Lizzo is being unusually candid about her recent back-and-forth with Nicki Minaj, and she says the internet’s appetite for conflict played a role in how she promoted her new album, *B*TCH*.
During an appearance on *Drink Champs* with N.O.R.E. and DJ EFN, the singer explained that she recently used a Nicki Minaj tweet aimed at her to help promote the project and an alternate version of the title track. The move got attention quickly, especially because the alternate version included lyrics many listeners interpreted as shots at Nicki, including lines such as “Used to be the biggest fan, then I lost weight” and “Crazy thing is, if you knew me, you would like me.”
Lizzo framed the decision as a reflection of how online culture works right now. “We as women, we collab with each other. But I’ll say another thing: Fighting sells,” she said. “It’s true. Beef sells more than anything these days.”
She went on to argue that positive messaging often receives a colder reception online than conflict does. “When I put out positive music and when I talk about loving everybody, I get roasted,” she said. “They look at me like, ‘Not now, Lizzo. Don’t hit us with that positivity stuff.’ I’ve literally read them say, ‘We don’t want that empowering stuff right now.’”
The conversation also touched on Nicki Minaj’s long run at the top of female rap. Lizzo acknowledged Nicki’s dominance during the years when major award shows offered limited representation for women in rap. She said she can’t imagine what it’s like to have been “so unquestionably and rightfully dominant” and then see a new wave of competition emerge.
At the same time, Lizzo drew a distinction between public criticism and personal grievance. She said Nicki has not done anything to her personally that would make her dislike her. “I truly don’t know her. I know of her,” she said, explaining that their connection never went beyond interactions from a period when she was a fan.
Lizzo did, however, say she takes issue with how Nicki Minaj has been moving publicly and with comments involving Lizzo and people close to her. Still, she repeatedly emphasized that she respects Minaj’s talent and status as a rapper.
