Singer Lizzo opens up about her toughest years in the spotlight
By William Muthama and The New York Times, May 26, 2026Grammy award-winning singer Lizzo has opened up about what she describes as some of her toughest years in the spotlight, reflecting on fame, criticism, and the pressure that comes with global success during a candid interview on The New York Times music and culture show “Popcast.”
In the interview, Lizzo discussed how her rise from an independent underground artiste to a global pop star demanded constant work and visibility, with little room for pause.
She said the demands of the industry often leave “no moment unaccounted for,” even as her music career expanded rapidly.
Reflecting on her early career, she said: “When I became a pop star, I applied that same kind of work ethic because I know this looks cute, but my god, they put you through it.” She added that there is “no moment unaccounted for” in a pop star’s schedule, showing how intense the lifestyle can be behind the scenes.
Lizzo also addressed the backlash that followed her recent legal controversies, including lawsuits filed by former dancers in 2023.
While she has denied the allegations and parts of the cases have been dismissed or remain ongoing, she acknowledged that the attention affected how she is viewed publicly and reshaped parts of her experience as a performer.
On the pressure of public expectations, she said, “I think pop stars have built a sort of protection for themselves, and they put the pop star character in the front. And then the real them gets to sit in the back. I never did that because I came from the indie world.”
Despite the turbulence, she described her approach to music as intentional, saying she has focused on creating what she calls “useful music”, songs meant to uplift and support listeners.
She reflected on how her early work already carried themes of self-love and positivity, which later became central to her identity as an artist.
Lizzo also spoke about advice from Missy Elliott, saying: “If you’re waiting to be in those conversations, don’t wait, because you are your own conversation, you’re in your own lane.”
The interview comes as she prepares to release her upcoming album, which she says draws from both personal reflection and her experiences navigating fame, criticism and resilience in the spotlight.