tone deaf
Estonia’s Tommy Cash slammed for ‘offensive’ lyrics in Eurovision song after calls for him to be disqualified
Find out what Tommy had to say about the response
ESTONIA’S Tommy Cash sparked uproar this evening as he once again performed his track Espresso Macchiato.
The song has been branded offensive by viewers as it references a number of Italian stereotypes and expressions - including ones about coffee, the Mafia and smoking.
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Those watching at the Eurovision song contest at home were not impressed and took to X to complain about it.
One person commented: “I’m with the Italians . That was downright offensive from Estonia.”
Another wrote: “Arguably one of the most offensive things if your are Italian but brilliant by #Estonia espresso Machiatto!!”
While a third added: “Estonia song could definitely be described as racist and I'm not even Italian.”
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In the song he croons: "Ciao bella, I'm Tomaso, addicted to tobacco. Mi like mi coffee very importante."
He continues: "Mi money numeroso, I work around the clocko. That's why I'm sweating like a mafioso."
Earlier in the week the vice president of the Italian Senate, Gian Marco Centinaio, expressed upset about the song and questioned if they should be allowed to perform.
He raged: "We cannot allow a song that reinforces negative stereotypes about our country to compete in such a major international event.
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“He [Tommy Cash] should come to Italy and see how decent people really work before daring to write such a stupid and stereotypical song.”
Tommy has been more optimistic about the reception and after rehearsals this week, he said: “Everyone coming to me is like ‘I’m from Italy, you’re a legend there and we’re so happy to have your song,’”
He commented that if Sabrina Carpenter was allowed to sing espresso then so could he.
“She should be singing about Big Gulps,” he said.
“The thing is, coffee is for the world. Everyone can drink coffee. Americans, Europeans, and this brings us together.”
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