana and features what some school board officials reportedly deem "lewd" dancing, the investigation will look into the circumstances that led to the video's creation.

"As there are procedures that must be followed in securing the use of our facilities, whether all procedures were followed is in question and being investigated -- and will be addressed as a personnel matter," said a district spokesperson, Terry Corallo, according to The Independent.

"The district does not endorse the content of this video," Corallo added.

School board member Errol Kerr told North Jersey News in response to the video, "We need to wake our children up about education, not something like this that I think is just a step over lewdness."

The "Wake Up" video opens with a brief caption that reads, "I went back to my old high school to shoot this video. A nobody, high school dropout now known worldwide as Fetty Wap. Celebrate every day, roll something up, and define your own path."

The video includes images of marijuana use in the school, animations of alcohol use and clips of women twerking and pole dancing.

Maxwell dedicated the song and its video to the graduating class of "Z0016," saying on April 20: "This song is for everyone that celebrates 4/20 all year but still passes that math test. This song is for everyone that might not be in the top of their class or most popular but you still know where you're headed, just riding your own path."

"I can tell you from experience that if you really put your heart and effort into achieving your goals, you won't walk away empty handed. You'll make it," he added.

In August, Fetty Wap reportedly performed a free concert in Paterson for the city's high school students.