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Experimental Canadian musician Grimes has upset some members of the LGBT community with her decision to play a show in Russia, despite an LGBT boycott of performances in the country.
In a controversy that evokes memories of Queen playing in South Africa in 1984, she has been forced to defend her decision against stinging criticism from some parts.
In an official statement on her Tumblr page, Grimes said: "Yes, I am playing in Moscow in 2 days and no, I do not feel bad about it. I don’t think that denying and ignoring the gay community in Russia is cool."
Watch Grimes' video for 'Crystal Ball' below
The singer was mentioned in a list of Canadian gay icons back in 2012, so it is clearly a subject matter that she is attuned to. Turning to the potential impact of those close to her, she said: "I have gay friends in Russia and the only strait person on the Grimes team is James as far as I know lol. We are entering safely and it means the world to me to be returning 2 Russia"
It's clear she has thought about the fallout from her decision, but is comfortable that she's made the right choice, as she concludes: "It doesn't hurt the government if I refuse to tour there. Just regular people. So I don’t think it’s wrong to be doing this. Refusing to go to Russia would only hurt fans."
Below: Grimes live in Manchester
