Is No Doubt “Looking Hot” Music Video Racist: No Doubt Sorry For Offending Native Americans

November 5, 2012 by Hollywoodite

No Doubt faced criticism this weekend over their newest music video, Looking Hot. Which apparently contained stereotypical, outdated, caricature, offensive depictions of Native Americans.

The music video was released November 3, and quickly generated backlash from fans and the Native American community soon after which the video was pulled from YouTube.

The band quickly apologised with the following on their website: “Being hurtful to anyone is simply not who we are. As a multi-racial band our foundation is built upon both diversity and consideration for other cultures. Our intention with our new video was never to offend, hurt or trivialize Native American people, their culture or their history. Although we consulted with Native American friends and Native American studies experts at the University of California, we realize now that we have offended people.  This is of great concern to us and we are removing the video immediately. The music that inspired us when we started the band, and the community of friends, family, and fans that surrounds us was built upon respect, unity and inclusiveness. We sincerely apologize to the Native American community and anyone else offended by this video.”

Melina Matsoukas, who directed the video, has not yet offered comment nor apology when the video treatment was probably her idea (although she likely collaborated heavily with the band).

Matsoukas also directed Rihanna’s Rude Boy music video, which allegedly borrowed heavily from M.I.A.’s early music videos. And Matsoukas is responsible for allegedly stealing creative works from photographer David LaChapelle for Rihanna’s S&M music video over which singer and director were sued. That was eventually settled out of court.

Matsoukas also directed Ashanti’s 50s housewife-theme music video Good Good in 2008 then ripped off her own idea for Beyonce’s Why Don’t You Love Me in 2010, to the chagrin of fans who assumed one artist copied the other.

The Looking Hot music video is back online already and it can be found below so you can judge for yourself whether it’s offensive.