In a candid conversation with Vanity Fair, Lizzo made it clear that her music is not tailored to a white audience. Instead, the 34-year-old singer-songwriter draws inspiration from her own black experience, blending genres like hip hop, gospel, and R&B to create anthems that resonate with her community.
Lizzo’s chart-topping hits like “Good as Hell” and “About Damn Time” have achieved widespread success, but she acknowledges the complexities that come with it.
She expressed concerns that her music, originally intended for a black audience, has become popular among whites, sparking important conversations about black artistry.
“This is the biggest criticism I’ve faced,” Lizzo said. “When black people see a predominantly white crowd at my shows, they might think, ‘This isn’t for me; it’s for them.'” She recognizes that as black artists gain popularity, their audience often shifts demographically.
However, Lizzo remains unapologetic about her artistic vision. “I am not making music for white people,” she emphasized. “I am a black woman, creating music from my black experience.” Her statement serves as a powerful declaration of artistic ownership and authenticity.
As a savvy businesswoman and talented musician, Lizzo understands the nuances of the music industry. She acknowledges the tension between creative expression and commercial appeal, but remains committed to staying true to her roots.
Lizzo’s unwavering dedication to her art and community has sparked essential discussions about representation, identity, and cultural ownership in the music industry. Her music continues to inspire and empower, serving as a testament to the power of unapologetic black artistry.
