Gwen Stefani baffles fans after insisting ‘I’m Japanese’ amid cultural appropriation row

express.co.uk:

Gwen added she was a "super fan" of Japanese culture, adding: "(It) should be okay to be inspired by other cultures because if we're not allowed then that's dividing people, right?"Social media users have been criticising Gwen, saying she has been "getting away with this nonsense for far too long" and how it was "disappointing" she had chosen to "double-down" on her stance.But others supported the singer, claiming the criticism is "going to stop musicians from exploring different inspirations from other cultures".Gwen who is married to country star Blake Shelton, was previously criticised for how she used Japanese culture around the promotion of her 2004 debut solo album, Love.

Angel. Music. Baby.It was during this period she was backed by Japanese-American dancers called the Harajuku Girls.Elsewhere, the star was on a rollercoaster of emotions over the festive period delivering both uplifting and heartbreaking news.The No Doubt singer took to Instagram to share her sadness after news of Vivienne Westwood's death was announced.Gwen shared a photo alongside the iconic designer and wrote: "My heart hurts to hear of the passing of legendary @viviennewestwood who always made an impact in not just fashion but pop culture."I'll never forget wearing my first piece of designer clothing and it being a piece from Vivienne Westwood.