Charli xcx Says Her Struggles Not Feeling ‘Accepted’ as Mixed Race Woman and Musician Allowed Her to Make “Brat”

Charli XCX Reflects on Struggles as a Mixed-Race Woman in the Music Industry

In a recent interview with Swedish rapper Yung Lean for Dazed magazine’s Winter 2025 issue, pop sensation Charli XCX opened up about the challenges she faced as a mixed-race woman and musician. Born to a Scottish father, Jon, and an Indian mother, Shameera, Charli shared her experience of growing up feeling like an outsider in England.

The 33-year-old singer revealed that she often struggled to find acceptance, whether it was at school for not fitting the typical blonde stereotype or within her own mixed heritage. She described feeling a sense of displacement, unable to fully identify with either of her cultural backgrounds. These feelings of not belonging ultimately influenced her music, particularly her record-breaking album, Brat.

Charli confessed, “I never felt accepted where I went, whether that was in school for being half-Indian and not blonde, or not fully relating to my Indian self because I was half-white.” She explained how this internal conflict and desire to both be part of the mainstream music scene while also rejecting it, inspired her to create Brat, a deeply personal and introspective project.

Growing up with parents from different racial backgrounds presented its own set of challenges for Charli. She recalled feeling like she led “two half-lives,” experiencing the richness of her Indian heritage during visits to her mother’s family, and then returning to a predominantly white environment at home. This dichotomy left her feeling like she didn’t quite fit into either world, a sentiment shared by many mixed-race individuals.

Despite facing feelings of rejection and alienation, Charli found solace and self-expression through music. She reflected on her school days, admitting that being mixed-race made her feel like a ‘loser’ among her peers. However, it was her passion for music that allowed her to carve out her own identity and feel truly understood.

One of Charli’s most poignant tracks, “Apple,” from her Brat album, delves into her complex relationship with her parents. The song struck a chord with listeners and went viral on TikTok for its raw and emotive lyrics. Through her music, Charli bravely explores her family dynamics and the challenges of navigating her dual cultural identity.

Following the success of Brat, Charli admitted to feeling uninspired by music and turned to other creative outlets for inspiration. She delved into acting and is set to appear in several upcoming films, showcasing her versatility as an artist. Despite her musical hiatus, Charli remains dedicated to her craft and continues to push boundaries in the entertainment industry.

As Charli XCX continues to break barriers and share her unique perspective with the world, her story serves as a poignant reminder of the power of resilience and self-acceptance. Through her music and artistry, she challenges societal norms and embraces her mixed-race identity with unapologetic candour.