Janet Jackson stirred up controversy this weekend along with her comments on Vice President Kamala Harris’ race. In an interview published by The guard On Saturday, Jackson reportedly questioned the Democratic presidential candidate’s race when asked concerning the prospect of the United States electing its first black woman president.

“You know what they supposedly said? She’s not black. That’s what I heard. That she’s Indian,” the singer said. “I haven’t watched the news in a few days, they told me they found out her father is white.”

Although the interviewer reportedly clarified that Harris is each black and Native American, Jackson’s claims reflect a false narrative that former President Donald Trump has spread. During a 30-minute question-and-answer session on the National Association of Black Journalists convention, the Republican presidential candidate said that Harris “has always had Indian ancestry” and “has only promoted Indian ancestry.”

“I didn’t know she was black until a few years ago when she became black,” Trump added. “Now she wants to be known as black. So I don’t know if she’s Native American or black?”

Regardless of how he understands Harris’ racial and ethnic background, Jackson believes that no matter who wins the election, “there could be chaos.”

Social media response

The star’s comments sparked controversy on social media platforms as users expressed their disappointment with the star’s statements.

“Janet Jackson sounded like a complete idiot in this interview and I am very disappointed” one user shared on X.

“The power of disinformation, smh,” wrote theGrio’s Natasha Alford Xjoining the discussion. “That’s why they keep doing it.”

Another user added: “Janet Jackson is one of the most influential people in music history. It was simply irresponsible of her to repeat something she “heard” which was exactly what they are using against Kamala! Her own race. We have less than 50 days until the election. We need to speak up!”

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Jackson’s Apology Saga

Following a wave of criticism, the alleged member of Jackson’s team issued an apology. On Sunday Buzzfeed was the primary channel to report Jackson’s alleged apology for comments about Harris. Mo Elmsari, who claimed to be the star’s manager, issued an announcement to media that read:

“Janet Jackson would like to clarify her recent comments. She acknowledges that her statements regarding Vice President Kamala Harris’ racial identity were based on misinformation. Janet respects Harris’ dual heritage as a Black and Native American woman and apologizes for any confusion this has caused. She values ​​the diversity that Harris represents and understands the importance of celebrating this in today’s society. Janet remains committed to promoting unity and understanding.”

After multiple media outlets reported Elmsari’s statement, members of Jackson’s team said: Diversity that the star didn’t authorize the statement. Shutting down Elmasari’s claim that she is Jackson’s manager, the singer’s representative reportedly told the outlet that her brother Randy is her manager and was not available for comment in light of their sibling Tito’s death.

What happened to Mo Elmsari?

After a fake apology, Elmsari announced that he had been fired by the star.

“Janet Jackson fired me because of the misunderstandings between me, her and Randy after her meeting with the Guardian and her ambiguous statements,” he said Everyday Beast also noting his support for Kamala Harris.

In an email to Variety, he explained that he was “fired by Janet and Randy after trying to improve her image in the eyes of the public and fans,” adding that “it’s something (he) doesn’t deserve.”

Has Janet Jackson apologized for her statements?

The star has not yet issued an official apology.

Gospel music star Yolanda Adams refuses to let fans pigeonhole her style, confidence, and message as a gospel artist.

The Grammy Award winner wants social media critics to “stop” caring after she recently faced criticism for wearing tight clothes.

“Because I was raised in a very free-thinking family where everyone had their own voice and talent, I didn’t feel the need to be anything other than Yolanda,” Adams said in a brand new interview with People“And it was very visible, not only in music, but also in fashion.”

Over the many years of her profession, the “Open My Heart” singer has been revered for her powerful voice and music, inspiring hundreds of thousands of individuals and becoming a distinguished figure on the earth of music.

Despite her success, which incorporates 14 studio albums, three Grammy Awards, and becoming the primary female artist to win an American Music Award for Contemporary/Inspirational Artist, she has faced criticism for her wardrobe selections, particularly outfits that some consider too revealing or too tight for the gospel singer.

Adams got here under critical fire following the discharge of her seventh album, 2001’s Believe.

