The American pop artist explains that the altered lyrics are “the product of my listening and acting.”
Lizzo, a pop singer, says she is releasing a new version of her song GRRRLS due to objections over the original’s language.
The song was released on 10 June but was criticized for its usage of a disparaging term for the most common form of cerebral palsy, spastic cerebral palsy.
The American musician wrote on social media, “It has been brought to my attention that my new song “GRRRLS” contains a hazardous word.
“Let me be clear on one point: I never intend to promote the offensive language.
“As a large black woman in America, I’ve been the target of many nasty words, so I understand the impact words can have” (whether intentionally or in my case, unintentionally).
“I am pleased to announce that there is a new version of GRRRLS with altered lyrics.
“This is the outcome of my listening and acting.
As a prominent artist, I am committed to contributing to the change I’ve longed to see in the world. Xoxo, Lizzo.”
Scope, a disability organization, was among those who criticized the original song, tweeting: “Your songs propagate the idea of self-acceptance.
Please do not exclude people with disabilities by using slurs in your songs.
“Everyone should practice self-love.
We know you are capable of doing better.
Hannah Diviney, who has cerebral palsy, was similarly dissatisfied with the song’s original lyrics.
On Twitter, she stated that the use of “an ableist slur” left her feeling “very angry and sad,” adding, “It’s 2022. Do better.”
She wrote: “I’m going to cry after hearing that the song had been rewritten.
Thank you very much for listening to us, Lizzo, for comprehending that this was only ever intended kindly, and for being receptive to new information.
It means the world to me.
You are a trustworthy ally.
