I have known Sean Combs for many years. I have vivid memories of our encounters that still haunt me to this day. As a woman in the music industry, I have experienced the undeniable sexism perpetuated by individuals like Sean Combs and others.
Reflecting back on the past, I recall a particular incident with Sean Combs in July 1997. At that time, I was appointed as the editor in chief of Vibe, a music magazine that celebrated Black music and culture. The industry was mourning the losses of Tupac Shakur and the Notorious B.I.G., and we were determined to keep hip-hop alive and give it the recognition it deserved.
Sean Combs, also known as Puffy or Puff Daddy, was a central figure in the hip-hop scene. His record label, Bad Boy Records, was thriving, thanks to artists like Biggie and Mase. I decided to feature Combs on the cover of Vibe’s December 1997/January 1998 double issue, envisioning him wearing white feathered wings reminiscent of the poster for the film “Heaven Can Wait.”
The cover line for the article was “The Good, the Bad and the Puffy,” a nod to Combs’ persona. I hoped to capture a mischievous yet angelic image of him for the cover. The concept was to have two versions of the cover—one with heavenly symbolism and another with a hint of darkness. The potential cover line was “Bad Boy, Bad Boy, Whatcha Gonna Do?”
Despite my intentions, my interactions with Sean Combs were not always as glamorous as they seemed. The professional dynamic between us was intense and competitive. I believed I had the upper hand, but I soon realized that I was mistaken. There were moments that made me fear for my safety, and the experience left a lasting impact on me.
As I reminisce about those days, I am reminded of the challenges faced by women in the music industry and the need to confront sexism and misogyny. My encounters with Sean Combs serve as a stark reminder of the power dynamics at play and the importance of speaking out against injustice.
In a world where influential figures like Sean Combs wield authority and influence, it is crucial to hold them accountable for their actions and ensure that women are treated with respect and dignity in all professional settings. The music industry must strive to create a more inclusive and equitable environment for everyone involved, free from discrimination and harassment.
