Daniel Caesar recently opened up about how facing cancellation impacted his life and career during a revealing interview with The Breakfast Club. The singer reflected on the events surrounding his controversial support for social media personality YesJulz in 2019, which led to backlash and a temporary decline in his public standing.
Understanding Cancellation and Its Effects
In a conversation that lasted one hour, Daniel Caesar recounted a specific incident from 2019. This event stemmed from a photo posted by YesJulz in 2017, featuring her in a shirt that bore a racially charged phrase. Following criticism, she apologized, yet Caesar’s decision to defend her drew significant backlash.
Lessons Learned from Controversy
Caesar reflected on his mindset at the time, admitting that he internalized the situation and made it personal. He acknowledged how this emotional response contributed to deepening his predicament. “As time has passed, I’m like, ‘Oh, they were 100 percent right,’” he noted.
He expressed regret over accepting behavior from those historically hostile towards his community. “You’re giving up your own dignity,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of self-respect.
A Shift in Perspective
- Caesar felt empathy for YesJulz, viewing her actions through the lens of her upbringing.
- He described her as “an orphan girl that wants to be Black,” highlighting the complexity of her identity struggles.
- The incident fueled Caesar’s self-reflection, allowing him to confront his own feelings of anger and hatred.
Ultimately, he doesn’t regret the ordeal, as it transformed his life significantly. “It forever changed the trajectory of my whole life, for sure,” he explained. This experience taught him valuable lessons about honesty and self-awareness.
Moving Forward
Now, with a successful new album, Daniel Caesar embraces the lessons learned from his cancellation experience. He remains grateful for the growth it facilitated in his understanding of both himself and the world around him.
