Rita Ora Addresses Criticism Around The Portrayal Of Bisexuality In 'Girls'
Rita Ora has spoken up about the criticism around her newly released song ‘Girls’ and said that it was never her intention to offend the LGBTQ+ community with her portrayal of same-sex relationships.
The singer teamed up with Cardi B, Charli XCX and Bebe Rexha on the track - and while many fans have lauded it a “bisexual anthem,” others have argued that some of the themes in the song are problematic and only emphasize queer stereotypes.
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Upon its release, several openly out artists expressed their disappointment with the track, with Hayley Kiyoko branding the song “downright tonedeaf” while Kehlani took issue withsome of the “awkward slurs” in the lyrics.
Having taken to Twitter to address some of the backlash around the track, Rita said that she hasbeen “in romantic relationships with women and men” throughout her life and insisted that the track was an accurate representation of her own experience.
“I am sorry how I expressed myself in my song has hurt anyone. I would never intentionally cause harm to other LGBTQ+ people or anyone. Looking forward, I hope that continuing to express myself through my art will empower my fans to feel as proud of themselves as I’m learning to feel about who I am.
She added: “I’m ever thankful to my fans for teaching me to love myself no matter what. I have strived to be a contributor to the LGBTQ+ community throughout my entire career and always will be. Love, Rita.”