Lizzo says ‘I quit’ statement was not about music, just ‘negative energy’

Lizzo's 'I quit' statement came nearly two months after the singer's motion to dismiss an ongoing lawsuit accusing her of harassment was denied.

Last week, Lizzo said “I quit” — but only four days later, the Truth Hurts singer changed her tune and explained she would not be leaving the music industry.

On Tuesday, Lizzo, 35, posted a video to Instagram to “clarify” the meaning of her earlier statement.

“When I say I quit, I mean I quit giving any negative energy attention,” the four-time Grammy winner said. “What I’m not going to quit is the joy of my life, which is making music, which is connecting to people.”

Lizzo’s fans were surprised on March 29 when the singer, whose real name is Melissa Jefferson, posted a written statement to Instagram saying she was “tired of putting up with being dragged by everyone in my life and on the internet.”

Lizzo launched to international fame with the release of her 2019 album Cuz I Love You and has long since positioned herself as a champion for body positivity and equality. The singer’s brand took a major hit last year when several of her backup dancers filed a lawsuit alleging sexual harassment and creation of a hostile work environment.

“I’m constantly up against lies being told about me for clout & views… being the butt of the joke every single time because of how I look…my character being picked apart by people who don’t know me and disrespecting my name,” Lizzo initially wrote. “I didn’t sign up for this s—t — I quit.”

In Tuesday’s follow-up video, Lizzo said she made the statement because the “negative voice” surrounding her, as well as her work, often seems to be “louder” than the positive.

Wearing a blue swimsuit from her shapewear brand Yitty and matching blue eyeshadow, Lizzo said she hopes her “I quit” statement inspires at least one other person to also cut out negativity from their life.