Following the modest reception received by their long awaited comeback record, Push And Shove, everybody’s favourite female fronted punk turned pop outfit has once again raised eyebrows, with news that the group’s latest video clip contains culturally sensitive material.
The film clip for No Doubt’s latest single, ‘Looking Hot’, has been pulled following a backlog of complaints from concerned viewers, citing that some scenes may be detrimental to Native American cultures.
Following a Wild West theme, the clip (which you can view above) features tee-pees, feather headdresses, fire dancing, and other Native American styled props in a cowboys versus Indians setting, featuring Gwen Stefani tooling about in a Navajo headdress.
An overwhelming response forced the band to immediately remove the clip from all digital mediums, including YouTube and music video streaming service VEVO, in an attempt to contain the backlash.
Following the withdrawal of the clip, band members were quick to respond via the band website, www.nodoubt.com, in which they released a statement explaining the fiasco.
“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”.
The band later added: “Although we consulted with Native American friends and Native American studies experts at the University of California, we realise now that we have offended people. This is of great concern to us and we are removing the video immediately.”
The band was clearly adamant to quickly repair any lost credibility, with yet more apologetic statements issued, further displaying the group’s empathy to those potentially offended.
“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”.
In addition to the overwhelming number of complaints, the band’s Facebook has also received an activity overload, which has generated a battlefield between patriotic No Doubt supporters and offended viewers of the clip.
Aussie supporters will ‘no doubt’ be keeping a close eye on the group’s movements, as some members have hinted at an appearance on our shores in the near future for a tour of their latest album, if they can find a band baby sitter that is…
