Tinashe Weighs In On Racial Politics Within The Music Industry

Published: Tuesday 29th Dec 2015 by David
Tinashe-that-grape-juice-2015-191010191010

‘2 On’ performer Tinashe is calling out the music industry for only championing one black female artist at a time.

Read her point of her view below…

In an interview with ‘The Fader’ she shared:

I feel like I still have to represent the [black] community.That has been what has been my struggle… There is a Beyoncé, there is a Rihanna, there is Zendaya, there is a Jourdan Dunn. There is a black girl in all of these positions and we don’t need another one. It’s just kind of ridiculous because there are like a hundred blonde, white actresses and leading ladies. There are a hundred rappers that all virtually look the same, sound the same, and dress the same and no one cares. But for some reason, when it comes to young women, they want to pit them against each other… There can’t be five black girls winning. It’s weird.

Tinashe makes a valid point.

Unfortunately it’ll be some time before things change. It’s a difficult pill to swallow but it seems that the music industry’s issue with colorism is to blame for this trend.

Why? Managers and A&R scouts in today’s game are perhaps only interested in signing artists from ethnic backgrounds when said artists appear to be racially ambiguous.

The assumption is that the general public will be turned off by acts whose ethnicity can’t be “erased” with  blonde and brown wigs, lightening creams or contact lenses.

This explains the absence of Asians and darker-skinned African-Americans and Latinas functioning as serious contenders on today’s entertainment scene.

The result? An assembly line of Beyonce clones forced to compete for the attention of music lovers who are very aware of how interchangeable they are.

It doesn’t help that the demise of platforms like TRL and 106 & Park have robbed these girls of the opportunity to push their points of differences with their personalities or that it’s become extremely easy for them to replicate each other’s sounds.

The problem, the way we see it, isn’t that five black girls can’t win at the same time…but that five black girls who look and sound exactly the same can’t win at the same time.

Here’s hoping Camp Tinashe finds a way to turn her into the Britney Spears of a group made up of Jessica Simpson’s and Mandy Moore’s.

Your thoughts?

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  1. iSpeakTruthNoFallacy December 29, 2015

    She looks a lot like FKA Twigs in that pic above. In terms of what Tinashe said, she is 100% correct. She is by far one of THE most talented artists I have seen in a long time. Plus, she has a work ethic infused with a hunger that can not be compared to any other artist. If these basic poptart broads such as Demi Lovato, Selena Gomez, Taylor Swift, Ellie Goulding, Ariana Grande, and Katy Perry can receive non-stop radio spins, then Tinashe deserves her records to be heard too.

    • OMG Logic!!! December 29, 2015

      No one deserves anything. That’s the first rule of life. People are either going to check for or they won’t.

      • Bey Got The Body December 29, 2015

        “The public decides what is interested in.” If so, can you explain why you don’t see any Spanish singers slaying the charts when Hispanics makes up a great number of the public. The powers that be decide and you should know that. You don’t think it’s a coincidence there’s a gay character in every major tv show nowadays right?

      • OMG Logic!!! December 29, 2015

        There’s a gay character on EVERY major TV show? Do you have receipts, or are you just talking out of your ass? I’ll assume it’s the latter.

        Spanish singers aren’t on the Billboard charts because the US is a majority English speaking country. It’s like asking why English singers aren’t on Mexico’s or Spain’s music charts.

      • iSpeakTruthNoFallacy December 29, 2015

        How can people decide if they are “checking for it or not” if she can’t even get on a radio dial. Also, don’t try to act like that talentless hefer Selena Gomez compares to anything close of Tinashe’s talent. You just sound like you’re trying to justify white privilege…GO HOME ROGER

    • José **Puerto Rico baby! December 29, 2015

      @ISpeakTruth..Exactly!

  2. OMG Logic!!! December 29, 2015

    If only talented young White men could complain about the gross inequality in both the NBA and NFL. African Americans are statistically well represented in Hollywood. Meanwhile back in the NBA and NFL, African Americans comprise 74% and 68% respectively despite being only 13% of the population.

    • Biting Truth December 29, 2015

      Homosexuals are amoral degenerates who are mentally unbalanced bring and nothing but perversion to society. Complain about that.

      • OMG Logic!!! December 29, 2015

        The only one with mental issues is you sweetheart. If you had even a High School education you’d know none of what you said is part of reality.

        Then again you just be a mentally impaired Christian.

    • Adele’s Award Cabinet December 29, 2015

      There is no proof that Black men are favoured in the NBA because they are black. However, Americas history with race proves that white and fairer women are given preferential treatment in all fields. If you think the NBA is discriminating against white men just because they are white I’d encourage you to take a serious look into history to see why that isn’t the case.

