Megan Thee Stallion and Janelle Monáe have received a dressing-down from India Arie over Megan’s recent performance at Essence Fest in New Orleans.
Footage of a twerk dance competition featuring women of all shapes and sizes was shared on the festival’s official Instagram page.
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In the footage, the Houston Hottie encouraged the contestants to give it their all, while Monae, who was stood to the side of the stage, cheered them on.
India Arie caught wind of the video and wasn’t a fan of what she saw, saying that although she has no issues with either women, she doesn’t like what their actions represent for the greater audience that’s paying attention.
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“The issue is what is CONTEXT,” the Grammy Award-winning singer commented. “Humanity does EVERYTHING. But does EVERYTHING BELONG IN A STAGE. No. is everything for KIDS? No. is everything for EVERY BODY? NO. so when we as a culture make something like this main stream ~ it shows a lack of discretion and discernment.”
She continued: “To those in the comments who laugh at anyone who wants these things for out culture you certainly have that right. Just as many folks have the right to want our MAINSTREAM International export – out Music – to show us in a respectful light. Id like to go on the record saying : this wont age well and thats my issue.
“i LOVE Janelle AND Meg the way i love us all ~ AND i dont like this moment. Dont bother debating me lol idc and I DO this. for 25 yrs i’ve done THIS. so. read ponder or dont.”
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This isn’t the first time India Arie has called out the music industry. Last year, the 47-year-old took the viral 10-year challenge (#10YEARCHALLENGED) on social media as an opportunity to share side by side pictures of herself, which reminded her of how wicked the entertainment business can be.
“Seeing old pictures reminds me of how TRASH the music industry is,” she said. “SHEER and utter Trash. The music industry is racist.sexist.deceitful. It steals from artists. Trash. I’ll never heal from all of it because some of it shaped my life in ways I can’t get back.
“BUT! I LOOOOOVE who I am. So, I imagine the journey was meant to be. But those old pictures. The industry made me feel like I WASN’T beautiful. I can tell you some STORIES HONEY!”
While she didn’t detail any specifics, the singer went on to explain why she’s now grateful for everything she endured.
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“But in truth — I was just WAY ahead of my time,” she continued. “I used to really try to do everything right. Now? I do what’s honest. I’m grateful to have been heard! but also I paid a HIGH cost. And for ANYONE who I paved the way for — YOU are why it was all worth it.”
“I HAVE GROWN FREE! And MORE beautiful. And exponentially SOULFUL! So. the journey was worth it. And MY MOST POWERFUL DAYS ARE STILL TO COME! And to everyone who in the industry who hurt, used, sued, played, stole from, betrayed me. THANK YOU. And Also [Fuck You].”
