Rina Sawayama Offers Insights on Sabrina Carpenter’s Japan-Inspired SNL Set

## Rina Sawayama’s Thoughts on Sabrina Carpenter’s SNL Performance

Rina Sawayama recently voiced her opinions about Sabrina Carpenter’s appearance on *Saturday Night Live*. After watching Carpenter perform “Nobody’s Son,” Sawayama took to Instagram to express her concerns regarding the cultural references used in the performance. Notably, she pointed out a karate studio theme that featured tatami mats, which she believed lacked proper cultural respect.

“Big love to Sabrina, but fellow artists and creative teams… if we are clearly referencing a culture, please do so with the research, respect, and care it deserves,” Sawayama stated, emphasizing her Japanese-British heritage. She also remarked, “Shoes on tatami is jail,” highlighting the inappropriateness of the choice.

## The Impact of Pop Music on Sawayama’s Life

Sawayama has openly discussed how pop music helped her connect with peers after her family moved from Japan to London. “If you’re new to that school, it can really connect you to the rest of the students,” she shared in 2022. Icons like Britney Spears, Gwen Stefani, and Lady Gaga have shaped her artistic vision, and she still finds excitement in songs from that era.

### Gwen Stefani’s Cultural Influence

Gwen Stefani has a history of incorporating Japanese imagery into her work, often walking a fine line between appreciation and appropriation. In a 2023 interview with *Allure*, she remarked, “My God, I’m Japanese, and I didn’t know it… If [people are] going to criticize me for being a fan of something beautiful and sharing that, then I just think that doesn’t feel right.” She reflected on her creative relationship with both Harajuku and American cultures.

Returning to Carpenter, Sawayama simply suggests that the next time, footwear like Louboutins and Adidas should stay off the mats.

Is it important for artists to conduct thorough cultural research before utilizing specific cultural elements in their performances?