Rock band No Doubt have opted to withdraw their controversial new video for their ‘Looking Hot’ single, after outcry amongst fans and critics alike with regard to their questionable use of Native American symbolism in the provocative clip.
Gwen Stefani of No Doubt - Photo by Ros O'Gorman.
Usually more known for speaking out against inequality and racism, the band was quick to take the video down and issue an apology on their website, stating that their intention “was never to offend, hurt or trivialize Native American people, their culture or their history.”
In Regards to Our “Looking Hot” Music Video
As a multi-racial band our foundation is built upon both diversity and consideration for other cultures. Our intention with our new video was never to offend, hurt or trivialize Native American people, their culture or their history. Although we consulted with Native American friends and Native American studies experts at the University of California, we realize now that we have offended people. This is of great concern to us and we are removing the video immediately. The music that inspired us when we started the band, and the community of friends, family, and fans that surrounds us was built upon respect, unity and inclusiveness. We sincerely apologize to the Native American community and anyone else offended by this video. Being hurtful to anyone is simply not who we are.
– No Doubt
However, many people, Native and non-Native alike, were offended, with forums on their own site and elsewhere lighting up shortly after the video’s release.
Margaret “Emmy” Scott posted an open letter on the band’s forum, addressing lead singer Gwen Stefani directly as she spoke of her own challenges growing up and how No Doubt helped her through those difficult times.
Gwen, I always looked up to you for being confident and uniquely you which is part of the reason I loved No Doubt. Even later as I have been attending college “Just a Girl” helped me realize I was in a bad relationship. This is why I was deeply saddened to see the music video for “Looking Hot.” As a Native woman whose college educated mother chose to raise me on the reservation in order to be close to my culture and always be proud of who I am and where I came from, I was deeply offended by your trivialization of my culture.
‘Looking Hot’ is the second single from No Doubt’s latest album, Push and Shove, which was released earlier this year. It is the group’s first album in over ten years.
