Lizzo's "Rumors" emerges as a resolute anthem, challenging the prevailing misconceptions and scrutinous gaze directed at her public persona. The lyrics assertively engage with the rumors and criticisms circulating in the media, as Lizzo fearlessly confronts the judgments and negativity that have permeated her public image. The introductory lines of the song establish a defiant tone, articulating her dedication to cultural significance while underscoring the difficulties associated with societal expectations.
The song critically explores the impact of social media, with Lizzo explicitly referencing the necessity to curate and filter her online presence, acknowledging the pervasive scrutiny she endures. The lyric "Say I'm turning big girls into hoes" directly confronts the prevailing body-shaming narrative, adeptly challenging stereotypes and reasserting autonomy over her narrative. The recurring exclamation, "oh, god, damn," resonates with the frustration and exasperation inherent in grappling with incessant gossip.
The chorus of "Rumors" transcends a mere musical refrain, transforming into a potent declaration of truth. Lizzo unabashedly addresses matters of sexuality, relationships, and the relentless scrutiny inherent in her public life. The bold defiance evident in lines such as "I fuck him and you, yeah" stands as an unapologetic proclamation against societal norms and judgment. Additionally, the reference to severing ties with certain individuals and the mention of non-disclosure agreements (NDA) underscores the measures taken to safeguard her personal life.
Progressing through the song, Lizzo articulates her personal journey of growth and resilience. References to being in the bamboo and focusing on her music allude to a steadfast commitment to her craft amidst personal challenges. The dismissal of unfounded claims, such as rumors regarding her relationship with Drake, is executed with a touch of humor, revealing a steadfast refusal to allow baseless gossip to undermine her resolve.
The inclusion of Cardi B in a verse further reinforces the overarching theme of resilience, with both artists sharing their experiences in overcoming adversity. Cardi's lines accentuate the unwarranted criticism faced by artists, addressing accusations of artificial success through streaming numbers. The mention of overseas blogs disseminating lies in an unreadable language emphasizes the global reach of rumors and their often baseless nature.
In the latter segment of the song, Lizzo embraces her identity, proudly proclaiming her roots as a Bronx native with a catalogue of pop hits. The lyrics trace a trajectory from an outsider status to establishing herself within the music industry. The celebration of body positivity, acknowledgment of Black contributions to rock 'n' roll, and expressions of admiration for dancers on poles collectively underscore Lizzo's commitment to self-empowerment and the empowerment of others.
In essence, "Rumors" by Lizzo stands as a bold assertion of self-empowerment and resilience against societal judgments. The song adeptly navigates the complexities of fame, social media, and personal growth while maintaining an unapologetic stance. Through its candid lyrics and energetic composition, the track serves as a testament to Lizzo's unwavering refusal to be confined by stereotypes or swayed by baseless rumors.
