Travis Scott Responds To LGBTQ+ Community Amid ‘Astroworld’ Cover Backlash

By Jessica McKinney

Travis Scott sparked outrage after he shared an updated version of his Astroworld cover art which seemed to crop out trans model Amanda Lepore. Despite some critics labeling the rapper as transphobic, Scott released a statement on Twitter on Saturday (Aug. 4), suggesting the whole issue was a “misunderstanding.”

The lengthy post appeared to be addressed to Lepore and the rest of the LGBTQ+ community. “Astroworld is about love and expression not hate,” he wrote. “This is very important for me to speak about: Growing up I’ve been taught to accept everyone, not to cast people away but bring them in your home! I have nothing but respect for the LGBTQ community. I want to use my voice to make it clear that everyone on this planet is as equal and fucking awesome to the next.”

He also explained the thought behind the creative process for the cover shoot, which was handled by David LaChappelle. “Me and LaChapelle set out to create images that I grew up watching him create for years that inspire me today,” he explained before reaching out to Lepore directly. “Yo Amanda, you did upstage everyone even me… Sorry for the misunderstanding.”

As previously reported, Trav’s camp confirmed with TMZ that he was not involved in the final edit of the album cover. Nevertheless, the rapper revealed that fans will be able to get their hands on the original image as well as a few others soon. “I can’t wait for everyone to see the booklet that me and Dave put together that includes all these images,” he added.

READ MORE: Travis Scott Reveals ‘AstroWorld’ Cover Art

This post Travis Scott Responds To LGBTQ+ Community Amid ‘Astroworld’ Cover Backlash first appeared on Vibe.