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| NEW YORK, NY - JULY 27: Adrian Young, Tony Kanal, Gwen Stefani and Tom Dumont of No Doubt perform on ABC's 'Good Morning America' at Rumsey Playfield, Central Park on July 27, 2012 in New York City. (Image credit: Getty Images via @daylife) |
No Doubt's second single off their new album is called "Looking Hot," but it looks like the video for the tune has gotten the band in hot water. The clip, which debuted Friday and features an Old West cowboys-and-Indians theme, has raised ire in the Native American community, resulting in its removal from all outlets.
In the video, Stefani--who is of European descent--dresses up as a Native American princess, complete with feather headdresses, beaded jewelry, and long braids (which, incidentally, she keeps her usual platinum blond). Bassist Tony Kanal--who is of Eastern Indian heritage--plays a tribal chief. Drummer Adrian Young and guitarist Tom Dumont portray traditional cowboys, who capture Stefani and tie her up.
One would assume that the band didn't intend any offense; however, November is Native American Heritage Month. And, this certainly isn't the first time this sort of playacting has come under scrutiny (one only needs to look to the sports world for a boatload of examples).
At any rate, No Doubt has pulled the video, and put an apology on their official website.
"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," it reads. "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.
