Skepta recently decided to remove the cover art for his upcoming single “Gas Me Up (Diligent)” due to unexpected backlash. Many expressed concerns, likening the imagery to that of the Holocaust. In response, the rapper took to his social media to issue an apology, clarifying that the cover art was inspired by 1980s UK football culture, and he never intended any offensive connotations.
I can honestly see how my single artwork without context can be deemed offensive, especially in a time like this but again that was not my intention. But after some thought I don’t feel like I could continue being the artist you all know and love if my art is policed, I have to… pic.twitter.com/59oUOPe8Hp
— Big Smoke – (@Skepta) January 10, 2024
“I’ve been waiting to drop ‘Gas Me Up (Diligent)’ since teasing it April last year, worked hard getting the artwork right for my album rollout, which is about my parents coming to the UK in the 80’s, Skinhead, Football culture,” Skepta explained on X. Recognizing the unintended offense caused, he promptly removed the cover art and pledged to be more mindful in the future.
I’ve been waiting to drop Gas Me Up (Diligent) since teasing it April last year, worked hard getting the artwork right for my album rollout which is about my parents coming to the UK in the 80’s, Skinhead, Football culture and it has been taken offensively by many and I can…
— Big Smoke – (@Skepta) January 10, 2024
Skepta emphasized, “I can honestly see how my single artwork without context can be deemed offensive, especially in a time like this, but again that was not my intention.” To provide context, he shared images from the mood board for the 1980s UK story, part of his upcoming album Knife & Fork.
Despite the recent developments, “Gas Me Up (Diligent)” is still scheduled for release this Friday, January 12.
