Over a number of tweets Arthur did his best to explain his behaviour: “I just have to say I’m extremely disappointed in myself for being so naive with the track I made for an unknown rapper recently.
“I would just like to make it completely clear that it was not meant in anyway as a reference to homosexuality.
“I realise where the term has come from in meaning..but used in the context of the rap battles I have grown up with it has come to mean something completely different.. That said, I understand why it could cause offence and that definitely wasn’t my intention…”
He went on: “Some of the things said in this rap can be mistaken for homophobic slurs and I assure you homophobia is something I do not believe in. I have many many gay friends. In rap feuds/rap disses the words I used have a different intent. This is a straight man I was attacking. A straight man who littered his track with severe homophobic slurs towards me.. Like I said though it was a rap diss ..
“And in no way a reflection of my true character.. I’ve heard I’ve offended Matt Lucas who’s work I have always admired and that is a blow. ”
He responded to Matt Lucas – who said “f**k you” over the incident – Arthur tweeted: “I am so sorry i offended you sir. I will be removing this song from the internet shortly. Im a huge admire of your career.”
Lucas then replied: “Thanks, James. I look forward to your new stuff. Respect to you for responding and taking it down. Let’s move on.”
