Artiste Leadpipe issued a public apology for the role he played in a controversial music video that stirred emotions across Barbados.
He also appealed to those involved in violent crime to stop and make the island a safe place all the time, a play on one of his popular songs.
The entertainer said although the video was made about 18 months ago, it recently surfaced and he promised to “Barbados proud in the future”.
Earlier today, telecommunications company Digicel announced it would no longer continue its influencer relationship with Leadpipe, but hours later, Sole Addiction said it would be sponsoring both him and fellow artiste Mole.
The full statement from Leadpipe follows below:
“I am taking this opportunity to express my sincerest regret to all of my Fans, Followers, Sponsors and the general public, for the unintentionally harmful lyrics used during a Dancehall Freestyle Mix, that I recorded a Year and a half ago, which recently surfaced and has been the subject of conversation and controversy across the island.
As many of you may know, I have always expressed my versatility as a Comedian along with recording as a Soca and Dancehall Entertainer to bring positive vibes and energy from my work, however my choice of content on that occasion has been deemed offensive to some. As a popular Entertainer, I understand my power as an Influencer, and I promise to make you and Barbados proud in the future.
I would also like to take this opportunity to appeal to our Youths and Elders, to stop the violence and let us continue to make Barbados a safe and enjoyable Country not sometimes but all the time!” (PR/SAT)
