Ari Lennox recently spoke out against Rod Wave for not defending her amidst what she described as “evil,” “racist,” and “demonic” treatment during his 2023 Nostalgia Tour. Lennox’s comments came after she showed support for fellow rapper Flo Milli, who experienced mistreatment while performing on Gunna’s Bittersweet Tour in Columbus, Ohio.
Expressing empathy for Flo Milli’s ordeal, Lennox recalled her own traumatic experience on Rod Wave’s tour, where she was targeted by audience members, including being hit with a bottle. Despite this, Lennox lamented Rod Wave’s silence, both privately and publicly, on the matter. She revealed her sense of abandonment, particularly in the face of rejection, and emphasized the importance of artists standing up for each other.
Reflecting on her past tours with Dreamville, where she felt protected and valued, Lennox contrasted the negative experience on Rod Wave’s tour. She condemned the excuses made for mistreating opening acts and urged headliners to prioritize the safety and respect of their supporting artists, especially Black women.
Lennox had previously opened up about the emotional toll of the tour, describing it as lonely and burdensome. She highlighted instances of audience hostility and expressed frustration with the lack of support from the crowd. Despite her efforts to connect with the audience, she faced rejection and aggression, culminating in incidents like having her wardrobe stolen.
Rod Wave has yet to respond publicly to Lennox’s criticisms, leaving the conversation open-ended. Lennox’s candid remarks shed light on the challenges faced by artists on tour and the need for solidarity within the music industry.