BoohooMAN, a fashion retailer, has cut ties with rapper DaBaby after he made homophobic remarks during his 2021 Rolling Loud performance.
The news was announced on social media.
“[B]oohooMAN condemn the use of homophobic language and confirm we will no longer be working with DaBaby,” the statement read. “Diversity and inclusion are part of the boohoo Groups DNA and we pride ourselves on representing the diverse customers we serve across the globe.”
The brand launched a collaborative collection with the rapper on June 30.
On July 25, the rapper performed at Rolling Loud Festival and said the following: “If you didn’t show up today with HIV, AIDS, or any of them deadly sexually transmitted diseases, that’ll make you die in two to three weeks, then put your cellphone lighter up… Fellas, if you ain’t sucking d–- in the parking lot, put your cellphone lighter up.”
His comments were quickly denounced by social media users and musicians, including Dua Lipa, who collaborated with DaBaby on the remix to her song, “Levitating,” and Elton John.
Dua Lipa says she was “surprised and horrified.”
Da Baby took to Twitter to offer up a response to the critiques, writing “Anybody who done ever been effected bt AIDS/HIV y’all got the right to be upset[.]” In another tweet he said, “for any brands, networks, or artists that like to profit off of black rappers influence on the culture, without understanding it or having the patience to deal with what comes with the position we play in our culture. Keep yo money next time.”
Elton John says he was “shocked to read about the HIV misinformation and homophobic statements made at a recent DaBaby show.” He then shared stats about those who have been affected by HIV globally and why myths surrounding HIV should not be.
Photo credit:
Main Image: Prince Williams/Wireimage
Tout: Rich Fury/Getty Images