Lizzo releases new version of 'GRRRLS' after backlash

Lizzo has released a reworked version of her track 'GRRRLS' after facing backlash across social media.

The 'About Damn Time' singer released the latest single from her upcoming album on Friday, June 10, and fans were quick to critique her use of a derogatory term for the condition spastic cerebral palsy.

Immediately Tiktok and Twitter users took to the web to condemn the singer, calling the lyric "an ableist slur", and asking the singer to "do better".

So disappointed to see @lizzo using an ableist slur in her latest song…

We don’t not need language like this normalised, especially when disabled people struggle to fight off so much stigma on a daily basis.

DO BETTER this was so unnecessary and is such a set back

— Ella Willis (@EllaEllaaW) June 11, 2022

After an outcry of disappointment from fans, Lizzo released a statement of apology followed by a reworked version of the track.

 

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In her apology she says, "It's been brought to my attention that there is a harmful word in my new song 'GRRRLS. Let me make one thing clear: I never want to promote derogatory language."

She continues - "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)."

The singer claims the lyric change is a result of her "listening and taking action".

Fans are overjoyed at the reworked version of this song, with twitter user @hannah_diviney saying: "Thank you so much for hearing us Lizzo and for understanding that this was only ever meant gently and being open to learning, it honestly means the world. You're a true ally."

@wheeliedeaf This is what happens when people listen to marginalised communities. Massive respect to @lizzo for listening to disabled people 🤟 #FYP #Lizzo ♬ original sound - lizzo

Lizzo's new album Special is due to drop on July 15.