      • OMG Logic!!! December 29, 2015

        Just like Hollywood awards roles to those who deserve them and not to check off a list of required minorities. Just like a music artist can work their ass off and never make it, even with endless promo (see Rita Whora). The public decides what it’s interested in. It isn’t an issue of race. MJ, Tina, Whitney, Aretha, Patti, Mariah, Tony, B2Men, and countless others have proven this.

    • José **Puerto Rico baby! December 29, 2015

      Would you STFU!

      • José **Puerto Rico baby! December 29, 2015

        That was for that inbred c*** “OMG dumb ass”.

      • OMG Logic!!! December 29, 2015

        Facts aren’t always popular.

    • José **Puerto Rico baby! December 29, 2015

      Nothing about what you said is fact. What is a fact, is that you’re a dumb c***.

      • OMG Logic!!! December 29, 2015

        You’re welcome to google the NBA and NFL statistics for yourself. I don’t deal in make belief.

    • José **Puerto Rico baby! December 29, 2015

      Not only do you deal in make believe, but you deal in ignorance as well. As for your statistics, it’s obvious that African Americans are superior athletes, as opposed to any other race, and it’s as clear as day.

      • OMG Logic!!! December 29, 2015

        So that statement isn’t ignorant or racist? You saying Black athletes are inherently superior is like me saying White actors are inherently superior. It’s bull5h1t. Why aren’t there any top level African soccer teams that compete on the level of Europeans?

    • Boo boo December 29, 2015

      You dumb ass b****, she is talking about FEMALE in the music industry. Are you retarded?

  3. Barb-wire December 29, 2015

    So true Tin! There’s a certain notion for both the industry and fans alike that there can’t be more than one black girl at the top. If there are more than one then they will be pited against each other. It’s weird and sad for real…

    Sidenote: Zendaya is not on top of anything, Tinashe stop it.

    • OMG Logic!!! December 29, 2015

      The same way Taylor, Adele, Katy, and all the other girls at the top are pitted against each other? I guess that doesn’t count because they’re White?

      • Adele’s Award Cabinet December 29, 2015

        Your world view makes me laugh so ill humour you. The fact are plain to see yet you choose to ignore it. As David pointed out black people aren’t the only people that go through this. The issue stems from coloniasm and is very prevalent in Asia.

      • OMG Logic!!! December 29, 2015

        Yes, the issue exists for Asians and Latinos, but not for Blacks. To group up with them is dishonest and greedy.

        Hispanics are a far larger part of the US, yet they don’t see a fraction of the success that Blacks do in ANY outlet be it Hollywood, the music industry, or major sports.

  4. Keyshia-chante December 29, 2015

    I think she made a valid point.
    I like tinashe anyway but she’s right.
    And the thing is also, black ppl been brainwashed to hate/be mad at each other.
    I think all races are beautiful specially black ppl.
    Everyone wants to be black no one has a story like we do.the drive, the passion, the strength.

    Black ppl embrace you fellow brothers and sisters.

  5. Linear December 29, 2015

    …or maybe “Tinashe” is just not compelling enough. I see nothing about her or what she does that makes her stand out as being anything more than “extra.” She’s just a black quasi-R&B version of Ashley Simpson, who herself was never needed, and neither is she. Beyond being reported on here, I never see her. She’s boring and unnecessary.

    • OMG Logic!!! December 29, 2015

      Exactly. Ashlee Simpson had one hit album before the public discarded her unnecessary ass.

    • AJ December 29, 2015

      Never heard a truer word spoken. It’s individuals like Kelly Rowland, Janet Jackson, Jennifer Lopez, Ciara who have the exposure and talent to break down barriers. The key issue is that the media and radio stations are too powerful. Media will only report black issues in a negative light and the radio stations are racists when it comes to music, preferring the dribble that comes from generic white artists.

    • iSpeakTruthNoFallacy December 29, 2015

      She’s a lot more compelling than Demi Lovato, Selena Gomez, and Ellie Goulding, yet I hear them NON-STOP on the radio. Don’t act like Tinashe doesn’t deserve a spot on the radio if those poptarts can so easily make it.

      • Grande the Way December 29, 2015

        Opinions are subjective but if you ask me, Good For You and the other singles Selena Gomez put out were much better than Player. Same with Demi Lovato. I’m not a fan of either and love Tinashe, but her material hasn’t been good lately. I almost forgot Party Favors.

  6. LB December 29, 2015

    This article is a mockery coming for the biggest propagandist on the internet.

    This site runs its platform pinning women against each other, this is how this website makes its money, getting google adsense checks has proven to be of greater importance than having some integrity.

    • José **Puerto Rico baby! December 29, 2015

      I absolutely agree with everything you said, but the ironic part of it, is the fact that you also partake in this propaganda.

      • Lake Erie December 29, 2015

        Lol. Speak on it. The majority of them do ironically.

  7. Remind! December 29, 2015

    Well, of course.

