Let’s give it up for Lizzo who is speaking out after her chart-topping single About Damn Time made an unexpected appearance at a Washington D.C. event linked to Donald Trump. The event, which took place on Saturday, June 14, featured a military-style theme and a lineup that included DJ Nyla, Symone Lee, Greenwood, Scotty Hastings, Noah Hicks, and Warren Zeiders. Somewhere in the mix, a performer broke into a version of Lizzo’s Grammy-winning hit, and the singer was not having it.
The outspoken Grammy winner hit the Gram to share her displeasure. She posted a video showing herself looking completely unamused, paired with footage from the actual performance. Her caption was short and sharp “cease & desist.” While it is unclear if Lizzo is planning legal action or just making a strong statement, one thing is certain: she is not okay with her music being used in a political space that doesn’t align with her values.
Get this, Lizzo has been clear about her views in the past. She has openly criticized the Trump administration and has consistently spoken up about racial justice and equity in America. “I want real change and I know what it takes to see real change on a systemic level” she previously said. “This system was built by white people to their economic benefit… White people have to come together & educate themselves… Unify.”
For Lizzo, the issue is bigger than just a song being played without her permission. It touches on the core of her message as an artist and activist. She has used her voice to push for inclusion, equality, and truth. Seeing her music repurposed at an event associated with a political movement, she has publicly challenged and crossed a line.