Rina Sawayama recently addressed the cultural insensitivity displayed during Sabrina Carpenter’s performance on Saturday Night Live. Sawayama, a Japanese-British singer, expressed her concerns regarding the set design, which featured tatami mats inspired by a karate studio.
Rina Sawayama’s Critique of Sabrina Carpenter
During Carpenter’s performance of “Nobody’s Son,” Sawayama pointed out the importance of proper cultural representation. She took to her Instagram Stories to express her thoughts, urging artists and their creative teams to conduct thorough research when referencing other cultures.
In her post, Sawayama stated, “Big love to Sabrina but fellow artists creative teams … if we are clearly referencing a culture, please can you do so with the research, respect and care it deserves. Shoes on tatami is jail.”
Performance Details
- Carpenter performed on a set inspired by a karate studio.
- The performance included two opponents wearing sneakers, contrasting the cultural elements represented by tatami mats.
Sawayama’s comments highlight a growing concern within the entertainment industry regarding cultural appropriation. She emphasized that even brief interactions with cultural symbols require respectful representation.
Background on Cultural Sensitivity in Pop Music
Sawayama has shared her own experiences regarding cultural connections within pop music. After moving from Japan to London, she found music to be a bridge connecting her with classmates. Influential figures such as Britney Spears, Gwen Stefani, and Lady Gaga have shaped her artistic vision.
Conversely, Gwen Stefani has faced criticism for her cultural representations, often toeing the line between appreciation and appropriation. In a past interview, she acknowledged her fascination with Japanese culture but faced backlash for it.
Sawayama’s critique serves as a reminder for artists to be mindful of cultural elements in their work. She simply suggests that in future performances, footwear like Louboutins and Adidas should be avoided on tatami mats. This call for sensitivity aims to foster a deeper respect for the cultures artists reference in their creative expressions.
