Courtesy of MTV.com By Nadeska Alexis
Nicki Minaj was on the receiving end of some backlash Thursday (February 13), after sharing artwork for her new track “Lookin Ass N—a.” Eventually she heard the cries though, addressing it via Instagramand noting that the image was never billed as official cover art.
The post featured a photograph of Malcom X holding a rifle and looking out of the window in his Queens, New York home. Some fans took issue with a photo of the civil-rights activist being linked with the provocative song, and Nicki wanted to hear their explanations for the outcry.
“What seems to be the issue now? Do you have a problem with me referring to the people Malcolm X was ready to pull his gun out on as Lookin Ass N—az? Well, I apologize,” she wrote. “That was never the official artwork nor is this an official single. This is a conversation. Not a single.”
“I am in the video shooting at Lookin Ass N—az and there happened to be an iconic photo of Malcolm X ready to do the same thing for what he believed in!!!! It is in no way to undermine his efforts and legacy,” Nicki continued. “I apologize to the Malcolm X estate if the meaning of the photo was misconstrued. The word “n—a” causes so much debate in our community while the “n—a” behavior gets praised and worship. Let’s not. Apologies again to his family. I have nothing but respect an adoration for u. The photo was removed hours ago. Thank you.”
Of course her fans responded immediately, with plenty of them giving her props for addressing it calmly. “Please stop apologizing for what others don’t have the mental capacity to understand, keep up the creativity, and let the haters hate while you continue to shine,” eyebdatphoenix wrote.