A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped Azealia Banks's life and career.
Azealia Banks is an American rapper and singer from Harlem, New York City. She gained initial recognition through Myspace in 2008 and signed with XL Recordings at 18. Her career involved contracts with major labels like Interscope, Polydor, Parlophone and Warner Records, but she ultimately became an independent artist, founding her own label, Chaos & Glory Recordings. She quit her label in 2023.
2015: Homophobic Remarks During In-Flight Meltdown
In 2015, Azealia Banks used homophobic language during an in-flight meltdown, leading to accusations of homophobia.
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May 2016: Racist and Homophobic Rant
In May 2016, Azealia Banks posted what media outlets described as a racist and homophobic rant against Zayn Malik, resulting in professional repercussions.
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October 2016: Police Report Against Russell Crowe
In October 2016, Azealia Banks filed a police report against Russell Crowe, claiming assault and use of racial slurs.
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December 2016: Miscarriage Revelation
In December 2016, Azealia Banks revealed that she had a miscarriage and asked her fans for advice and support.
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January 2019: Xenophobic Remarks About Irish People
In January 2019, Azealia Banks posted xenophobic remarks about Irish people after performing in Ireland.
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August 8, 2020: Intention to End Life by Euthanasia
On August 8, 2020, Azealia Banks announced her intention to end her life by euthanasia and document the process on film.
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2020: Accusations of Homophobia Regarding Gay Men
In 2020, Azealia Banks said gay men were "appropriating horse culture" by using harnesses, ketamine, and sexual lubricant, leading to accusations of homophobia.
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2020: Ordered to Seek Mental Health Treatment
In 2020, during a plea deal in Manhattan Court, Azealia Banks was ordered to seek mental health treatment.
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2021: Views on Trans Women
In 2021, Azealia Banks said that trans women are "just gay boys on hormones using male aggression to force their ways into women's spaces."
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November 2023: Accusations Against Diplo
In November 2023, Azealia Banks accused Diplo of sexual coercion during the time they worked together when she was 17 years old.
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2023: Views on Gender-Affirming Surgery Funding
In 2023, Azealia Banks argued that state funding for other healthcare issues should take precedence over funding for gender-affirming surgery, which she compared to cosmetic surgery.
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