Farrakhan said he criticized Rihanna out of love

(Barbados Nation) It was out of love that he criticized Barbadian superstar Rihanna last year, Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan said yesterday as he also expressed concern about the “sexual revolution” taking place among the youth.

He insisted that his reference to the singer’s Grammy Awards performance as “filthy” was not meant as a personal attack but to encourage her “to think about the greatness of her appeal”.

The outspoken religious leader sought to clear the air about his February 27, 2011, comments when questioned at a news conference held after he arrived yesterday in Barbados as part of a Caribbean tour.

“I love Rihanna . . . I look at Rihanna like I look at my grandchildren. She is a beautiful girl with a wonderful voice and a great talent,” said Farrakhan, who will turn 80 next May.