With the world at large in deep debate about racial injustice, so too is the entertainment industry.
Recent weeks have seen a number of Black artists step forward and bravely share their experiences of racism. And, in the UK, one of the most notable has come courtesy of singer Misha B.
The songbird soared into public favour as a contestant on the 2011 edition of The X Factor UK. Yet, she was prevented from scaling to higher heights when she was branded a bully on live television by judge Tulisa Contostavlos over an unsubstantiated backstage situation. She was also blemished with accusations of being “feisty” and having an “attitude” that ought to be tamed. Again, without substantiation.
In an emotional video, Misha went on to unpack more of the behind the scenes happenings that she says were drenched in racial bias and left her feeling suicidal.
Upon Misha’s tearful account hitting headlines, Tulisa issued a fiery response that seemed unsure as to whether it sympathised or blamed the Manchester talent.
Branded tone-deaf, it didn’t seem to take into consideration the long-established stereotypes attached to Black women nor the pain it continues to cause.
Now, the N-Dubz front-woman is changing her tone. For, in a new written statement, she acknowledges and apologises for her role in the melee.
Her words below…
