Singer Rita Ora has posted an apology to Twitter after receiving harsh criticism from other popular artists about her newly released single, “Girls”.

The single, which features Cardi B, Bebe Rexha and Charlie XCX, has sparked controversy over its lyrics which have offended members within the LGBTQ+ community. Celebrities such as Hayley Kiyoko and Kehlani have voiced their negative opinion towards the song, with Kiyoko stating in an Instagram post:

“I know this wasn’t the intention of the artists on the song, but it’s the lack of consideration behind these lyrics that really get me. (…) We can and should do better”.
@hayleykiyoko on Instagram
























 

 

 

 

Initially, none of the artists featured on the song seemed to come forward with a response, however Rita Ora took to Twitter a couple of days later to reply to the negativity circling her work. Within her apology she stated:

“Girls was written to represent my truth and is an accurate account of a very real and honest experience in my life (…) I am sorry (if) how I expressed myself in my song has hurt anyone. I would never intentionally cause harm to other LGBTQ+ people or anyone”.
@RitaOra on Twitter

This response provoked a mainly positive reaction within her own personal fanbase, and many of her fans replied to show their support for her after a clearly difficult time.

Even though the song has received a mixed response, it seems to still be performing well in terms of popularity, with nearly five million views only four days after release.