    Adele, Carrie Underwood, Kelly Clarkson, Demi Lovato, Selena Gomez, Ariana Grande, Miley Cyres, Taylor Swift etc. can all CO-EXIST together, adored and admired by their fanbases the world over, and the earth continues to spin on its axis but…

    Beyonce and Rihanna and Nicki Minaj – the most successful Black pop stars of recent times. God forbid their is more than ONE successful African-American female music star all at once and BLACK PEOPLE in particular are the worst at constantly pitting Black people against one and other ESPECIALLY Black Women – Black Men don’t receive half the same treatment. #InternalisedRacism. #CrabsInABarrel. #WilloeLynchSyndrome.

    The same goes for film, television and other forms of media… I saw a disgusting Stan war between Taraji P Henson and Viola Davis fans the other day on another black/urban blog… IT WAS RIDICULOUS. The two most prominent Black Women on Television and this is the response they get.

    • AJ December 29, 2015

      But who is it who’s doing that it’s the stans themselves – many of whom are back. The problem with this is that people like Nicki Minaj and Rihanna are not good role models for black women (one is fake as a bottle of st tropez and the other is a hypersexualised control freak).

      People harp on about radio not supporting r&b but there are more blogs out there the ever before and there is streaming. People know the albums are coming out they just an don’t buying them…

  8. LB December 29, 2015

    We have seen this site pin Beyonce against Rihanna, Lil Kim against Nicki Minaj, tear apart Mariah and many women of color, and propagate non-stories in an attempt to throw “shade” as this site proudly champions itself too.

    Is the industry really the problem or is it the media that are the problem? Catty snide hateful platforms like this one is everything that is wrong with urban music, or music by women of color today.

    Instead of championing and advocating for black talent and excellence, platforms like this one are more concerned with tearing apart artists, throwing shade and downplaying artists’ achievements in an attempt to make their favourite artist look better.

  9. Eldela December 29, 2015

    Yeah, yeah…she may have a “point,” but I fail to see what makes her special enough to be the one who shines as an unfortunate example of this bias. Cookie-cutter as hell, all Tinashe is is Brooke Valentine 10 years later.

  10. Educated December 29, 2015

    YouTube Willie Lynch to understand where this comes from. I don’t have time to argue with those in denial when even the poor history lessons we were all subjected to admit that lighter skinned black people had easier lives because of their skin tones. It applies to this day and that’s why TGjs analysis is spot on.

  11. LB December 29, 2015

    It is the toxic attitude coming from the blogs, black twitter and black media that is the cause of the “one black” rule in the music industry by female artists.

    You never see this scenario in male artists, particularly rappers because hip hop fans do not give a damn about how many copies their favourite artist has sold, they are more concerned with buying the music of their favourite artist and the value said artist adds to the industry.

    This tearing apart of female artists, tearing them apart and pitting them against each other is a common trait among homosexual messy shady black gays who are more interested in their favourite artist winning than supporting the growth of the industry.

    • Anita Malik December 29, 2015

      That’s because Pop music is basically a beauty contest.

  12. LB December 29, 2015

    I cannot claim innocence from this because I am also guilty of the same but at least I am willing to admit my flaws.

    For this site to post this article considering the type of platform it is is an insult to our intelligence and a mockery to what Tinashe is saying.

    • Pray for the youth December 29, 2015

      Acknowledging that you are guilty and admitting to your flaws concerning the matter doesn’t mean anything unless you’re planning on not doing it anymore… which probably isn’t the case.

  13. Bey Got The Body December 29, 2015

    I have to say that the gay community’s misogyny against women who don’t adhere to traditional beauty ideals are also to blame.

  14. Remind! December 29, 2015

    @LB…

    Speaking nothing other than the FUQING truth.

    I respectfully agree.

  15. Anita Malik December 29, 2015

    Tinashe is right but her problem runs deeper. She’s not compelling in any way which makes her job harder. Nicki won because she’s extremely interesting.

  16. Dev December 29, 2015

    her comment is valid but when she stated black girls and mentioned names, none of them were of dark complexion. Tinashe is an okay singer/artist but she must not be fooled at the fact that her completion and her more caucasian features worked in her favour, she has been in many magazine spreads as the next best thing and hasn’t really had that much success when there are more talented “black” girls looking for a break

    • Lake Erie December 29, 2015

      Yea, but at the end of the day, she’s black. And yes, her success isn’t that long at all but compared to all the 40 other white girls who are out here killing it at the same damn time, tinashe hasn’t even made a fizzle along with the 5 other black women she’s keeping company to get on Beys and Rihs level and hopefully I can say not “yet”.

      • Pray for the youth December 29, 2015

        @Lake Erie that wasn’t the point. The point was that there is also discrimination within the black community and saying “well at the end of the day, she’s still black” is a complete dismissal of that. Those with a lighter complexion are treated more favorably than those of a darker complexion. Unfortunately. Tinashe’s point wasn’t being refuted. She was right. It’s true. But it is also true that she herself is in a position of privilege due to her skin color, need she forget.

