Underscores hits out at "misogynistic" Houston venue Meow Wolf

Look, I've got a friend who's been to Meow Wolf in Houston, and she's always raved about the immersive art and interactive exhibits. But for Underscores, the hyperpop satirist, it was a different story altogether. Hours before a gig at the venue, she took to her Instagram Stories to express her disappointment and frustration with the treatment she and her team received from Meow Wolf's upper management. Touring can be a grueling experience, but Underscores' experience in Houston was particularly trying.

Underscores, whose real name is April Harper Grey, was set to perform at Meow Wolf as part of her US tour in support of her third studio album 'U'. But it seems that the venue's inability to accommodate her normal level of production was just the tip of the iceberg. According to her Instagram post, the venue's staff was either rude, misogynistic to her team, or simply clueless. It's not just about the logistical challenges of touring; it's about the respect and professionalism that artists and their teams deserve.

As a culture writer, I've seen firsthand how the music industry can be a breeding ground for sexism and misogyny. Underscores' experience at Meow Wolf is just another example of the kind of treatment that many female artists face on a daily basis. It's not just about being "difficult to work with"; it's about being taken seriously, being respected, and being treated with dignity. The music industry has a long way to go in terms of addressing these issues, but it's conversations like this that bring attention to the problem and spark necessary change.

Meow Wolf has not commented on the situation, but it's clear that Underscores is not one to mince words. She's promised to return to Houston with full production next time, and I have no doubt that she will. But in the meantime, it's up to venues like Meow Wolf to take a hard look at their policies and practices and ask themselves: are we creating a safe and respectful environment for artists and their teams? The answer, in this case, seems to be a resounding no. As Underscores takes her talents to the UK and Europe later this year, I have no doubt that she'll continue to speak truth to power and inspire others to do the same.

Underscores is, and her music is a powerful reflection of the world we live in. With her sharp wit and unapologetic style, she's not afraid to tackle the tough issues and call out those who are trying to silence her. As she takes the stage in Dublin, Glasgow, Leeds, London, and Manchester in November, I have no doubt that she'll bring her signature energy and charisma to the performance. And who knows? Maybe Meow Wolf will take note and make some much-needed changes to their policies and practices.