Kendrick Lamar Impersonator Puts On Black Face, Sings N-Word On 'Your Face Sounds Familiar'
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A recent episode of the European talent competition series, Your Face Sounds Familiar, has ignited controversy over cultural sensitivity and the boundaries of impersonation. In this controversial incident, a Polish contestant, Kuba Szmajkowski, took on the persona of American rapper Kendrick Lamar for his performance. However, it was his use of blackface makeup and the unedited utterance of a racial slur that left audiences both shocked and outraged.
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Contestant On a Talent Show Sparks Controversy Regarding Racism
Your Face Sounds Familiar is a European series where contestants strive to replicate the performances and personas of well-known musicians. Participants are judged on their ability to faithfully mimic the style, voice, and stage presence of these artists. The format provides a platform for showcasing an individual’s musical talent and impersonation skills.
Szmajkowski’s choice to impersonate Kendrick Lamar is not inherently problematic. In fact, it’s a testament to Lamar’s cultural impact and musical prominence. However, it’s the execution of this impersonation that has sparked controversy.
Prior to his performance of Kendrick Lamar’s hit song “HUMBLE,” Szmajkowski posted an Instagram video that documented his transformation. The video included dark brown face makeup and an attempt at cornrows. This choice, coupled with his use of the N-word during the performance, drew criticism from viewers and industry observers.
Despite the backlash surrounding his impersonation, Szmajkowski emerged as the winner of Season 19 of Your Face Sounds Familiar. This victory further fueled the debate about the boundaries of cultural appropriation. Additionally, it highlights the responsibility of the show‘s producers to address such issues.
The Show Has a History of Cultural Insensitivity
The controversy surrounding Szmajkowski’s impersonation is not an isolated incident within the Your Face Sounds Familiar franchise. Previous seasons have seen white contestants portraying iconic Black musicians such as Snoop Dogg, Michael Jackson, and Bob Marley. The use of blackface makeup and other racially insensitive elements has often characterized these impersonations.
It’s important to note that the show’s format extends beyond Poland, with iterations in various markets, including former Yugoslavia and parts of Central Europe. The cultural context in these regions differs significantly from that of the USA and UK. In the USA and UK historical legacies of colonialism and racial oppression have shaped societal attitudes toward issues of race and identity. As a result, incidents like this one may not receive the same level of criticism and outrage as they would in Western countries.
In response to incidents of cultural insensitivity on the show, some versions of Your Face Sounds Familiar took steps to address the issue. For example, the producers of Tvoje tvář má známý hlas, the Czech Republic’s version of the show, announced in 2021 that they would ban blackface makeup. We are yet to see if this incident will motivate the producers in Poland to take similar actions.
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