Note: we are republishing this story which originally made the news in October 2022.

Lizzo on Her Music and Identity

Lizzo, the Grammy-winning artist, is opening up about her journey to success and the complexities of her fanbase. Though her rise to fame has been marked by an increasingly diverse following, Lizzo remains true to her roots.

Music Beyond Race

In a candid interview with Vanity Fair for its November cover, Lizzo shared her perspective on music and identity. She explained that she doesn’t create songs for a specific racial audience. Her music, she said, is an honest expression of her Black experience, a way of healing from life’s challenges.

Rooted in R&B, Hip-Hop, and Gospel

Though Lizzo’s musical roots are firmly grounded in R&B, hip-hop, and gospel, she has made her mark in the pop genre. Hits like “Juice,” “Good As Hell,” and “About Damn Time” helped her connect with a broad audience, including many white fans. However, Lizzo emphasized that her primary audience is Black women.

Empowering Black Women

Lizzo believes her music speaks to Black women who, like herself, have faced underappreciation and societal pressures. She passionately shared, “We need self-love and self-love anthems more than anybody.” For Lizzo, music is a form of self-expression and empowerment, especially for those who have struggled with similar challenges.

Addressing Her Critics

Lizzo expressed confusion over critics questioning her commitment to creating music from a Black perspective. For her, being a Black artist means incorporating that identity into everything she does. It’s not a choice—it’s inherent to her.

Advocating for Change

Lizzo also reflected on her recent controversy involving a 200-year-old crystal flute once owned by James Madison. She pointed out that there is still much work to be done for Black women in America. Lizzo expressed feelings of hopelessness, stating that throughout history, Black women have not been treated with respect. However, she believes progress is possible when privileged individuals take responsibility.

Social Activism

Lizzo’s activism is equally strong. Following the overturn of Roe v. Wade, she donated $500,000 to Planned Parenthood and the National Network of Abortion Funds. Her tour promoter, Live Nation, matched the donation. Lizzo highlighted the role of race in the decision, criticizing white male supremacy and the complicity of various groups, including white women.

Lizzo’s journey is about more than music. It’s about race, identity, and social change. Through her unapologetic stance, she continues to champion self-love and empowerment, becoming a powerful voice in today’s evolving cultural landscape.