Latin singer wrongly accused of using ‘blackface’ in Sleep Token performance

Latin artist Kali Uchis recently stirred up controversy with social media posts claiming that Sleep Token was using “blackface” and questioning the methods that led them to the number one spot on the Billboard Artist 100 chart.

Uchis celebrated her own accomplishment of reaching number four on the chart by covering Sleep Token’s number one spot with a heart graphic, omitting any mention or image of the band. Following this, she highlighted her own success with her album “Sincerity” debuting at number two, accompanied by a comment suggesting that she achieved her position without resorting to tactics like payola, big commercial singles, or gimmicks.

One aspect of this dispute revolves around Sleep Token’s band persona wearing masks, creating an enigmatic image that has intrigued fans. The band’s strategic use of social media to build anticipation for their music has also played a role in their rise to the top.

However, things took a turn when fans began commenting on Uchis’ posts, with one person criticizing her for censoring Sleep Token in her Instagram story and stating that the band was superior. Uchis responded by explaining that her decision was based on feeling uncomfortable with what she perceived as blackface in a photo of the band.

In a subsequent exchange, another commenter questioned Uchis’ focus on Sleep Token’s alleged blackface while overlooking country artist Morgan Wallen’s racist behavior. Uchis clarified that she was not familiar with either individual and had only reacted to the discomfort caused by the image she saw.

The since-deleted posts can be viewed on Reddit, where users have shared screenshots of the contentious social media interactions.

Sleep Token has been steadily gaining popularity in the rock and metal scenes, particularly with their album “Take Me Back to Eden,” which saw several songs climbing Spotify’s Top 50 Viral Songs Chart in 2023. The band’s latest release, “Even in Arcadia,” generated significant buzz through a series of teasers and singles, leading to a successful album launch in May 2025.

According to Billboard, “Even in Arcadia” secured the number one spot on the charts with impressive sales figures, marking it as one of the most successful rock albums in recent years. The album’s streaming numbers also broke records, solidifying Sleep Token’s status as a rising force in the music industry.

Looking ahead, Sleep Token has already outlined their touring plans for 2025, with performances scheduled at major festivals and a North American tour in the works. Fans eager to catch a live show can find ticketing information on the band’s website, where they can also access the new album, “Even in Arcadia.”

In conclusion, the clash between Kali Uchis and Sleep Token highlights the complexities of navigating social media controversies and the evolving landscape of music promotion and success. While tensions may arise, the ultimate focus remains on the music and the fans who continue to support their favorite artists.