      • Pray for the youth December 29, 2015

        Yeah, that’s pretty much it. Being a “black girl”, the odds are already against you and it’s true that tinashe hasn’t received what she deserves in comparison to her white counterparts. And she hasnt gotten relatively far, but we were just pointing out the fact that she has certainly gotten farther than her darkskin counterparts at the same time. What she feels about white girls having an advantage is how darkskin girls feel about light skin girls having an advantage.

      • Pray for the youth December 29, 2015

        …this is supposed to be down there somewhere.. hmm oh well.

    • Pray for the youth December 29, 2015

      At least someone said it. Colorism is real, folks. Tinashe has a point but there are dark skin girls who are looking at her the same way she’s looking at these white girls. Wondering why they haven’t gotten the break she has even if they are just as, if not more, talented.

      • Lake Erie December 29, 2015

        I mean yes, there is no denying both of your comments are very true. But do you think her lighter skin has gotten her very far? Has her lighter skin given her credit due? But I get it though, I get what you’re saying. I just think she realizes or may not realize that her “pass” card may not be that effective or like she basically said “we have one of you already”. Her sales and promotion shows it too.

  17. iSpeakTruthNoFallacy December 29, 2015

    Look at so many people coming in this post trying to refute Tinashe by inadvertently defending white privilege. YOU ALL know damn well that Tinashe’s talent is far superior than 76% of the garbage that Top 40 now plays.

  18. S****** Blonde December 29, 2015

    The assumption is that the general public will be turned off by acts whose ethnicity can’t be “erased” with blonde and brown wigs, lightening creams or contact lenses.

    Beyoncé.

    • José **Puerto Rico baby! December 29, 2015

      Here’s the other one, or are you and “OMG Inbred” the same person, most likely.

      • Messy December 29, 2015

        Hi Rihnavy

      • José **Puerto Rico baby! December 29, 2015

        You can miss me with that b*******.

      • AnnaliseKeatingsNewWig December 29, 2015

        @Messy KIII you betta caytch that bĪtch before I do!

      • José **Puerto Rico baby! December 29, 2015

        You clowns are pathetic. One, i’m not part of the mentally ill, two, I have a life, and three, I suggest you two go find one. Weirdo’s.

      • AnnaliseKeatingsNewWig December 29, 2015

        *weirdos (plural – more than one)
        ___
        for e.g. you have multiple personalities, multiple email addresses, etc. 🙂

      • José **Puerto Rico baby! December 29, 2015

        I see comprehension skills aren’t up to par. “Weirdo’s”, yes it does mean more then one, so that was in reference to YOU, and that OTHER person. Can you comprehend that? Now seeing as how you like to make an ass of yourself, do you want to show the RECEIPTS that i’m this RiNavy individual. If not, then by all means, stfu!

      • José **Puerto Rico baby! December 29, 2015

        Your..

      • AnnaliseKeatingsNewWig December 29, 2015

        https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/weirdo
        Noun[edit]. weirdo (plural weirdoes or weirdos)
        _________
        YOU are the one with low comprehension skills you bum b*tch, because you are again wrong! You were referring to two people which means you should have said ‘weirdos’. You even had the nerve to thumb up your own idiotic INCORRECT comment multiple times (only adding to my theory that you are indeed a troll).

      • José **Puerto Rico baby! December 29, 2015

        WTF, who the f*** thumps up their own comments, and why are you insisting that i’m a troll, and what the f*** is your problem. Now like I said, you still can’t provide RECEIPT’S, so with that, STFU, hop off my d***, and on to your father’s. You’ve wasted enough of my energy.

  19. Lake Erie December 29, 2015

    Tinashe, yes it is certainly weird. But unfortunately, we may never see the day that this racism ish will change. Maybe in a century or 2, this will all be something ALL students will laugh about or frown upon in history class.

  20. BeyIsQueen December 29, 2015

    There is nothing special about Tinashe. She’s not the cutest girl, her voice is bland and her music is typical. I don’t get why people on here hype her up so much. I miss the days where the urban girls all had something different to offer. All of them look and sound exactly the same and their music is nothing to rave about!!! Oh and btw most artists are flopping today regardless of color!!

  21. Anita Malik December 29, 2015

    Selena Gomez is basic and sells next to nothing but is all over radio. Tinashe is basic but isn’t on radio. The answer here is clear.

