Lizzo struggles to reconnect with her groove in spirited review
Lizzo’s career has taken quite a turn recently. Just over a year ago, she made a grand announcement on Saturday Night Live about her new album titled Love in Real Life. Donning a Trump-baiting T-shirt and wielding an electric guitar, she performed songs from the album, amidst a backdrop of controversy that erupted at the end of her 2023 world tour. Lawsuits alleging harassment and discrimination were filed against her by former backing dancers and a costume designer, tarnishing her reputation and the message of inclusivity and self-confidence in her music.
However, Lizzo’s attempt to make a comeback with a new album was met with disappointment. The lead single from Love in Real Life failed to make a mark on the charts, prompting her to pull the album altogether and go back to the drawing board. Taking matters into her own hands, Lizzo released a mixtape titled My Face Hurts from Smiling, which received mixed reviews and lackluster streaming numbers, signaling a pivotal moment in her career.
Fast forward to the present, Lizzo’s fifth album, Bitch, reflects a sense of uncertainty in her musical direction. The album showcases a mix of genres and styles, from Tame Impala-inspired tracks to new-wave rock influences, but lacks a cohesive sound. Despite attempting to cover a broad range of themes and musical elements, the album falls short of making a lasting impact.
The subdued tone of Bitch is evident throughout the album, with songs like “Don’t Make Me Love U” and “Too Nice” failing to resonate with listeners. While tracks such as “Whose Hair Is This” and “That Grrrl” show glimpses of Lizzo’s musical prowess, there is a noticeable absence of a definitive pop smash that she was once known for.
The changing landscape of the music industry and shifting cultural trends have posed a challenge for Lizzo, making it difficult for her to find her place in the current era. The era of body positivity that Lizzo once epitomized has given way to new trends and influences, leaving her struggling to adapt and connect with audiences in a meaningful way.
As Lizzo navigates this uncertain terrain, one thing remains clear – she is doing her best to stay true to herself and her artistry. While Bitch may not be a chart-topping success, it serves as a reflection of Lizzo’s journey and the challenges she faces in an ever-evolving industry. As she sings on the poignant ballad “A Toast,” Lizzo is striving to find her place in a world that is constantly changing, and her resilience and determination shine through in every note.