KATSEYE, a girl group recently nominated for the Grammy Awards as Best New Artist, has disclosed that they have received multiple death threats since their debut. In an interview with BBC News, members expressed their shock at the severity of the threats, which have also targeted their families. “I try to tell myself it doesn’t matter, but if 1,000 people are sending you death threats, it’s jarring. Even if it’s not going to happen, it’s heavy,” shared Lara, one of the group’s members.
The group did not specify the exact nature of the threats but discussed the broader context of the harassment they have faced. “Although our career has been really short, we feel we’ve gotten many things already said to us, to our families,” Lara added. The comments they receive online often reflect a sexist attitude, reducing their worth to superficial rankings based on appearance and talent. “People see us as women to rank. They’ll grade us based on how attractive we are, our singing and dancing skills, and then add it all up to give us a percentage,” Lara explained.
Emphasizing Diversity and Empowerment
Despite the negativity, KATSEYE emphasizes diversity as a core part of their identity. Member Manon stated, “We exist for girls who are proud of their backgrounds. We want them to feel proud, regardless of their appearance or background.” This commitment to empowerment is central to their message and resonates with their fanbase.
KATSEYE’s journey has been marked by significant achievements, including the release of their second EP, Beautiful Chaos, in May 2023. The project has successfully entered global charts, further solidifying their presence in the music industry.
The group’s recent Grammy nomination has sparked discussions about the pressures and expectations placed on artists, particularly women in the industry. The juxtaposition of their artistic success against the backdrop of online harassment highlights the challenges many artists face today.
As KATSEYE continues to advocate for diversity and empowerment, they remain focused on their music and the positive impact they can have on their audience. The group’s courage in addressing these issues serves as a reminder of the resilience needed to navigate the complexities of fame in the modern age.