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Lola Young Claps Back at ‘Nepo Baby’ and ‘Industry Plant’ Claims After BRIT Awards Performance

BBG News

On Capital Buzz’s airwaves on Wednesday, Lola Young spoke about the claims that she’s been labeled as either a “nepotism kid” or a planted figure within the industry.

From South London, this gifted singer has been reigning the UK’s music charts, particularly with her hit song “Messy.” She also made record-breaking history by being the youngest British female artist to achieve a solo number-one single since Dua Lipa in 2017.

She also performed at the BRIT Awards last month and was nominated in the Best Pop Act category.

Although she recently achieved success, certain fans have tagged the singer as a ‘relative-in-fame’ following the revelation that her aunt is Julia Donaldson, the well-known author of the cherished children’s book “The Gruffalo.

People have also criticized Lola, labeling her as a ‘manufactured celebrity,’ which refers to individuals who appear to naturally grow in popularity, yet are actually nurtured and promoted by a record label.

Capital host Sam Pearce brought up a common discussion point: whenever an artist gains significant fame, the term ‘industry plant’ is used casually, often without knowledge of one’s past work. Given you’ve been active since 2019, what are your thoughts on this label?

Responding to those who speak nonsense, Lola retorted: “No, they aren’t informed about it; otherwise, they wouldn’t be saying such things. To me, it’s simply a very foolish phrase.

I believe some people work in industries, but just because they do, it doesn’t diminish their talents or abilities in any way.

They’re labeling me as a ‘nepotism baby’ because my great aunt wrote ‘The Gruffalo.’ Frankly, that seems absurd to me.

She went on to say: “There’s so much I want to discuss, but unfortunately, I can’t. However, let me make this clear – I am not a product of nepotism, nor am I an industry insider placed here for show.

Here’s a more constructive and polite way of expressing the sentiment:

“I’ve addressed any concerns raised by those who chose to leave unproductive comments online. Perhaps it would be beneficial for everyone involved if we focus our energy on more meaningful pursuits instead.

An ‘industry plant,’ in simpler terms, refers to individuals, especially those unfamiliar with their path in life, who may feel envious or overshadowed when they see others experiencing success.

As a die-hard enthusiast, I must admit that if you’re part of the industry and not genuinely contributing, your time in the limelight will be brief, regrettably so.

Occasionally, it might happen, but let me assure you, it’s all rather insignificant. What truly matters is one’s innate ability; if a person possesses talent, then that talent is undeniable.

She then clarified: ‘Yeah, and I’m also not an industry plant at all by the way.’

Sam said: “People seem to think that since you attended the BRIT School, it’s always producing stars. But in reality, it doesn’t do so automatically or in large numbers.

Lola stated, “They aren’t special and it’s just an ordinary school. Compared to my previous tough school, I had to audition to attend.

In February, Lola shocked fans after they discovered she has a famous family member. 

For quite some time, the artist has been active within the music sector. However, a significant boost in her career occurred lately as a result of her sensational song “Messy.” This tune dominated the music charts and swept through TikTok, becoming incredibly popular.

Her rise to fame has sparked curiosity, with many eager to learn more about her journey.

Lola began writing songs at just 11 years old and won a national open mic competition by 13.

She perfected her artistry at the distinguished Brit School located in Croydon, a place renowned for nurturing talents such as Adele and Amy Winehouse.

Fans may also recognise her voice from the 2021 John Lewis Christmas advert, The Unexpected Guest.

More recently, she achieved a significant milestone by becoming the youngest British female singer to top the charts with a solo single since Dua Lipa’s “New Rules” in 2017.

As a devoted admirer, I’m thrilled to share that my journey of triumph is unfolding, marked by sold-out tours in the UK and US, an eagerly awaited debut at Coachella, and a nomination for Best Pop Act at the 2024 BRIT Awards. The excitement is palpable!

Now signed to Island Records, Lola is backed by some of the biggest names in the music industry.

Last year, I unveiled my first album, “My Mind Wanders and Sometimes Leaves Completely,” which was a significant milestone for me. More recently, I’ve shared another project, titled “This Wasn’t Meant For You Anyway.” These works reflect my journey and growth as an artist.

I can’t contain my excitement as I uncover a fascinating familial link between Lola and Julia Donaldson – it turns out, Julia is Lola’s aunt! What a revelation for this ardent fan like myself!

76-year-old Julia serves as the acclaimed writer responsible for the cherished children’s book, The Gruffalo, along with numerous other top-selling works.

This woman hails from Scotland and initially gained prominence in the late 90s. Later, she was appointed as the Children’s Laureate from 2011 to 2013.

Prior to becoming a successful author, she composed songs for kids’ television shows, demonstrating her knack for storytelling through melodies.

Now based in West Sussex, Julia was awarded an MBE in 2011 for her contributions to literature.

After discovering the family connection, fans took to X, formerly Twitter to share their thoughts.

It seems this woman has suddenly emerged in the past few months, so I did a quick search. Her aunt wrote ‘The Gruffalo’, and she attended the BRIT school. Laugh out loud. Nothing much has changed, I suppose.

Speaking of the Gruffalo, if your relative happened to pen this beloved character, then you’re financially secure for life. The Gruffalo is universally recognized.

If Lola Young unexpectedly made a splash in the literary scene with a bestseller, it might raise eyebrows given that her aunt is a renowned author. However, let’s consider the circumstances – after all, the Gruffalo isn’t exactly assisting her TikTok popularity!

‘I’m not convinced that Lola Young being related to Julia Donaldson significantly increases her status as a ‘nepo baby’, considering anyone who grows up with opportunities in the arts and achieves success can be considered one. This point seems to overshadow the real issue: The Gruffalo was genuinely scary for me as a child.’

I’ve only become acquainted with Lola’s music for the past two years due to her efforts in promoting it. Remarkably, TikTok’s algorithm has been exceptionally effective in helping her find an audience that appreciates her music. Regardless of whether her aunt wrote a book in Britain, it doesn’t seem to matter much to her success.

Earlier, Lola expressed that growing up with an artistic family gave her the confidence that pursuing a career in music was attainable.

She shared that her upbringing, filled with creativity, fostered the self-assurance within her to chase her personal dreams as an artist.

She shared with The Telegraph that growing up in a family deeply rooted in art made a significant difference for her. They recognized that making a living through music was not just a hobby but a genuine career path.

‘I never had a plan B,’ she added.

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2025-03-19 18:04

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