Lizzo and the year of self-love anthems
The flute-playing, genre-mixing star broke through with infectious anthems of confidence and joy.
Lizzo completed a triumphant breakthrough this year, as the exuberant singer, rapper and classically trained flautist broke through to mainstream superstardom on the strength of infectious anthems of self-love, confidence and joy that struck a powerful chord with audiences.
Though she had been building a career for years, Lizzo's moment arrived when an older song of hers went viral and propelled her to the top of the charts, introducing a wider audience to her blend of pop, soul, hip-hop and gospel, delivered with irrepressible energy and personality.
Her music, celebrating body positivity, self-acceptance and empowerment, resonated widely, and her dynamic live performances — often featuring her flute, nicknamed by fans — made her one of the most talked-about and beloved performers of the year.
Lizzo's rise was notable not only for its music but for what she represented: a confident, joyful artist who challenged narrow conventions of pop stardom and championed self-love in a culture often defined by insecurity. Her message of radiating confidence regardless of others' judgements connected with listeners seeking exactly that affirmation.
The year culminated in a slew of Grammy nominations, cementing her status as one of music's breakout stars. Lizzo's ascent was a feel-good story in a fractured time, the triumph of an artist who had worked for years before her moment arrived, and who brought a spirit of unabashed celebration and self-acceptance to the top of the charts.