Azealia Banks Comments On Lizzo’s Statement Regarding Her Quitting Music: “Self-Deprecation Was Certainly The Aesthetic You Chose To Introduce Yourself With”

Azealia Banks has expressed criticism towards Lizzo’s recent statement about considering leaving the music industry due to the negative attention her appearance has attracted.

On Friday, Lizzo took her fans by surprise when she announced on Instagram her intention to step back from the limelight. She attributed her decision to the relentless criticism and judgment she faces over her looks, stating she was “tired of getting dragged by everyone” and being judged “because of how I look.”

Reacting to this, Banks pointed out that Lizzo’s initial approach to fame involved a certain level of self-deprecation, hinting that her actions, such as posing nude in a Skittles bath, might have inadvertently invited public mockery.

While many celebrities have shown their support for Lizzo, Banks suggested a different course of action. She urged Lizzo to “change the narrative” and to move away from portraying herself as a victim, stressing the importance of refocusing on her music.

Banks commented on Instagram, “I retracted my criticism of you because it dawned on me that I hadn’t fully grasped how insidious corporate forces were positioning you in demeaning ways. But sis… your handle is ‘lizzo be eating.’ You’ve openly invited the public to laugh both at and with you by actions like twerking at a Burger King counter and bathing in Skittles… Self-deprecation was the aesthetic you chose upon your introduction. So, rather than playing the victim, why not cease intentionally inviting people to joke about that? You’re a talented individual, with a strong understanding of music theory, Grammy awards, and significant success. Just shift the narrative and aim for a more sophisticated image, perhaps even collaborate with artists like Ryuichi Sakamoto.”

The controversy surrounding Lizzo has been further fueled by criticism of President Joe Biden for featuring her performance at his $25 million Radio City fundraiser. This event occurred shortly after a lawyer representing Lizzo’s three former dancers, who had previously filed a lawsuit against her for sexual harassment, labeled the decision as “shameful.”

Last August, Lizzo was legally challenged by three former dancers—Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams, and Noelle Rodriguez—who accused her of sexual harassment and creating a hostile work environment.