The album cover features the singer in an electrical blue, tight, crocheted GiGi Hunter dress. The dress and the album were hits with fans but irritated some traditionalists within the genre.

“Because I don’t have the typical gospel singer body type, I think it was easy for me to just pick what I wanted and then just wear what I wanted,” Adams explains. “Again, I didn’t grow up in a home where we had restrictions on what we could wear, what we couldn’t wear, what we could listen to, what we couldn’t listen to in my family.”

Comedian Steve Harvey remarked on the singer’s beauty in the course of the 2005 Celebration of Gospel. During his hosting performance, the comedian exclaimed, “Yolanda sho’ is sexy,” describing his fascination together with her presence. The topic was further explored in his 2006 comedy special Don’t Trip, He Ain’t Through with Me Yet.

“When he said it, I knew he was joking. I knew he was joking,” Adams said, referring to Harvey, whom she calls her “brother.” “But when he said it, it caught me off guard, but then I started reading what people were saying, you know, commenting on it.”

The “Victory” singer then admitted that she had mixed feelings when she began reading fans’ reactions.

“It’s like, ‘yeah, she’s like,’ it’s okay. I wish she was my wife.” No!” she continues with a laugh. “That sort of thing. And after all there have been some who (said), ‘well, I do not know the way she dresses together with her shoulders off and all that.’ Ma’am, that is the Shrine Auditorium. This will not be third Baptist Church across Ecclesiastes Road.”

Adams caused much more of a stir in 2016 when she wore a cleavage-baring gown to the 2016 Stellar Awards.

Before the whispers got too loud, fellow gospel singer Erica Campbell he defended Adams in X (then Twitter), writing“Did the Saints Really Have a Problem with Yolanda Adams’ Dress on Stellars?”

After fans said the old rules and standards ought to be thrown out the window, Campbell replied“I love your answers. We need to focus on our souls and not get caught up in a person’s appearance.”

The debate about expectations of modesty and conservatism will not be limited to individuals with a 6’1″ model’s figure or people with pseudonyms “The Gospel Stallion” equivalent to Adams, but for anyone who dares to step outside the arbitrary mold imposed on artists on this genre.

With her ability to attract a various fan base, Adams has at all times represented the intersection of religion and private expression, championing a culture that celebrates diversity throughout the gospel community and throughout the genre of music.

“I thank God for the way I was raised because I don’t have those limitations and I don’t put them on anyone else. When I see you, I see that loving spirit. And that’s how I want to live,” she concluded.

Country is a broad musical category that encompasses elements of folks, bluegrass, and blues. Whether you find it irresistible or hate it, the genre is as quintessentially American as apple pie.

While white men in cowboy hats will be the very first thing most individuals imagine once they consider country music, black country singers have been making their mark on the genre since its inception. We’ll take a take a look at a few of crucial contributions black artists have made to country music, in addition to the genre’s pioneers and a few of the undeniable talents making waves today.

Contributions by Black Country Singers

Let’s start with how black musicians have contributed to the event of the country music genre over time.

Unique perspectives and experiences

Black country musicians are in a position to offer unique perspectives that other artists within the genre simply cannot convey with the identical level of authenticity. Country music’s deep ties to the American South, for instance, tackle a distinct resonance within the hands of black artists.

Beyond their music, many black country singers have also spoken directly about how race has shaped their music and their careers. Darius Rucker, for instance, has often spoken about his experiences as a black man within the predominantly white country music industry.

Breaking stereotypes

Black country artists like Yola, Brittney Spencer, and Tanner Adell are difficult stereotypes within the genre. Yola uses a “genre fluid” approach to defy traditional categorizations, bringing elements of rock, Americana, and even disco to her music.

Spencer and Adell have notably worked to make use of their platforms to offer representation for young black women in country music. Both have been energetic on social media in speaking out in regards to the difficulties of being black in country music, saying it doesn’t mean you may have to vary who you might be to achieve success.

Redefining the genre

Black people bring a certain flavor to each genre they touch, including country music.

