Lizzo shares statement after backlash over ‘harmful’ ableist slur in new song ‘Grrrls’

Sign up to Roisin O’Connor’s free weekly newsletter Now Hear This for the inside track on all things music Get our Now Hear This email for free Get our Now Hear This email for free SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Lizzo has re-released her new track “Grrrls” with a lyric change following online backlash over her use of an ableist slur. Late on Monday night in the US, Lizzo addressed the criticism over the song’s lyrics, writing that she “overstands the power words can have” and that she never wants to promote derogatory language. Enjoy unlimited access to 100 million ad-free songs and podcasts with Amazon Music Sign up now for a 4 month free trial Sign up Enjoy unlimited access to 100 million ad-free songs and podcasts with Amazon Music Sign up now for a 4 month free trial Sign up Following the song’s initial release last week, Lizzo’s fans and disability activists had condemned the lyric, with some calling on the musician to censor the offensive line. “I’m disappointed in Lizzo for using the word ‘sp**’ in her new song ‘Grrrls’,” wrote advocate Callum Stephen.