The most anticipated event in Riyadh finally took place. But the abrupt ending was something nobody expected. So here’s all about what happened at the Iggy Azalea concert at Gamers8.
Iggy Azalea’s Concert At Gamers8
Iggy Azalea, the Australian rapper, recently performed at the Gamers8 esports tournament in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. However, her performance was cut short due to a wardrobe malfunction. Her lyrics were widely criticised for opposing Islamic values. During her performance, Azalea’s pants split on stage. Consequently, she was not allowed to finish her concert. She later apologised to her fans on Twitter for the incident.
Azalea’s set included the song “Goddess.” She exclaimed to the audience, “Ladies, make some noise, it’s a woman’s world!” Nonetheless, her lyrics faced condemnation for conflicting Islamic values, both inside and outside Saudi Arabia. The lines “preaching about prophets, it ain’t no one man can stop us, bow down to a goddess” generated the most immense backlash.
Social media followers from multiple countries commented about their opinions.. A user on X (formerly known as Twitter) wrote, “Saudi Arabia just sentenced the user of an anonymous Twitter account with 10 followers to death for criticising Mohammed bin Salman. Meanwhile, Iggy Azalea’s concert in Riyadh was said to have hurt the sentiments of Saudi people as she mocked Allah and his Prophets in front of thousands.
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Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030
IGGY AZALEA made history as The first twerk dancer in Saudi Arabia ❤️🔥#Gamers8#موسم_الجيمرز pic.twitter.com/pWBFb12y30
— Concerts Saudi (@ConcertsSaudi) August 26, 2023
The performance comes as Saudi Arabia increasingly opens up to entertainment, aligning with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030. This effort aims to diversify the kingdom’s economy and attract more tourists. However, Azalea’s performance language shocked people due to its contradiction with Saudi Arabia’s Islamic and cultural norms.
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, initiated by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, strives for enhanced economic, social, and cultural diversity. It encompasses multiple programs and initiatives with three key pillars: a dynamic society, a prosperous economy, and an aspiring nation. The vision leverages the nation’s innate advantages. It includes its strategic location, substantial investment capabilities, and pivotal role within the Arab and Islamic realms.
There will be more such concerts and international artists visiting the Kingdom of Saudi to perform in the near future.
Cover Image Courtesy: Instagram/Iggy Azalea, Canva Stock Images