Lizzo changed one of the lyrics in her new single “GRRRLS” after facing criticism for using an “ableist slur.”
The “Good as Hell” artist tweeted a statement on Monday saying, “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.”
“As a fat Black woman in America, I’ve had many hurtful words used against me so I understand the power words can have (whether intentionally or in my case, unintentionally),” she continued. “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.”
— FOLLOW @YITTY (@lizzo) June 13, 2022
The lyrics of the song that angered some listeners were: “Hold my bag, bi-ch/ Hold my bag/ Do you see this shit? I’ma spaz.”
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Some social media users said the word “sp-z” was ableist language. Ableism is discrimination and social prejudice against people with disabilities and characterizes those with disabilities as being inferior to those who are non-disabled.
One social media user wrote on Twitter Saturday, “Hey @lizzo my disability Cerebral Palsy is literally classified as Spastic Diplegia (where spasticity refers to unending painful tightness in my legs) your new song makes me pretty angry + sad. ‘Sp-z’ doesn’t mean freaked out or crazy. It’s an ableist slur. It’s 2022. Do better.”
The new version says: “Hold my bag, bi-ch, Hold my bag/ Do you see this shit? Hold me back.”
Lizzo’s full album “Special” will drop on July 15. “GRRRLS” is the second single off her sophomore CD.
Listen to the new version of the song below.
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