Recording artist M.I.A. has revealed that she learned of her dismissal from Kid Cudi's tour not through official channels, but from an unexpected phone call from her son while he was at school.
During an appearance on the New York Times' "Popcast," the "Paper Planes" artist discussed the circumstances surrounding her removal from "The Rebel Ragers Tour," claiming that neither Kid Cudi nor his representatives ever contacted her directly about the decision. According to M.I.A., she was in another state when she received the call from her son, who told her, "Oh, I guess you're coming home," she said, speaking to TMZ.com.
The artist stated she had no understanding of what her son meant until he forwarded her social media posts announcing her removal from the tour. She further claimed that she attempted to speak with Kid Cudi following the controversy but that he refused to meet with her. The two have not spoken about the matter, according to M.I.A.
The removal followed public backlash over controversial comments about immigrants that M.I.A. made during a Dallas tour stop. Kid Cudi subsequently informed fans that he would not continue to feature someone on the tour who was upsetting concertgoers.
In the interview, M.I.A. disputed the criticism that followed her comments, asserting that a false narrative about her political views gained traction online. She suggested that her identity as an immigrant became entangled in the backlash, emphasizing that this aspect of her identity cannot be diminished regardless of media portrayal.
The interview arrives as M.I.A. pursues a $2.8 million lawsuit against Kid Cudi, in which she alleges he breached their agreement by removing her from the tour. The legal action underscores the significant financial and professional stakes involved in the dispute between the two artists.
The situation highlights the complexities that can arise when artistic collaborations intersect with public controversy, particularly in an era where social media amplifies both criticism and response. The case also raises questions about professional communication standards in the music industry and the obligations artists have to one another when contractual agreements are in place.