Iggy Azalea has pulled out of performing at this weekend's Pittsburgh Pride Parade event.

The rapper's inclusion on the bill had come fire by many because of some of the Australian's previous tweets.

They had been interpreted as homophobic and racist and whilst Azalea strongly believes in "equality", she felt performing at the gig would have "distracted" from meaning of the concert.

She said in a statement: "I am truly disappointed that I have to share this news, but I will no longer be performing at Pittsburgh Pride on June 13th. This has been a difficult decision as I truly support the event and LGBTIQA communities, however I feel my participation at this point would only serve to further distract from the true purpose of the event. I am a firm believer in equality.

"Unfortunately in the past as a young person, I used words I should not have. The last thing I want is for something so carelessly said to be interpreted as reflective of my character. I meant no harm and deeply regret ever uttering those words.

"As an adult I would never use them because I understand they play a detrimental role in the fight for issues that I do truly believe in. I am sorry to anyone I have offended or disappointed & I wish all my fans and friends participating in Pride the best of luck."

Some of Azalea's old - and now deleted - tweets included: "When guys whisper in each others ears I always think its kinda homo."

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Watch Iggy Azalea perform live below: