Lizzo Blames Social Media Algorithms for Lack of ‘Song of the Summer’

Lizzo opened the floor to those questioning the state of the music industry in a recent TikTok.

On Friday (September 5), the four-time Grammy winner introduced herself as someone with “multiple number-one” hits and “Platinum plaques” that will soon have “Diamond” certifications. “The music industry is in complete shambles right now,” she continued. “And you can use that to your advantage.”

“Back in the day, the music industry was very algorithmic, as any other industry was. But that industry was controlled to a certain extent,” Lizzo explained. “Now that we are in the digital streaming age, there is no control over the algorithm.”

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The musician went on to say that this irregularity is “stressing people the f**ksout,” including herself. “Every major artist, besides Beyoncé, has dropped music this year, or is planning to drop music this year, or is featured on somebody’s record,” Lizzo said.

The “About Damn Time” artist added that she dropped a mixtape over the summer, My Face Hurts From Smiling, which features SZA and Doja Cat, although some fans were unfamiliar with the project.

“Every major artist from Lady Gaga to Drake has dropped albums this year, and yet everyone is saying there’s no song of the summer,” Lizzo continued. “I’m gonna be completely honest with you guys: It’s not because the music isn’t incredible, it’s because the way that the algorithm is set up, no one can serve the masses anymore.

“I started a private page just for my fans, Lizzo IRL, and it has been one of the most incredible experiences for me as an artist,” she said.

She continued by saying that newer artists have an advantage in connecting with their audiences at a “quicker rate” by interacting with listeners directly.

“I say all that to say that this year has been an incredible year for music. It just hasn’t been on your algorithm.”

In her caption, Lizzo called her track “Whim Whammy” the song of the summer, although it was debated in the comments.

“Jet2Holiday was the song of the summer thank you very much 😂 ,” one person joked.

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