India Arie has caught heat after judging the sexualised stage antics from the likes of and Janelle Monae.Â
Savage rapper Megan and I Like That singer Janelle were among the performers who hit the stage at this year’s Essence Music Festival in New Orleans, Louisana last weekend.
In a highlights clip shared on the publication’s Instagram page, Megan, 28, was seen hosting a twerking bootcamp on-stage while Janelle, 36, assisted the rapper.Â
During the weekend, Janelle also caused a stir after exposing her breast mid-performance.
However, the twerking antics apparently proved to be too much for neo-soul singer India, who seemed to criticise the stars’ sexualised performances.
Commenting under the highlights video, the I Am Not My Hair singer, 47, wrote: ‘The issue is what is CONTEXT. Humanity does EVERYTHING. But does EVERYTHING BELONG IN A STAGE. No.Â
‘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 [sic].’
She continued: ‘To those in the comments who laugh at anyone who wants these things for [our] culture you certainly have that right.
‘Just as many folks have the right to want our MAINSTREAM International export – [our] Music – to show us in a respectful light. Id like to go on the record saying : this wont age well and thats my issue [sic].’
India did make it clear that she was a fan of Megan and Janelle, adding: ‘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 [sic].’
Followers were quick to accuse India of shaming the younger artists, with one pointing out: ‘India Arie made a song that literally said not to judge women, regardless of what they wear and do, but she goes on ahead and does the complete opposite. LMAO!’Â
Another questioned: ‘Did india arie reach out and check on Meg after she was shot…or during the trial against the leprechaun…since she loves her.’Â
However, others agreed with India’s views and she received a fair amount of support from those who feel Megan and Janelle need to tone down their stage shows.
One wrote: ‘India Arie is saying what we are all thinking this shyt needs to fizzle out quick.’
Another said: ‘India Arie is right. Y’all knew that though. Attacking her character, words or actions won’t change our reality. Choice feminism & hyper sexuality has our community/culture in a chokehold that will negatively affect the next 2 generations. But most can’t see past next week so.’
India later doubled down on her earlier comments but insisted she was not judging or shaming anyone.Â
‘I hate defending simple logic, so I’m going to say this,’ she wrote in her Instagram stories. ‘This is not an issue with any of my sisters. Period. I’m an old school long time affirming voice for women. My record speaks for it’s self [sic]… And all I’m saying is context matters.
‘Debate that if you want, lol .. but I said what I said. And why did I say it? Because just like everyone else, I am entitled to my [opinion]. But also, I do this work. My whole adult life the work of uplifting loving and affirming and supporting the wellness or Black woman and all people at large.’
She continued later in the lengthy message: ‘I do not make a practice of publicly criticising my sisters. My thoughts are around Essence Festival and context.’
