Pharrell Responds to "G I R L" Cover Art Controversy, Calls Critics "Ill-Informed"

Earlier this week, Pharrell came under fire for the cover art of his new album G I R L, which features three women in white bathrobes standing next to the celebrated rapper/producer. Media outlets and individuals online voiced their displeasure with the notion that Pharrell, an African American artist, decided not to include a woman of color on his cover. Or at least that was story line they wanted to believe, which motivated their peanut gallery outrage.

Pharrell has responded to his critics, clarifying the woman standing closest to him on the cover is black. "They’re ill informed," he tells TheYBF. "The woman I’m standing closest to, she is black and she’s been a friend of mine for a long time. You know, I’m confused by it."

Pharrell goes on to explain his disappoint in people who are not able to understand the concept of his new album, which celebrates all women, regardless of the color of their skin. Read his full statement on the issue below.