Blanco Brown and Lil Nas X masterfully mix country with hip-hop. Hits like Blanco’s “The Git Up” and Lil Nas X’s “Old Town Road” challenge genre norms while staying true to their roots. Now, we’ve got a complete latest wave of “country rap” taking on the music industry and certain shaping genre concepts for generations to come back.

Of course, we will’t forget Bey’s album Cowboy Carter. The album features appearances from Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson, and even the most recent country sensation, Shaboozey. The artist skillfully blends traditional country music together with her signature R&B style, and even became the primary black woman to have a No. 1 country album.

Impact on future generations

These latest sub-genres of country at the moment are having a big impact on future generations. Jimmie Allen uses his lane to rap about black excellence in a rustic aesthetic. Willie Jones stands for diversity in his unique musical style.

Lil Nas X has opened a ton of doors for increased representation in country music. He has not only influenced black artists, but he has helped create a whole path for LGBTQ+ artists in music as a complete.

Black Country Music Pioneers

Now let’s take a take a look at a few of the musicians who paved the way in which for black country artists while also shaping the sound of country music as a complete.

DeFord Bailey

Bailey, a pioneer of black country music, was the primary black star on the Grand Ole Opry. He was also a master harmonica player, with incredible control over rhythm and tone. His performances within the Nineteen Twenties and Nineteen Thirties demonstrated the flexibility of the harmonica in country music. Despite racial discrimination, his influence opened doors for future black artists within the genre.

Charley Pride

Charley Pride was an absolute pioneer of country music. He broke racial barriers to attain massive success within the Nineteen Sixties. He became an enormous country star within the Seventies, having 29 #1 hits on the Billboard country charts and winning three Grammy Awards. His smooth baritone voice combined together with his heartfelt performances cemented his legacy as a pioneering figure in the sport.

Contemporary Black Country Singers

In recent years, black artists have brought country back into the mainstream and altered the landscape of the music industry as a complete. Here are a couple of who’re making waves.

Kane Brown

Kane Brown began his rise to fame by performing a canopy of George Strait’s “Check Yes or No” on social media, which went viral. He is understood for his mix of country, R&B, and pop. These influences are evident in his chart-topping singles like “What Ifs” and “Heaven.”

Mickey Guyton

Mickey Guyton has been an outspoken advocate for diversity in country music because the starting of her profession. Her song “Black Like Me,” released through the protests following the death of George Floyd, highlighted her personal experiences with racism. It became a strong anthem that earned her a Grammy nomination, making her the primary Black woman to be nominated for a solo country performance.

Famous Black Country Music Artists

Beyond that, there are a couple of names that may surprise you who’ve had a big impact on country music as a complete.

Ray Charles

Most people don’t immediately consider Ray Charles as a rustic artist. However, he had a big impact on country music together with his groundbreaking 1962 album Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music. He combined elements of R&B, jazz, and pop with country to interrupt down racial and genre barriers. Charles’ willingness to cross genres paved the way in which for future artists to mix several types of music with country.

Linda Martell

As the primary black female solo artist to play the Grand Ole Opry, Linda Martell is a hidden gem of sorts in country music. She brought a novel perspective to the country world together with her song “Color Him Father.” The song describes her stepfather, who stepped in and took care of her and her six siblings, along together with her mother, when her father didn’t return from combat.

Tina Turner

Like Ray, Tina Turner just isn’t universally synonymous with country music. Nevertheless, along with her pop profession, she recorded a ton of country music together with her husband, Ike, and even released a whole country album. She was well on her option to country greatness and left her own unique mark on the genre before her premature death.

Darius Rucker

The world’s No. 1 country music star got his start within the rock band Hootie and the Blowfish. They achieved widespread mainstream success until 2008, when Darius decided to go solo. He began to top the charts on his own, surpassing even his previous band’s success. His cover of “Wagon Wheel” became an enormous hit, landing him in the highest five hottest country songs of all time.

Lil Nas X

Last, but definitely not least, the most well-liked Billboard Hot 100 artist of all time, Lil Nas X modified not only country music, but all the music industry. The success of his hit “Old Town Road” radically modified genre expectations, rejecting stereotypical notions of country as highly traditional and immune to change, and galvanizing Black and LGBTQ+ artists to bring their very own influences to country music.

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