    • Grande the Way December 29, 2015

      How so when Selena Gomez is Mexican? Selena comes from Disney, she has a base. And the singles she put oUT were much better than Party Favors

    • Grande the Way December 29, 2015

      This is an issue for not just black women but women in general. Most of yall probably don’t liste to country but Carrier Underwood is pitted against Taylor Swift all the time as if there can only be one successful woman in country. Taylor is not even country anymore and she still is pitted against Carrie. The second Ariana released The Way she was pitted against Demi, Miley, and Selena. Katy Perry got pitted against Gaga as if there can only be one. These battles arise for artists in all genres and in both genders. Male rappers and male country artist don’t get it because their audience doesn’t care about sales and charts. If we want to blame anyone, it’s the fans.

      • Bad Puta December 29, 2015

        What is Selena exceptionally good at?what is so remarkable about her personality? What is so forward thinking about her music? She’s a basic Disney girl with no serious artistic value or direction. Demi at least tries to give you Pink-lite.

  22. StrawberryMuffin24 December 29, 2015

    Tinashe is 100 percent right! There are a million white girls out at the same time not so at all for black girls is sad! Tinashe is the best female artist to come out in a long ass time!

    She makes great music!
    She can sing and dance!
    She has her own style!
    She has a great personality!
    She is very humble and nice!
    She writes and can produce her own music!
    She’s pretty!
    She has the it factor!

    I hope her next single is a banger for her she’s very talented and a hard worker!

    • Sam December 29, 2015

      “She makes great music!
      She can sing and dance!
      She has her own style!
      She has a great personality!
      She is very humble and nice!
      She writes and can produce her own music!
      She’s pretty!
      She has the it factor”
      These are your opinions. When you have or run a record company you can re-sign her

  23. jec2 December 29, 2015

    Tinashe would have more of a leg to stand on if she didn’t benefit from the same smoke and mirrors as her white counterparts. Mind you, she is a competent pop star…. with okay tunes…..but she is more Mya than Beyonce….and we all know her career led to the pole.

    • AnnaliseKeatingsNewWig December 29, 2015

      LMAO but Mya werks that pole like her rent is overdue! Ms Harrison gives life!

  24. StrawberryMuffin24 December 29, 2015

    Tinashe is talented as hell that’s exactly what she’s talking about u bitter idiots always comparing STFU and let other female artists shine!

    All Tinashe needs is that 1 big song and then she’s gonna explode cause she has EVERYTHING it takes to be a Star! I CAN’T WAIT for her new album i love all her music!

  25. MUSICHEAD December 29, 2015

    If this were 2005, Tinashe would not have a record deal because there is nothing exceptional about her. Today’s industry standards for talent have dropped so low that people like Tinashe can have a “career” without having to show and prove. Tinashe should realize that the politics of the industry is the only reason she has a deal. She’s shoved down our throats because of her looks and damn sure not her “talent”.

    • BeyIsQueen December 29, 2015

      That’s what I’m saying. Tin blends end with the other new urban chicks. Light skinned, skinny, trap beats with no significant vocal skill. I honestly have her a chance and she bored me.

    • Dev December 29, 2015

      If this was 1990’s it would also be the same deal unless she was a feature girl like Christina Milian or Ashanti. I live for the 90’s where talent and diversity in black/popular music reigned supreme

  26. Numbers December 29, 2015

    But this is the same chick that was on Twitter complaining about being biracial and defending the “s**** master” iggy. All of Sudden she’s black when she wants it to benefit her.. B**** bye. I also remember her favoriting shade towards other artists, now she’s complaining about being put against them?

  27. xedos December 29, 2015

    You cannot blame the A&R they’re responding to the market. Society is to blame.They’re in a money making business. If they keep on putting out artist the public does not support they will go bankrupt. Blame the media

  28. BeyIsQueen December 29, 2015

    An urban girl who I do enjoy is Sevyn. She’s out here singing, writing and dancing her ass off but people aren’t checking. Boomerang should be a huge hit right now.

    • MUSICHEAD December 29, 2015

      Yes! Sevyn is one of my favorites! Boomerang and Shoulda Been There were two of the best r&b songs released last year.

  29. StrawberryMuffin24 December 29, 2015

    Nobody forced you jealous haters to post on this Tinashe thread but here you are with your hating ass comments!

    Tinashe gets HYPE because she deserves it! Everyone see the POTENTIAL she has to do great things all her music is dope she’s amazing!

    She’s still very young so she has time to make that album that will make her ever bigger then she is everybody are just starting to catch on!

    Tinashe needs to put out that big single to get her name out there! She has what it takes for sure anybody who says otherwise are just straight up haters!

  30. MsYonce December 29, 2015

    @Pray Yass come thruu exactlyyyy.
    …..

    “Acknowledging that you are guilty and admitting to your flaws concerning the matter doesn’t mean anything unless you’re planning on not doing it anymore… which probably isn’t the case.”

  31. MsYonce December 29, 2015

    I agree with what she said its nothing but the truth

  32. MsYonce December 29, 2015

    @LB Don’t come in this post talking about Sam pitting women against each other, when you do it just as much as he does. Just stop it youre just as bad as him.

