DaBaby’s recent appearance on “What Now? With Trevor Noah,” a Spotify original podcast hosted by the former “Daily Show” host, provided a glimpse into the rapper’s life journey and the controversy surrounding his homophobic remarks at Rolling Loud Miami in 2021. Trevor Noah, known for his empathetic interviewing style, delved into DaBaby’s past and his meteoric rise to success.
In the interview, DaBaby opened up about his upbringing and struggles within his family and community. Both he and Noah, who grew up under apartheid legislation in South Africa, shared a common thread of feeling a sense of “danger” and the need to protect themselves and their loved ones.
However, the conversation took a critical turn when Noah addressed the homophobic remarks made by DaBaby during his performance in 2021. Noah probed DaBaby about his intentions behind those comments, to which the rapper offered vague justifications about creating a “transitional moment” in his set. DaBaby failed to acknowledge the harm caused by his words to the LGBTQ+ community.
Noah also discussed the longstanding issue of homophobia in hip hop and how artists’ comments can perpetuate harmful stereotypes. Despite Noah’s persistent efforts to encourage DaBaby to apologize and understand the impact of his actions, the rapper remained defensive and failed to offer a genuine apology.
It’s disheartening that in a safe space for vulnerability and redemption, DaBaby missed the opportunity to genuinely apologize and acknowledge the hurt caused to the LGBTQ+ community. Trevor Noah’s determined attempts to guide the conversation towards understanding and empathy were met with resistance, leaving questions about whether DaBaby truly comprehends the consequences of his actions.
The interview serves as a reminder of the work that still needs to be done to address homophobia in the hip hop industry and the importance of holding public figures accountable for their words and actions.