Travis Scott Addresses Amanda Lepore’s Absence on Astroworld Cover Art
Leading up to the release of his new album Astroworld, Travis Scott revealed the record’s cover art, shot by photographer Dave LaChapelle, who then shared alternate artwork featuring the iconic transgender model Amanda Lepore. Scott then posted a new version in which Lepore was notably absent, leading to backlash from people who speculated that the action was rooted in transphobia. Take a look at the new versions below.
Now, Travis Scott has issued a statement addressing Lepore’s absence from the Astroworld artwork. “Yo Amanda you did upstage everyone even me 😆and i can’t wait for everyone to see the booklet that me and Dave put together that includes all these images," he wrote. “Sorry for the misunderstanding... EVERY ONE IS WELCOME TO ASTROWORLD!” Earlier in the statement, he clarifies, “I have nothing but respect for the LGBTQ community.” Pitchfork has reached out to representatives to Travis Scott for further comment.
Earlier this week, Lepore wrote in the caption of an Instagram post: “It was great being part of @david_lachapelle s incredible photograph of @travisscott s album cover but I’m curious why I’m not on the picture @travisscott posted.” Scott’s camp reportedly denied removing Lepore from the cover, while LaChapelle addressed the subject in an Instagram comment: “Everybody wants to explain everything with some phobia or whatever. This is a case of something else she can't seem to control lol.” He later clarified in a separate comment: “Amanda was taken out because she just upstaged everyone.” The model then edited her original IG caption to add, “A girl can't help it! Too distracting for the eyes! Upstaged everyone in the photograph!”
Astroworld arrived last night, hours after Travis Scott performed at Lollapalooza 2018. It included the Drake-featuring “Sicko Mode” and the opening track “Stargazing.” Other contributors include Frank Ocean, the Weeknd, Tame Impala’s Kevin Parker, James Blake, and many more.
Read “5 Takeaways from Travis Scott’s New Album, Astroworld” on the Pitch.
