Nicki Minaj has always been able to stir up quite the buzz for many of her videos, but this time its different. We’ve all seen the cover art for Nicki’s latest lyric video "Only," which features Lil Wayne, Drake and Chris Brown. While the video and it’s art may be nicely done to some, there’s a huge percentage of listeners who have criticized Minaj for the visual.
The animated visual showcases the Young Money rapper at the center of a mass rally similar to the infamous propaganda events organized by the Nazi regime. Throughout the video a swastika-like symbol adorns flags and boards.
Minaj has issued an apology, taking "full responsibility" for the clip, and now the director is speaking up.
Jeff Osborne, the creative mind behind the video, goes furthermore to clear the names of the artists by stating: "Before I start, be clear that these are my personal views and not the views of Nicki Minaj, Drake, Lil Wayne, Chris Brown, or Young Money."
In an exclusive statement to Myspace, Jeff says:
First, I’m not apologizing for my work, nor will I dodge the immediate question. The flags, armbands, and gas mask (and perhaps my use of symmetry?) are all representative of Nazism.
But a majority of the recognizable models/symbols are American: MQ9 Reaper Drone, F22 Raptor, Sidewinder missile, security cameras, M60, SWAT uniform, General’s uniform, the Supreme court, and the Lincoln Memorial. What’s also American is the 1st Amendment, which I’ve unexpectedly succeeded in showing how we willfully squeeze ourselves out of that right every day.
Despite the fact heavy religious and economic themes were glossed over, there’s also Russian T-90 tanks, Belgian FN FAL, German mp5 (not manufactured until 1966), an Italian Ferrari, and a Vatican Pope.
As far as an explanation, I think its actually important to remind younger generations of atrocities that occurred in the past as a way to prevent them from happening in the future. And the most effective way of connecting with people today is through social media and pop culture. So if my work is misinterpreted because it’s not a sappy tearjerker, sorry I’m not sorry. What else is trending?”
Can we really blame him for his viewpoint or using his creative ability? Seems though he will not apologize for his art, he was simply trying to make an educational approach.
Be on the lookout for Nicki’s new album, The Pinkprint, dropping on December 15.
Check out the controversial video below.
