Angolan-Portuguese rapper and singer IAMDDB has spoken out following the unauthorized use of her likeness in an AI-generated propaganda video shared by the Israeli government on social media. The video, which depicts an AI rendition of the artist performing a song titled “Jews From Judea (We Did),” has since been deleted. Various reports, including one from Rolling Stone, have confirmed the incident.
AI Video and Controversial Lyrics
The video that emerged on October 16 features an AI avatar that raps lines including: “Colonizers?/Say the name/Jews from Judea, it’s in the damn name.” The unsettling lyrics went on to address historical and contemporary tensions over land and identity, sparking outrage and concern regarding the implications of using a Black artist’s image for such messaging.
IAMDDB’s Response
IAMDDB expressed her dismay in a statement to Rolling Stone, highlighting a disturbing trend of exploitation faced by Black artists, particularly women. “The exploitation of Black artists, particularly Black women, is nothing new. From blackface to the appropriation of our identities and creativity, this raises serious concerns about how AI is enabling these same patterns in a new form,” she stated. The artist underscored the urgent need for regulation surrounding AI and protection of artists’ rights, saying, “Our image, voice and identity are our livelihood, and knowing they can be replicated without consent threatens our artistic freedom and ability to create safely.”
Community Reactions and the Story Behind the Video
The video drew the attention of broadcaster and activist Rafael Shimunov, who took to Instagram to critique the use of IAMDDB’s image for the purposes of affirming claims of indigenous identity in the context of contentious Israeli-Palestinian relations. He pointed out that the fabricated identity used in the video did not even belong to an Israeli artist, stating, “Even the person’s identity they stole wasn’t even Israeli.”
Further context was provided by freelance journalist Andrew Esensten, who spoke to the creator of the AI-generated song, Eyal Ben Moshe, also known as Eyal Be. Moshe explained that he was contacted by a member of the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs, not compensated, and that he encouraged others to use his work. He described his intent behind the videos as creative exploration rather than financial gain, asserting he was unaware of IAMDDB’s identity at the time of creation.
IAMDDB’s Statement on Humanity and Personal Values
On her Instagram, IAMDDB clarified that she had no role in the video and does not support violence against any group. She shared her thoughts on humanity and social justice, stating, “I do not support genocide, the killing of innocent people, or the suffering of women, children and families.” This statement underscored her solidarity with those who suffer, particularly the Palestinian people, amidst ongoing conflicts.
She also reflected on her past performances in Israel, expressing regret that her understanding has changed over time, saying, “had I understood then what I understand now, I would have made a different decision.” Her emphatic stand for creative ownership was made clear as she concluded, “My image is mine. My voice is mine. My values are mine. FREE PALESTINE.”
Future Actions
Looking ahead, IAMDDB plans to donate a portion of her upcoming show proceeds to charitable organizations that align with her values. “For me, it’s important to turn this experience into something meaningful and positive,” she stated, reaffirming her commitment to compassion and social responsibility.
