With the backlash she’s facing from the Parents Television Council, Rihanna called in to BET’s “106 & Park” to further address the controversy surrounding her “Man Down” video. Taking a break from tour rehearsals in Baltimore, RiRi explained the video’s concept and why she chose to include a murder scene.
“I don’t like to just make videos. I love to make an experience and this is art with a message,” she told hosts Terrence and Rocsi. “Obviously [the character is] not a cold-blooded killer. It has to be something so offensive and we decided to hone in on a very serious matter that people are afraid to address.”
Her intention was to send a strong message for women who have been victimized. “Rape is happening all over the world and right in our own home and we continue to cover it up and pretend it doesn’t happen,” she explained. “I personally don’t condone violence or murder. I’ve been abused in the past and you don’t see me running around killing people in my spare time. I just want girls to be careful.”
Listen to the full interview below.