Recently, Lil Nas X has stirred up a storm on social media after he strongly reacted to accusations of copying Sega Bodega’s artwork for his upcoming project, Dreamboy. This incident has not only captured the attention of his fans but also the wider art community, as the rapper did not shy away from fiercely defending himself against online criticism.
Lil Nas X Sparks Controversy With Dreamboy Artwork
On November 13, Lil Nas X shared a promotional image for Dreamboy on Twitter (X), where he can be seen sitting at a desk in a wooden-paneled room, with a glowing silhouette behind him. Many fans quickly noticed the striking similarities between this image and the album cover for Angel on my Shoulder (2021) by Sega Bodega, which also features a man sitting at a desk in a wooden room with a glowing figure in the background.
This isn’t the first time Lil Nas X has faced allegations of copying or drawing too heavily from others’ work. In the past, his music video for Montero was criticized for its similarities to visuals by FKA Twigs, and his song Rodeo was accused of copyright infringement. Additionally, fans of Madonna have claimed that Nas X borrowed ideas from the pop legend, although the two have a cordial relationship.
Sega Bodega Responds to the Allegations
Almost immediately after the image was posted, Sega Bodega took to Twitter to criticize Lil Nas X for copying his artwork without adding any creative alterations. He wrote, “He didn’t even try to add anything to it, yeesh,” expressing his disappointment at the rapper for using the image without offering a unique version or creative spin.
Lil Nas X Claps Back at the Criticism
In response to the backlash, Lil Nas X did not hold back. On Twitter, he fired back: “Not everyone understands that copying can be part of art. If you don’t see the respect in me acknowledging the inspiration, then I don’t have time to explain more. Thanks for the criticism, but I don’t need any compliments.” His words were a firm declaration that he had no intention of backing down.
The rapper’s unapologetic stance continued when he responded to another critic, Azealia Banks, who had also criticized him for allegedly declining in both his music and image. Nas X retorted with sharp words: “I will never be able to make a hit again, and you’ll never achieve even one-tenth of my success in your miserable, chicken-selling, self-loathing life. By the way, I do love your music.” While this post was later deleted, it’s clear that Lil Nas X is resolute in defending himself against any form of criticism.
