Lizzo Hits Back at Critics, Says They’re Triggered by a Black Woman’s ‘Radical Joy’ in Music
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Grammy-winning artist Lizzo has responded vigorously to criticism of her latest single, “Still Bad,” attributing the negative feedback to discomfort with a Black woman producing “real music with radical joy.” The backlash comes just days after the song’s release, a track that highlights her resilience during tough times.
On X, formerly known as Twitter, Lizzo expressed her frustration with those who claim her brand of ‘poptimism’ is unfit for a ‘post-Covid world,’ countering that her 2022 hit “About Damn Time” was a post-lockdown anthem intended to inspire unity and outdoor gatherings, and had indeed succeeded, earning a Grammy for Record of the Year in 2023.
“I think seeing and hearing a black woman make real music with radical joy triggers miserable people,” Lizzo tweeted. She also evoked the legacy of music icons like Janet Jackson, Funkadelic, and Earth, Wind & Fire, stating, “nobody’s doing it like me for Us.”
In subsequent tweets, Lizzo highlighted the historical mistreatment of pioneering Black female musicians whose contributions were only acknowledged long after enduring harsh criticism. She referenced Janet Jackson, who faced severe backlash in her career, Whitney Houston, who was ridiculed for her personal struggles, and Tina Turner, whose abuse was publicly trivialized.
“The way this world treats black women is sickening…” Lizzo added, lamenting the longstanding lack of protection for Black women in America.
She concluded her series of tweets with a reflection on her personal challenges, including ongoing legal battles over allegations of a toxic work environment, which she strongly denies.
These allegations were made by a few of her former dancers in August 2023 and also involved her former stylist, Asha Daniels. Although Lizzo was dismissed from the lawsuit in December 2024, her company, Big Grrrl Big Touring Company Inc., remains implicated.
Lizzo views these trials as liberating rather than destructive, emphasizing that the true reality for her revolves around the love and support she receives from her family, friends, fans, and nature.