  33. King Mark111 /.\ December 29, 2015

    Oh please, it always been two or a few killing the game each gen. Only Taylor and Katy are selling singles and albums, Adele is in a Lane of her own. Before then it was only Britney and Xtina and before then it was only Madonna. The rest had a hit here and maybe there. These others, the Demi, Grande, Gomess and Cyrus aren’t going nothing but singles and gold. (Miley went platinum, but look at what she had to do.
    .
    Gaga was on tip of the world and before the 5 year more she’s dead. Fergie had a nice lil run, but no one is checking anymore. Same with Gwen and Xtina. My point, White girls have a even shorter shelf life, because there’s another one right behind them.
    .
    There always been a few cross over black girls. Dion & Ross to Whitey and Janet to know Beyonce and Rihanna. But you still had your Franklin, MLB and others. So bye!
    .
    I said it then and I’ll say it again. Tin light skin will get her there faster, but not farther than a Sevyn. Death at her, Rita and Ciara thinking doing played out pop records was going to put them on top.

  34. My Forehead Tho December 29, 2015

    I hear what Tinashe is saying, but let’s not act like non-whites and women are the only ones facing discrimination in the music industry. Using her same argument, why are Justin Timberlake and Robin Thicke the only successful/respected white RnB artist; why are they constantly pit against each other; why is every other white male RnB artist compared to them and looked at as their “clones”?

    The problem isn’t a white vs black thing, it’s a majority vs minority thing. In almost every community/culture you’ll notice a pattern: the majority are generally more successful and respected, the minorities ,with the exception of a few, are not.

    Tinashe needs to find a way to stand out if she wants to succeed.

    • King Mark111 /.\ December 29, 2015

      And it took Thicke how long to cross over? But even with pop males, you have JT once every 6 years, JB NOW, Ed Sheren because he does something different from the rest. Sam Smith is gone with the wind, Nick is a singles artist. On the other side, only Usher, Chris and Jason (a singles artist) are or we’re doing it. The rest just fit in where they can. Music always only had a selection of huge stars, that’s why they’re called super stars. Lol

  35. StrawberryMuffin24 December 29, 2015

    That’s a damn lie TINASHE is right we have plenty of white female artists and actresses but not alot at all for black women it’s very sad indeed!

    But the bottom line is Black people don’t support there own people like white people do!

    Tinashe spoke the truth!

    I love Tinashe though she’s a great female artist!

  36. ?Queen Molly? December 29, 2015

    @LB you sound like a hypocrite boo all you do is drag Ciara for her sales.. Practice what you preach.

    • King Mark111 /.\ December 29, 2015

      *Lack of sales.

      • ?Queen Molly? December 29, 2015

        Sweetie I was talking to LB not his pet

  37. .:: Centurion ::. December 29, 2015

    Beyonce is trash as well as her hoard of filthy disgusting homosexual antisocial reject fans who attack every woman who’s better or more successful than her.

  38. Numb December 29, 2015

    I feel like Tinashe feels entitled and for no good reason. Honey, you are not doing anything different and you aren’t putting anything fascinating on the table. She’s overall a bland and mediocre artist, it’s really that simple. She’s one of those artists that may have good production but when it comes time to get in the booth she does nothing with the song. I have heard her earlier mixtapes and I remember really liking some of the production of the songs but she wasn’t doing anything with it as far as vocally.

  39. Lion heart December 29, 2015

    she just expected to reach the top overnight. I’m sure beyonce and Rihanna wanted to be at the top and they worked their asses there and did it in silence. Tinashe is Thirsty for fame and whining about Grammys and ppl not buying her singles.

    Sometimes no matter what, a person just doesn’t click with an audience, I guess that’s where that “it” factor comes in. I just don’t feel her, it is what it is. I didn’t realize people are obligated to fawn and go batshit when a biracial woman sings and dances.

    • #TeamTinashe Stan December 29, 2015

      Hi Beyrihliyah!
      Knew it was you all along boo boo ?
      Happy New Year!

      • King Mark111 /.\ December 29, 2015

        I’m joking and that trick is dead, I think. lol

  40. #TeamTinashe Stan December 29, 2015

    She is not 100% frustrated about her position, she was just asked a simple question and we know the answer. I just think our own people, “Black” people don’t support new black females much anymore, they would rather invest in somebody outside of their ethnic like Adele only!

    And for the ones saying she’s not “talented” that is your opinion because as you continue to seek her under hiding as trolls, she still is the #1 new black girl right now in a LONG TIME to see great opportunities based off of one hit song and with her other songs. So please choke on that gracefully. ?

  41. Elevated1 December 29, 2015

    She is perturbed because she has the exact same physical attributes that all these black women have with a lackluster voice, yet it is getting her nowhere. We seen you before and need something new. She is lucky she made it this far. Plenty of beautiful dark skinned sisters that get told everyday they are too “chocolate” to be promoted. So sit down Tinashe.

