The roar of the crowd at the Rolling Loud festival in California is usually reserved for the industry's biggest titans, yet the most talked-about moment featured a 12-year-old girl.North West took to the stageto join Molly Santana's set, but her appearance at the event has since sparked a firestorm of debate on social media.
While the performance was intended to debut the pair's unreleased collaboration, it sparked debate about Kim Kardashian and Kanye West's parenting. Many questioned the exes about why they allowed their child to attend the event, turning the issue into a referendum on celebrity parenting and the ethics of child stardom.
The performance was met with online criticism that focused primarily on the parents rather than the child herself. One observer was particularly critical of the perceived lack of musical ability on display during the set.
'I think it's time to admit you cannot buy talent for your kids,' the critic wrote onX(formerly Twitter) while tagging Kim Kardashian.
The individual later clarified that they were not targeting the minor but were instead 'picking on Kim more' for allowing the appearance to happen. When other users suggested it was 'weird' to be critical of a teenager, X user @Playteaux1 maintained that the blame rested solely on the adults. They argued the issue was 'Not the child, the parents.'
Social media reactions ranged from genuine concern to mockery of the performance. Some users were cynical about the vocal delivery, while others on Instagram criticised North's performance. A number of users claimed she was lip-syncing or had used auto-tune, though these claims were not independently verified.
Despite the harsh words, many fans defended North, noting that she is simply a child. Others pushed back against critics, saying they should let North do what she wants because many artists start young.
I think it’s time to admit you cannot buy talent for your kids…@KimKardashianpic.twitter.com/fu0aX7MAiB
The debate quickly moved beyond the music to address the public image of the eldest West child. Many observers questioned why Kim Kardashian allowed North to dress, behave, and act in a manner that seemed older than her actual age. Critics questioned her parents' choices for placing her in adult-oriented environments, such as a major music festival.
'Rolling loud? Isn't this for adults? At least 18 and over??' one commented on Instagram. Another said, 'Performing where kids her age can't even attend should be the first red flag.'
Source: International Business Times UK
