No Doubt Apologizes After Video Offends Native Americans

(Photo: Reuters/Lucas Jackson)
Designer Gwen Stefani speaks backstage before showing her L.A.M.B. Fall/Winter 2011 collection during New York Fashion Week February 17, 2011.

By Emma Koonse , Christian Post Reporter

November 5, 2012|2:36 pm

No Doubt's new music video for "Looking Hot" debuted, was criticized, and was pulled just hours later Saturday. The band offered their apologies.

The clip posted to YouTube Friday featured the group's lead vocalist Gwen Stefani dressed in feathered headpieces and Native American-inspired clothing. Many users commented on the video within hours of its debut, saying that No Doubt's Wide West theme was offensive.

In an open letter on behalf of Stefani, Tony Kanal, Tom Dumont, and Adrian Young, No Doubt offered a mea culpa for their depiction of Native Americans in the music video.

"As a multi-racial band our foundation is built upon both diversity and consideration for other cultures," started the Grammy Award-winning band.

"Our intention with our new video was never to offend, hurt or trivialize Native American friends and Native American people, their culture or their history," No Doubt continued. "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 group noted that their music is inspired by friends, family and fans and promotes "respect, unity, and inclusiveness."

"We sincerely apologize to the Native American community and anyone else offended by this video," penned the band. "Being hurtful to anyone is simply not who we are."

The apology was posted to No Doubt's official Twitter page, in addition to members Young and Dumont posting it to their personal accounts.

Although the "Looking Hot" clip offended some fans, others defended No Doubt.

"Concentrate on the real issues instead of attacking a band that has never shown any racism or hate," one user wrote.

The band is currently in the U.K. promoting their new album "Push and Shove," released in September.