The 2024 Glastonbury Festival, which featured numerous acclaimed performers, saw Paloma Faith grace the Pyramid Stage on June 30. However, the festival’s female artists, including Dua Lipa and SZA, faced significant criticism from some fans. Paloma Faith, known for her strong advocacy and vocal support for women in the music industry, took to social media to defend her fellow performers.
Paloma Faith’s Response to Criticism
In response to the backlash, Paloma Faith addressed the negative comments directed at female artists on her Instagram story. She emphasized that women on stage deserve respect and recognition for their talents and efforts rather than ridicule and shame. Faith wrote, “I think people need to understand that women are not on stage to be ridiculed and shamed. We are there in all our female boss b**** power and we stand by one another.” She also pointed out that such harsh criticisms can deeply affect the spirits of these artists, who read and absorb every comment.
Criticism Faced by Dua Lipa and SZA
The controversy began after Dua Lipa’s performance on June 28 encountered technical difficulties, leading to accusations of miming. Fans noticed audio cuts during the live broadcast on BBC’s iPlayer, causing Lipa’s voice to sound flat at times. Responding to the claims, Dua Lipa clarified in an interview with The Mail that she does not mime and that the issues were due to a sound delay in the broadcast coverage.
SZA, another headliner, faced criticism for allegedly not drawing a large enough crowd. Trolls on social media questioned her suitability as a headliner for the festival. Addressing the negative comments, SZA took to X (formerly Twitter), expressing the courage required to perform publicly despite the harsh judgments. She stated, “The bravery required to be alive in public is remarkable. S/o everybody doing that sh*t.”
Paloma Faith’s Advocacy for Female Performers
Paloma Faith did not shy away from expressing her dismay at the treatment of her fellow artists. She praised both Dua Lipa and SZA for their exceptional talent and entertainment power, labeling them as her favorites. In her Instagram story, she passionately urged, “SO GIVE WOMEN A GODDAMN BREAK.” Faith’s vocal support highlights the solidarity among female musicians in the industry.
On-Stage Advocacy at Glastonbury
During her own set at Glastonbury, Paloma Faith extended her advocacy beyond defending her peers. She addressed the audience with a plea to men about understanding and supporting their partners. Faith remarked, “So all I’m asking, this is a plea, I’m talking about men, if you are married… and I just want you to notice that if a woman does the same action every single day, it means it needs doing, so don’t wait to ask to do it, just do it.” She dedicated her performance to single mothers, further emphasizing her commitment to supporting women from all walks of life.
Paloma Faith’s spirited defense of female artists at the 2024 Glastonbury Festival underscores the ongoing challenges women face in the music industry. By standing up against unfair criticism and advocating for her peers, Faith continues to champion the cause of women in music, inspiring fans and fellow artists alike to celebrate and support female talent.