NPR

Eskimeaux Changes Name To Ó Following Criticism From Inuk Singer Tanya Tagaq

"I have no interest in upsetting people before they even get to the point of interfacing with my art," Gabrielle Smith says.
Gabrielle Smith is the songwriter behind Ó — the band formerly known as Eskimeaux.

Brooklyn-based songwriter Gabrielle Smith has decided to change the name of her band, Eskimeaux, following criticism from Canadian Inuk throat singer Tanya Tagaq. The band will now be known as Ó.

In a series of tweets last week, Tagaq expressed frustration at the use of the derivation of "eskimo" as Smith's band's name. "If you want to use the word Eskimo. Tagaq also tweeted directly at the band several times.

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR3 min read
After Years Of Documenting Jewish Food Traditions, Joan Nathan Focuses On Her Family's
Joan Nathan has spent her life exploring in the kitchen, but for the Passover Seder, she sticks with a menu that follows her own family's traditions.
NPR2 min readCrime & Violence
Justice Department Pays $138 Million Over FBI Failures In Larry Nassar Case
The DOJ settlement goes to 139 victims of Larry Nassar, the disgraced team doctor of USA Gymnastics who sexually assaulted elite and Olympic gymnasts, after the FBI failed to promptly investigate.
NPR2 min read
Gaza Solidarity Protests Sweep U.S. Colleges; SCOTUS Tackles Starbucks Union Case
Tensions are high as campus protests over the war in Gaza stretch across the U.S. The Supreme Court will hear a case about pro-union Starbucks employees.

Related