Grammy Chief Apologizes For “Step Up” Comments Regarding The Lack Of Women Artists Honored
Grammy chief Neil Portnow, who looks like he has the musical taste of Tuscon, Arizona actuary, made a few girls cry with his mean comments about women needing to “step up” if they wanted to win Grammys and have nice executive jobs in the music industry. Well, he’s sorry, ok?
Neil has issued his official apology after his remarks drew criticism from many, including a number of high profile recording artists such as Pink, Sheryl Crow and Iggy Azalea (what’s good Bono? Bruno? Nothing to say? Yeah, no famous dudes spoke up). Neil must have used “the form” because his apology ticks all usual boxes for “please let me keep my job” apologies. Variety reports:
“Sunday night, I was asked a question about the lack of female artist representation in certain categories of this year’s Grammy Awards,” it reads. “Regrettably, I used two words, ‘step up,’ that, when taken out of context, do not convey my beliefs and the point I was trying to make.
He went on to provide further context for his out of context remarks.
“Our industry must recognize that women who dream of careers in music face barriers that men have never faced. We must actively work to eliminate these barriers and encourage women to live their dreams and express their passion and creativity through music. We must welcome, mentor, and empower them. Our community will be richer for it.
This is some condescending bullshit right here. Does he think female musicians are just sitting in their kitchen with songs in their hearts, waiting for the moment to come when “The Industry” sends out the telegram telling them it’s ok to drop the baby and come on out to Hollywood? Pink reminds him that women have not been quietly waiting around for permission. They’ve already done the work, where’s the recognition?
— P!nk (@Pink) January 29, 2018
C’mon, Pink! He’s trying his best. He just aint good with words!
He concluded:
“I regret that I wasn’t as articulate as I should have been in conveying this thought. I remain committed to doing everything I can to make our music community a better, safer, and more representative place for everyone.”
Maybe he should start by stepping up himself and advertising his job in Ladies’ Home Journal.
Pic: Wenn.com