'I'm Offended': Why Is Singer India Arie Mad At Jimmy Fallon And Justin Timberlake?
As if Justin Timberlake needed any more critics this week, neo-soul singer India Arie went on a Twitter rant slamming Timberlake and late-night television talk show host Jimmy Fallon.
Timberlake made an appearance on Fallon’s show after his controversial halftime performance at the Super Bowl Sunday night.
Jimmy Fallon And Justin Timberlake Fumble?
The two took part in Fallon’s bit called “Songversation” in which they break out into song during a conversation. This wasn’t the first time they did so but India Arie had lots to say about it on social media this time, considering two of her albums are also called Songversation.
She first demanded that Fallon should respect her career and contributions to the music industry. While one fan urged Arie to “drag” Fallon, she said that even though that won’t be happening, she wants Fallon to acknowledge her music.
She also said that it might not matter to Fallon, but it does matter to her. She went as far as telling Fallon now that he knows the history, to not do the segment again under that name.
There’s no word yet on whether Fallon will stop doing the bit or change the name. Still, Arie reiterated that it’s something sacred to her. She even went through the hashtag #Songversation and schooled unknowing fans that she was the originator of the term.
“I hear @jimmyfallon show appropriated my sacred word #songversation Last night for a skit… just be clear – I’m offended…,” Arie wrote.
She agreed with a fan that said Fallon and Timberlake have “appropriated” Black culture while “disregard[ing]” Arie.
“This is why we get mad,” she said. “It needs to stop already! #songversation is SACRED.”
She went on to post the album cover of her project of the same name.
The 'Songversation' Conversation
She continued her message and let fans know that not only is Songversation the title of two of her albums, but also all of her concerts for the last eight years. Her latest album was called Songversation: Medicine and hit shelves last June.
#SongVersation is the name of 2 of my albums AND ALL of my performances - since 2010 - those who have witnessed ~ KNOW. I demand reapect. https://t.co/UoHdHWRN4Z
— India.Arie (@indiaarie) February 5, 2018
Fallon and Timberlake have not responded to Arie’s statements against them. However, Timberlake has had lots of criticism of his own this week after his Super Bowl performance. While he belted out his biggest hits as a solo artist such as "Rock Your Body" and "Mirrors," many fans had mixed reactions about his tribute to the late iconic pop star Prince.
