Rina Sawayama’s Powerful Response to Matty Healy’s Racist Remarks

Culture Rina Sawayama Calls Out Matty Healy for Racist Remarks: “I’ve had enough.”

Introduction

Rina Sawayama, the talented musician, recently made a powerful statement during her performance at the Glastonbury Festival in the UK. Without explicitly mentioning his name, she dedicated her song “STFU” to Matty Healy, the frontman of The 1975, to address the racist comments he has made in the past. Sawayama’s speech referenced specific controversies, including Healy’s derogatory remarks about rapper Ice Spice on a podcast and his involvement in degrading pornography. This incident brings to light important discussions about racism, accountability, and the responsibility of those in positions of influence.

A Stand Against Microaggressions

During her performance, Sawayama expressed her frustration with microaggressions and called attention to the specific ways in which Healy has perpetuated racist attitudes. Microaggressions are subtle behaviors or comments that convey negative stereotypes about marginalized groups. By dedicating her song to Healy, Sawayama exemplifies the power of using art and music to raise awareness about these harmful behaviors.

Racism and Mockery

Sawayama’s reference to Healy watching “Ghetto Gaggers” and mocking Asian people on a podcast taps into a more profound issue—racial mockery and the perpetuation of damaging stereotypes. Healy’s comments about Ice Spice, including referring to her as an “Inuit Spice Girl” and a “chubby Chinese lady” while mimicking an Asian accent, clearly demonstrate a lack of sensitivity and understanding.

Dehumanizing Pornography

Furthermore, Sawayama highlights Healy’s involvement in watching degrading pornography that targets women of color, particularly Black women. This aspect of Healy’s behavior underlines a deeply concerning mindset that objectifies and perpetuates violence against women of color. By bringing attention to this, Sawayama underscores the importance of addressing the intersectionality of racism, misogyny, and sexual objectification.

Accountability and Apology

While Healy did apologize for his comments about Ice Spice during a 1975 concert in New Zealand, his subsequent dismissal of the impact of his actions in an interview with The New Yorker is deeply problematic. His statement reflects an unwillingness to take responsibility for the harm caused by his words and actions. It is essential for individuals in positions of influence to understand the weight their words carry and the potential consequences they can have on marginalized communities.

The Role of Labels and Management

Another notable aspect of this incident is the connection between Sawayama and Healy through their shared label, Dirty Hit Records, and Healy’s role as its director from 2018 to 2023. This raises questions about the responsibility of labels and management in addressing and holding artists accountable for their actions. The power dynamics involved in these professional relationships reinforce the need for transparency and the moral and ethical obligations of those in positions of authority.

Conclusion

Rina Sawayama’s powerful speech and dedication of her song “STFU” to Matty Healy reveal the urgency of addressing racism and the impact of harmful remarks and actions. It is crucial for society as a whole to reflect on the consequences of perpetuating microaggressions, racial mockery, and sexual objectification. This incident brings attention not only to the responsibility of individuals in positions of influence but also to the need for systemic change within the music industry. By speaking out, Sawayama highlights the importance of holding individuals accountable and challenging harmful behavior, ultimately fostering a more inclusive and equitable culture for all.