Lizzo’s ‘Bitch’ Album Struggles as Industry Shifts and Legal Issues Impact Her Momentum
Lizzo’s latest album, *Bitch*, sold just 2,649 copies in its debut week and generated 2.7 million on-demand streams, according to music data company Luminate. This marked a steep decline from her 2022 album *Special*, which debuted with 39,000 copies sold and 69,000 equivalent album units, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard 200. The underperformance has sparked debate about the singer’s evolving career trajectory and the challenges facing artists in a shifting music landscape.
Why Lizzo’s ‘Bitch’ Album Underperformed
The album’s poor sales and streaming numbers have led industry insiders to question Lizzo’s long-term viability. A former senior label executive, speaking to *Rolling Stone*, suggested that Lizzo “never had a core fanbase” and relied heavily on radio hits. “She was a very song-driven, radio-hits-driven artist who lacked a core fanbase, and that’s what you need today for career longevity,” the source said. Lizzo herself acknowledged the industry’s shift, stating on X (formerly Twitter): “The industry changed so much in the last 3 yrs. streaming replaced radio & I was a radio darling.”
Comparing *Bitch* to *Special*, which featured hits like “About Damn Time” and “Juice,” the contrast is stark. *Special* earned 69,000 equivalent album units in its first week, while *Bitch* failed to chart entirely. Industry analyst Ray Daniels criticized the focus on streaming as a scapegoat, arguing that artists should engage fans directly. “If you know the industry is changing, you should be warning your fans ahead of time. Why are you not telling your fans to request your song on radio?” Daniels said.
The Role of Streaming and Industry Shifts
The music industry’s transition from radio to streaming has disrupted traditional promotion models. Labels once invested heavily in radio exposure, but today’s budgets prioritize social media campaigns. A veteran industry executive told *Rolling Stone* that major labels are “phone[ing] it in” for artists without established fanbases. “They’re gonna give her the rollout that feels like they’re spending something, but it’s super lackluster,” the source said.
Lizzo’s 2023 legal troubles with former backup dancers further complicated her situation. The dancers alleged sexual harassment, a hostile work environment, and fat-shaming in a lawsuit that remains unresolved. Lizzo has refused to settle, stating on *CBS Mornings*: “I’m not afraid of the truth.” This public backlash may have eroded her fanbase, with one executive noting, “When you’re called to task for the mistreatment of exactly what you held out as being your brand, then fans don’t wanna see you win anymore.”
What’s Next for Lizzo?
Despite the setbacks, some industry observers remain cautiously optimistic. “I think there’s always hope for every artist. A hit cures all,” said a veteran executive. However, the path to a comeback remains uncertain. Lizzo has taken matters into her own hands, promoting *Bitch* on social media and distributing posters herself. “My label won’t hang posters, so I will do it myself,” she said in a video shared online.
The singer’s 2016 deal with Atlantic Records, now led by Elliot Grainge, son of Universal Music Group head Lucian Grainge, has also drawn scrutiny. While Lizzo’s early success with “Truth Hurts” was partly accidental, her recent struggles highlight the industry’s risk-averse approach. “If you fall off, you’re literally like nothing to your labels,” the executive added.
As the music landscape continues to evolve, Lizzo’s ability to adapt will determine her future. With her next single, “Sexy Ladies,” featuring producer Tay Keith, the singer may yet find a new audience. But for now, *Bitch* serves as a cautionary tale about the challenges of sustaining relevance in a rapidly changing industry.