In a revealing interview with Vanity Fair for its November cover, the 34-year-old artist (born Melissa Viviane Jefferson) reflected on her career path and the deeper meaning behind her music. Despite her worldwide popularity, Lizzo made it clear: she doesn’t create music targeting a specific race. Her work is rooted in her authentic Black experience, serving as a form of personal healing.
Though Lizzo’s musical foundation lies in R&B, gospel, and hip-hop, her breakout into pop with hits like “Juice,” “Good As Hell,” and “About Damn Time” has drawn fans from all backgrounds — including many white listeners after her 2019 album Cuz I Luv You. Still, Lizzo emphasized that her core audience is Black women.
“We need self-love and self-affirmation more than anyone,” Lizzo stressed, explaining that her songs are meant to uplift Black women who, like her, have faced bullying, discrimination, and systemic pressure. She finds it frustrating when people question her connection to the Black community — an identity she says is woven into everything she does.
Discussing her recent controversy involving James Madison’s historic crystal flute, Lizzo shared her sadness about how little progress Black women have truly seen. She admitted to feelings of hopelessness, highlighting that Black women have long been undervalued and disrespected in America. However, Lizzo also sees hope — particularly when those in power begin to acknowledge and correct their privilege.
A fierce advocate for social justice, Lizzo recently donated $500,000 to Planned Parenthood and the National Network of Abortion Funds after Roe v. Wade was overturned — a donation matched by her tour promoter, Live Nation. She didn’t shy away from criticizing systemic racism and white male supremacy, calling out the structures that continue to oppress marginalized groups.
In the end, Lizzo’s story is bigger than just music. It’s about race, resilience, identity, and activism. Her fearless voice continues to break barriers, urging a broader cultural reckoning — all while reminding her fans, especially Black women, to love themselves unapologetically.
