She is making the change.
Lizzo has apologised and revealed that she will be releasing a new version of her new song Grrrls with a change in lyrics after facing backlash over an ableist slur used in the first verse.
The singer said she “never” intended to promote “derogatory language” and has said that she is “dedicated to being part of the change I’ve been waiting to see in the world”.
This comes after UK disability charity Scope asked for her to keep disabled people out of her “self-acceptance” message in this way and asked for the lyrics to be changed.
Grrls was released on June 10 and since then Lizzo has been criticised for using a derogatory term for those with the condition spastic cerebral palsy within the first 20 seconds.
Taking to social, Lizzo acknowledged that “as an influential artist” she needs to take the criticism into account, and the change in lyrics was a result of “listening and taking action”.
— FOLLOW @YITTY (@lizzo) June 13, 2022
“It’s been brought to my attention that there is a harmful word in my new song Grrrls,” she wrote on Twitter.
“Let me make one thing clear: I never want to promote derogatory language.
“As a fat black woman in America, I’ve had many hurtful words used against me so I overstand the power words can have (whether intentionally or in my case, unintentionally).
“I’m proud to say there’s a new version of Grrrls with a lyric change. This is the result of me listening and taking action.
“As an influential artist I’m dedicated to being part of the change I’ve been waiting to see in the world. Xoxo, Lizzo.”
Ahead of her apology, Scope also took to social media, along with other disabled creators, to give their take on the issue.
They wrote: “Dear @Lizzo, your songs spread the message of self-acceptance.
“Please don’t leave disabled people out by using slurs in your lyrics. Self-love should be for everyone. We know you can do better.”