  42. J cole December 29, 2015

    Tinashe is boring her music is lackluster. There are so many Tinashes out there. It is laughable she even mentioned Beyonce name like she in the same league. Maybe Jhene n’em but not Bey. I get what she is saying and the music industry as well as Hollywood is bogus, but she is not the answer to the problem.

  43. What now December 29, 2015

    Ppl can get mad all they want, the girl isn’t lying

  44. Grande the Way December 29, 2015

    This is an issue for not just black women but women in general. Most of yall probably don’t liste to country but Carrier Underwood is pitted against Taylor Swift all the time as if there can only be one successful woman in country. Taylor is not even country anymore and she still is pitted against Carrie. The second Ariana released The Way she was pitted against Demi, Miley, and Selena. Katy Perry got pitted against Gaga as if there can only be one. These battles arise for artists in all genres and in both genders. Male rappers and male country artist don’t get it because their audience doesn’t care about sales and charts. If we want to blame anyone, it’s the fans.

  45. Danzou December 29, 2015

    I understand what Tinashe is saying, I really do. But sadly the problem is within the world not necessarily the industry. Black people do not support each other. And majority of black people in America are still suffering from our history. Not to mention so many of you on this very site are part of the problem. I personally don’t support white artists unless they’re exceptional. The truth is that the world sees eurocentric beauty as the standard. Light skin long hair slim bodies is what the world wants. Tinashe is %100 correct BUT I feel like she only is upset because she thought she had the perfect formula since she herself benefits from being lightskin and privileged. She fails to realize that the world sees her as a n.i.g.g.e.r regardless of how she looks. It’s all politics. If white people don’t like you’re music then you’re not gonna be scanning platinum it’s just the sad truth. I love my people and culture so much but the majority of us are uneducated and it hurts my heart. However I am glad to see that so many of you in this thread are aware of what’s going on it means allot to me. Simple awareness is all it takes to begin moving beyond these issues.

  46. 4everBrandy_Ci December 29, 2015

    Tinashe knows what the f*** is going on and NO she isn’t kissing the white/mainstream ass just to get her music to be heard. IF you would read clearly and see what she’s saying then you would understand where she’s coming from! She’s biracial and yes in the powers of the narcissist tactics in America black people and ANY other minority are viewed less than and don’t get as much or barely equal opportunities to get themselves where they need to be. Tinashe is a prime example of what it means to never give up and go after your dreams. She’s not the only artist such as having that mentality but there are other artists that have the same drive and ambition!!!! The f****** issue is people aren’t supporting their own culture when it comes to music and entertainment. Tinashe is definitely on of the talented in the industry and if she plays her cards right she will become one of the successful artists of her time!!!! I’m not downplaying my girl and I’m not discrediting her accomplishments so far but I do know it’s going to be a while when she reaches her full potential. It’s like today, consumers are so into the “trend” or “what’s hot” but guess what? Things will change so regardless if people don’t like Tinashe she still has her fans from day one!!!!! #TeamTinashe

  47. 4everBrandy_Ci December 29, 2015

    Hell look at Mariah Carey I mean when she was out during her early teens/adulthood she went through s*** because of her background. It was like she had to choose what kind of direction to take with her music because of her color BUT guess what? Her music SPOKE for itself!!!!!! Her fans and audience supported her because of her TALENT. Yes she was beautiful and biracial but her talent to her further along with that. So, my thing is that people need to WAKE up and see what’s going on because it’s up to us to make a difference!!!!!

  48. MusicStan December 29, 2015

    Can’t put 100% of the blame on the industry on the Colorism in the Black America, we the general public has a hand in it also. When the Aaliyah film was in the making and Zendaya was in thought of playing the late great Aaliyah, we the public tear her a new one due to fact we didn’t think she was “Black” enough to played Aaliyah. We praised the likes of Kim Kardashian and her family, who claimed to fame is through quote, unquote “Leaked S** tape” but ridicule the likes of the Females on Love and Hip Hop or RHOATL, We support and praised Adele or Taylor Swift, but yet make fun of Tamar or Keri Hilson for flopping on the charts. For years we have been our owned worst enemy, due to being told as Slaves that if you are Light Skin with good hair, you are consider the Best and/or Pretty, or Handsome. We said terms like “Oh, she or he are pretty or handsome for a Dark Skin person” instead of embracing all 69 shades of Black. Black has been and will always be beautiful!!! Time to wake up People!

    • Bad Puta December 29, 2015

      Sweetheart. Stop there. zendaya wasn’t picked because she could act she was picked because she was lighter skinned which is why everyone called her out. Aaliyah’s appeal was that she represented girls who had browner skin which is why it was a poor fit. You wouldn’t get a dark skinned girl to play Beyoncé would you?

