In a recent event that has stirred controversy, Australian rap artist Iggy Azalea performed a song during her concert in Riyadh, part of the “Gamers” festival, which some believe insulted divine entities. The performance coincided with an incident where her pants ripped, revealing sensitive parts of her body. This led to her being prevented from continuing her performance, which many activists described as “depraved” and “degrading.” They expressed their dismay at such concerts being held under the patronage and support of the Saudi regime.
الشيخ البشير عصام المراكشي @aissambachir الفاضل:
الذي يعرف عنكم هو قربكم واطلاعكم لما يجري في مواقع التواصل الاجتماعي، فقبل أيام انتشر مقطع لمغنية تتطاول على الذات الالهية في حفلة أقامتها هيئة الترفيه في الرياض، برأيكم ماهو دور المؤثرين والمشاهير في إنكار هذا الكفر البواح؟ pic.twitter.com/19Rru2iuZ1— علماء السلطان (@HDMshk2) September 3, 2023
During her Riyadh concert, Azalea performed her well-known song titled “Just Wanna” with provocative and suggestive movements. The lyrics of the song, performed on stage at the Boulevard, contained perceived insults and references to divine entities.
Iggy Azalea performando “Just Wanna” durante seu show no #Gamers8 na Arábia Saudita. pic.twitter.com/1NvY4i7Bvu
— IGGY AZALEA BRASIL (@iggyazaleanobr) August 26, 2023
A video of the incident went viral, leading to widespread criticism on social media platforms. Many directed their anger towards Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and the head of the Saudi Entertainment Authority, Turki Al-Sheikh, blaming them for the westernization the Kingdom is undergoing. They also criticized the silence of religious scholars and preachers, urging them to take a stand against such events.
The concert concluded the second edition of the “Gamers Land of Champions” season, organized by the Saudi Electronic Sports Federation in Riyadh City Boulevard. The event combined sports and entertainment, featuring tournaments of popular electronic games with total prizes exceeding $45 million and concerts by top Arab and international artists.