Kai Cenat defends Jamaica tour amid cultural appropriation accusations
KINGSTON, Jamaica – Popular streaming sensation Kai Cenat had social media buzz during his recent tour of Jamaica. While many celebrated his island adventures – shared with millions of followers – others accused him of cultural appropriation.
In a recent video response circulating on social media, Cenat addressed these criticisms, asserting his genuine connection to Jamaican culture. Cenat defended his behaviour while in Jamaica, indicating that he was brought up around Jamaicans.
He also shared that he understands the Jamaican culture very well and was thrilled to have been experiencing it first-hand.
“N***as had the audacity to say that I was out there mocking Jamaica. A n**a that’s not from Jamaica gon’ make a tweet and everybody under it was agreeing and was saying what I was doing in Jamaica was not culture,” he said in the video. “For the people that don’t know me, you’re talking to the son of a mother who is from Trinidad and Tobago…my pops is Haitian…I had friends growing up that was strictly from Spanish Town, Kingston, Portmore. I was rushing home after school with my Jamaican friends to go play dominoes, Ludi (Ludo). Half of ya’ll don’t even know what Ludi is.”
The entertainer went on to share that before the fame, he would attend backyard Jamaican parties being held in the Bronx, New York because of his love for the culture.
“Every Jamaican backyard party there was, I enjoyed it and I was jacking it. You wanna know why? Because I f**k with Jamaica heavy bro. I’ve been waiting on going to Jamaica like that my whole life, no cap,” he shared.”
Since his response gained traction, some Jamaican social media users rallied in support, embracing Cenat as an “honourary citizen” and praising his positive energy during his visit.
“As a Jamaican, we the people accept you and love the energy and vibes that you brought to Jamaica. Nuh watch or listen to the people weh not even have a passport to travel let alone understand our culture. Kai, you did your big one a yaad and we salute you,” one user shared on Instagram.
“@kaicenat we full blood – both side parents Jamaicans – don’t have a problem! You love and appreciate our culture and that’s amazing,” another user commented.
During his stay, Cenat explored Kingston’s nightlife, indulging in local cuisine, and even joined the Carnival Road March on Sunday, concluding his eventful trip.