Nicki Minaj pulls out of Jeddah concert following backlash from fans over Saudi Arabia's human rights record
- Nicki Minaj has pulled out of a concert in Saudi Arabia after a backlash from fans
- The rapper, raised in Queens, provoked a storm when gig was first announced
- 'After careful reflection I have decided to no longer move forward with my scheduled concert at Jeddah World Fest,' the Starships performer said Monday
- 'I believe it is important for me to make clear my support for the rights of women, the LGBTQ community and freedom of expression,' Minaj said in a statement
- Over the past several months, the Kingdom has seen performances by Mariah Carey, Enrique Iglesias, the Black Eyed Peas, Sean Paul, David Guetta and Tiesto
Nicki Minaj has pulled out of a concert in Saudi Arabia following an angry backlash from the LGBT community, who hit out at the country's poor human rights record.
The rapper, who was raised in Queens, New York, provoked an online storm when she agreed to perform at Jeddah World Fest, prompting supporters to call for her to renounce the country over its treatment of women, gays and minorities.
On Tuesday, it appears the Trinidad and Tobago-born songstress, who often performs in her underwear, bowed to pressure, announcing: 'After careful reflection I have decided to no longer move forward with my scheduled concert at Jeddah World Fest.
The rapper, who was raised in Queens, New York, provoked an online storm when she agreed to perform at Jeddah World Fest, prompting supporters to call for her to renounce the country over its controversial human rights record
Pictured: The Grammy-nominated star in her new video, Megatron
'While I want nothing more than to bring my show to fans in Saudi Arabia, after better educating myself on the issues, I believe it is important for me to make clear my support for the rights of women, the LGBTQ community and freedom of expression,' Minaj said in a statement.
The artist was originally scheduled to headline the concert on July 18.
The Human Rights Foundation issued a statement last week, calling for Minaj and other performers to pull out of the show.
In Saudi Arabia, gender segregation between single men and women is still enforced in many restaurants, coffee shops, public schools and universities.
Minaj was originally scheduled to headline the concert on July 18
But in a bid to appear progressive, other rules have loosened with women now allowed to drive and attend events in sports stadiums.
Jeddah World Fest, which is alcohol and drug-free, is open to people 16 and older and will take place at the King Abdullah Sports Stadium in the Red Sea city.
Other performers include former One Direction member Liam Payne and DJ-producer Steve Aoki.
Saudi organizers said the concert will be broadcast globally. The Kingdom is also promising quick electronic visas for international visitors who want to attend.
Social media reacted to Minaj's announcement, with some asking why she agreed in the first place
Minaj at an event with a man dressed as the pope. She wore a red dress with a hood that's been likened to the Martha's from the Handmaid's Tale, Little Red Riding Hood and a nun
Over the past several months, the Kingdom has seen performances by Mariah Carey, Enrique Iglesias, the Black Eyed Peas, Sean Paul, David Guetta and Tiesto.
That is a stark change from when Saudi morality police would raid establishments that played loud music.
The reform is seen by some as an attempt to blunt public frustration over an economic downturn and high youth unemployment.
Saudi Arabia is also moving to boost domestic spending on entertainment and tourism, as the regime reels from low oil prices.
While Saudi Arabia is yet to offer tourist visas, the country has fast-tracked electronic permits for international visitors to attend such festivals to further boost revenue.
