Singer Who Wore ‘MAGA’ Grammys Dress Speaks Out: 'I Am 100 Percent a Trump Supporter'
Awards shows this season have proved to be rife with political statements. And the 59th Annual Grammy Awards is no exception.
Artist Joy Villa made the first statement of the night on Sunday with an epic outfit reveal on the red carpet. Let’s just say it had some major patriotic vibes.
Stepping out in a white cloak, the singer — a self-described feminist — posed for cameras holding a heart-shaped purse. Moments later, she whipped off the garment to reveal a flashy red, white, and blue gown emblazoned with the phrase “Make America Great Again” down the front.
The figure-hugging, bejeweled gown also featured star detailing and “TRUMP” in huge letters on the skirt.
She posted a sneak peek of her clutch earlier in the day, writing a sweet message encouraging self-love and acceptance.
A photo posted by Joy Villa (@joyvilla) on Feb 12, 2017 at 12:40pm PST
“My whole artistic platform is about LOVE!” she wrote. “I couldn’t be where I am today without the love and tenderness of those beautiful supporters and friends around me. Thank you. I hope you enjoy tonight’s @grammysawards2017 and remember to forget your problems and focus on your future! You are infinite and beautiful and no one can stop you but you. So go out and celebrate yourself as a winner no matter what, together with those you adore!”
While Villa doesn’t often post on her social channels about politics, she did post a message encouraging unity among Americans shortly after the election.
A photo posted by Joy Villa (@joyvilla) on Nov 11, 2016 at 12:26am PST
Within minutes of debuting the look, the artist already started to receive backlash on social media for the gown. “Great to know you support a racist! #CareerDelete” user Mika Quick commented. “Seriously with that dress? You should be ashamed of yourself,” user jlm2050 added. “The worst way to get attention! It will backfire on you. Your one chance to make a name for yourself and you [chose] to wear the ugliest dress ever!” user silverstarr99 wrote on a photo on Villa’s page.
However, not everyone disliked the look. “Your dress! I LOVE IT! It’s such a powerful message & we must not hate anyone. Let’s make LOVE stronger!” user a.kat9498 commented.
After the awards show, Villa posted an image of her big outfit reveal and thanked those who had left her positive comments regarding the look.
A photo posted by Joy Villa (@joyvilla) on Feb 12, 2017 at 5:27pm PST
“Sometimes you just gotta be free to express yourself,” she captioned the image. “Thank you to all of my supporters and fellow believers. Life is about living free and loving it. Be your beautiful selves tonight!”
Despite the mixed social media feedback, the style statement seems to have paid off for her. The singer’s EP I Make the Static is now the top digital paid album on Amazon and is currently No. 11 on iTunes. Villa spoke to Fox News to share more details on her political beliefs.
“I am 100 percent a Trump supporter,” she said. “I believe in his message, I believe he will run this country like he runs his life, successfully. I stand as a proud American and I stand for a unified America that is tolerant of each other no matter who we voted for. I stand behind our president because that’s the American thing to do. I believe in love, above all.”
In an Instagram post, she advised her followers not to listen to haters.
A photo posted by Joy Villa (@joyvilla) on Feb 12, 2017 at 11:49pm PST
“Go big, or go home,” she captioned an image from the night. “You can either stand for what you believe or fall for what you don’t. Above all make a choice for tolerance and love. Agree to disagree. See the person over the politics, carry yourself with dignity, always. Life is made to be lived, so go boldly and give no effs!”
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