After a long wait, Travis Scott fans were overjoyed when he released his highly anticipated third album this week. However, rather than focus on the 17-track new project, many people's attention was dragged away from Travis' work and towards outrage.
The release of ASTROWORLD was quickly marred by controversy following Scott's decision - apparently at the last minute - to remove trans model Amanda Lepore from the album cover artwork, and soon saw fans accusing the rapper of being transphobic.
It all started when the singer enthusiastically posted his eye-catching album cover to Instagram on Tuesday. Shot by renowned photographer David LaChapelle, models were featured in various poses in front of a giant blow-up replica of Scott's head.
However, excitement quickly turned to confusion when Lepore posted her own version of the cover, pointing out that she had been omitted from the picture.
"It was great being part of @david_lachapelle s incredible photograph of @travisscott s albulm cover but I’m curious why I’m not on the picture @travisscott posted ?❤️? #amandalepore #glamourgirl A girl can’t help it❗️Too distracting for the eyes ❗️Upstaged everyone in the photograph ❗️Oh well........... I love @david_lachapelleand @travisscott ❗️Love and kisses ?❤️?"
Despite her seemingly jovial attitude to being removed, fans weren't impressed, with some even naming the singer prejudiced against trans people.
Now, Scott himself has responded to the outrage, shutting down any rumours that he is transphobic and claiming that his new album is about "love and expression not hate".
In an Instagram post, the rapper denied allegations, naming the incident a "misunderstanding". "Thank you David Lachappelle and Amanda Lepore and everyone that came out to make all the covers and the vision come to life!!! ASTROWORLD IS ABOUT LOVE AND EXPRESSION NOT HATE!" he wrote.
The 26-year-old continued: "This is very important for me to speak up about: Growing up I've been taught to accept everyone, not to cast people away but bring them in your home! I have nothing but respect for the LGBTQ community. I want to use my voice to make it clear that everyone on this planet is as equal and fucking awesome to the next. Me and Lachappelle set out too create images that I grew up watching him create for years that inspire me today."
He ended his post by supporting Lepore's notion that she had upstaged him, putting: "Yo Amanda you did upstage everyone even me and I can't wait for everyone to see the booklet that me and Dave put together that includes all these images. Thank you for being apart of it. Sorry for the misunderstanding. Love you guys and THANK YOU ALL!!! EVERY ONE IS WELCOME TO ASTROWORLD!"
Showing there were no hard feelings, Lepore herself responded to Travis’ apology, writing: "Nothing but LOVE for @travisscott and @david_lachapelle thank u for having me and i’m glad to be part of this album."
It's good to hear that there was no ill will intended in Scott's album cover, and we look forward to listening to the album.
