In her most recent single “Truth Hurts”, experimental hip-hop singer-rapper Lizzo acknowledges that there’s a more earthly side to balance the goddess of female empowerment that she often embodies: ‘Yeah, I got boy problems, that’s the human in me’. This certainly does not mean that her characteristic sass and charisma is being muted. There is a tinge of regret and bitterness about a lover who deserts her to return to his ex (‘You coulda had a bad bitch, non-committal’), but it’s that flamboyant and unflappable confidence that shines through once again: ‘I will never, ever, ever, ever, ever be your side chick/ I put the ‘sing’ in single/ Ain’t worried about a ring on my finger’.
The revelations that she has moved on (‘New man on the Minnesota Vikings/ Truth hurts, needed something more exciting’) seem somewhat premature, but Lizzo nevertheless convinces by weaving in some fun and humor with her acrobatic vocals. The song’s handclaps, piano loop, and backing vocals let her gloat, boast and affirm herself to the fullest, making it easy to forget the heartbreak that colored her opening verses.
In the accompanying music video, she leaves her groom at the altar (Lizzo certainly seems fond of having her love interests being shirtless and unmistakably athletic) to marry herself. The post-wedding party continues in full force, with no one hesitating to join in on the celebration.
