Singer-songwriter James Blake wants people to stop stigmatizing men who share their feelings.
The 29-year-old British musician took to Twitter on Friday after reading reactions to his latest single, “Don't Miss Me.” He cited the use of “sad boy” to describe his music.
“I’ve always found that expression unhealthy and problematic when used to describe men just openly talking about their feelings,” Blake wrote. “To label it at all, when we don’t ever question women discussing the things they are struggling with, contributes to the ever disastrous historical stigmatization of men expressing themselves emotionally.”
Citing high rates of depression and suicide among males, Blake said “we don’t need any further proof that we have hurt men with our questioning of their need to be vulnerable and open.”
He added: “It is only ever a good thing to talk about what is on your mind.”
Of course, some people took issue with Blake’s comments.
“Where is this magical place where women don't get questioned about the things they're struggling with james blake,” tweeted one woman. “i would love to emigrate.”
Another reacted: “Really nasty stuff. Suicide attempt rates, anxiety & depression all higher for women, so while male suicide rate is a huge problem, this statement is untrue and unhelpful.”