      • MusicStan December 29, 2015

        Ummm re-read I said ” Zendaya was in thought of playing the late great Aaliyah” In thought means she was in thought but chose to change not actually pick…

  49. Dana Haughton December 29, 2015

    Tinashe is being very truthful , we the general public tend to pit females against each other and record companies only push a extremely mixed girl who could be any race , this leaves our darker sisters , Asians and Latinas out of the picture . It’s also weird how we tend to deny a large , successful group of black female artists instead of just a monopoly of one or two . Considering that in R&B ‘s golden era there was many options in terms of female black artist to choose from .

  50. StarXavi December 29, 2015

    By no means do I not believe this is an issue. It for sure is. But…it’s nothing new. You think the minorities of yesteryear didn’t have to go through injuwtices however big or small to be heard or recognized, but the ones that really connected with people and stayed true to who they are rose to the top; a la Tina Turner, Patti Labelle, and Aretha Franklin. They were also pitted against each other. That’s how are brains work. We compare this to that and tried to group things together that may not fit. It takes more than talent to rise to the top…there are so many factors to consider.

  51. Carry On December 29, 2015

    What’s sad is that Tinashe is just seeing this since she is young just like this generation just realize it’s still rac!sm no matter how you slice it. I applaud her efforts in trying independently and to stick with the music industry not to give up. If she wants to cheat; or get around it she would need a momanager like Ashanti. A dad who calls around to work things out like matty to keep things straight for her best interest. The music industry is cut-throat and you have to be a certain way for media to take you seriously and the truth of the matter is we have rac!sm among our own race. Her being lite-skinned and skinny may NOT work in her favor. I pray that this ends and she make it through herself. I hope this new year will be the time things change. Everyone have a safe and happy NEW YEAR!!!!!!!! Carry on to bigger and better things. Peace!

  52. Hunny December 29, 2015

    Honestly…even if the industry did allow more than two black women to thrive…whose to say she would be one of them. Now I understand that if Selena Gomez can have a career, so can she…and she does.

    *Stimulus package from Drake
    *Stimulus package from Chris Brown
    *5011 articles calling her the New Janet Jackson and how Beyonce should “move over”.
    * Appearances on Conan and various other late night talks shows.
    * BET award tribute to JANET JACKSON.
    * Hopped on the Nick Jonas Jealous remix…which made the song suck.
    * Documentaries about her songwriting process…I think that was sponsored by Sprite.
    * Her video ‘Just like that’ had a decent budget and dancing and all that s***.

    She actually has had more of a push in the initial stages than most of her peers. Success in the industry is 10% Talent, 10% Hard work and 80% LUCK. There are no guarantees. I do agree that there can be 10000 white female singers and 10000 male rappers…but even if there were 10000 black female singers she still is not guaranteed to be a part of that 10000.

  53. BeyBarbFenty December 29, 2015

    completely true. why can’t female artists co-exist?

  54. Crinkle December 29, 2015

    She’s not even black, she’s mixed race. It wasn’t long ago she was crying from the rooftops that she’s both black and white, and not just black, while defending Iggy Azalea. Why the sudden change you ask? Because she’s trying to exploit the conscious/pro-black movement that’s been gaining momentum lately.
    Not too long ago, this woman was talking about how she doesn’t want perceived as ‘urban’, expressing her usual desperation to become mainstream. This is why she’s been releasing all these horrible, generic songs lately.
    She’s now realised her mistake, and she’s trying to get the attention of black people, she wants a black female cult fandom like Rihanna and Beyonce, and other black artists, because she’s realised it’s ultimately beneficial, amplified by the fact that she’s pretty much flopped since ‘2 On’.

    • Jane December 30, 2015

      Say it!!!!

  55. Deadly Midget December 29, 2015

    Dear Flopinashe:

    You are a non factor because your music is forgettable and mediocre at best, not because of the racist ways of the entertainment business. Therefore you may take a stadium of seats that you can’t and most likely will never sell out.

    Sincerely,

    DeadlyMidget

  56. mary December 31, 2015

    Tnashe sthe most talented new artst of any genre.
    Her BIGGEST problem is RCA RECORDS, her label.
    RCA didnt even submit to the grammy awards her album for best new artist but Khelani was nomiinated thiiis yr and Iggy last yr????
    RCA worked one club song on radio and her mgr did everythng else.
    Where is the promo for player other than Fallon???
    Where is the pre-album promo tour and TV performances in US & Europe etc…????
    Why hasn’t she performed on UK or French TV yet???
    She better get more established and connected management to co-manage her.
    She needs a BIG connected management firm and then tell them what she needs as far as international promo b/c her label doesn’t care about AA female artists.
    Dont blame the hood bc her label is her problem.

  57. another taken day something ain’t wrong January 2, 2016

    At least she spoke the true And she’s right about it

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