Lizzo's New Album: A Tired Grudge-Airer?

Lizzo's new album, 'Bitch,' has been met with criticism, with reviewers describing it as tired and dry. The artist's characteristic biting energy is noted as having curdled, and the album's interpolations of older pop hits are seen as a potentially cynical grab for listeners. This release follows a period of up and down fortunes for the artist.

In late 2024, Lizzo mentioned learning "healthy boundaries" after two lawsuits were filed against her for harassment and other claims by former backup dancers and a stylist. Lizzo has vehemently denied all accusations and is contesting them in court. Her single 'Love in Real Life' was released a few months later.

While 'Bitch' contains standout tracks like 'Sexy Ladies' and the mystical 'Little Black Cat,' other songs fall flat. The title track, interpolating Meredith Brooks' 1997 hit, and 'Don't Make Me Love U,' which blends ABBA and Tina Turner, are seen as less successful callbacks. The album concludes with tracks like 'That GRRRL' and 'Too Nice,' where Lizzo addresses her antagonists. The closing track, 'Goodmorning,' offers a sunnier outlook.