Lizzo has recently made headlines with the surprise release of her new mixtape, MY FACE STILL HURTS FROM SMILING, marking a significant shift in her musical direction. This unexpected project comes after the shelving of her previously announced album, Love in Real Life.
In March 2025, Lizzo had announced that Love in Real Life was completed and set to mark her return with new music after a period of silence. However, she decided to set aside that project in favor of a rap-focused mixtape featuring collaborations with artists like Lil Jon, SZA, and Doja Cat. Lizzo explained to New York magazine that the change was personal, stating that the earlier album no longer reflected her evolution as an artist. She emphasized that due to changes in her life and the world since 2022, she chose to follow her instincts and create something more authentic to her current self. (los40.com)
The new mixtape, MY FACE STILL HURTS FROM SMILING, is a two-part collection filled with energy, humor, and irony. It comprises 22 tracks divided into two discs, blending rap with messages of self-love and empowerment. Notable collaborations include Lil Jon on “STFU,” Doja Cat on the satirical “STILL CANT FU,” and SZA on “IRL.” The mixtape reinforces Lizzo's message of self-determination, evident in tracks like “I LUV BEING MYSELF” and “YITTY ON YO TITTYS.” While there is no official announcement of a tour yet, fans are eagerly awaiting potential updates on her social media platforms. (los40.com)
This release follows a challenging period for Lizzo, who faced multiple lawsuits in 2023 alleging sexual harassment and creating a hostile work environment. She has denied these allegations, describing them as “false” and “unbelievable.” In March 2024, Lizzo expressed feelings of being overwhelmed by online criticism, leading her to declare she was “quitting” in an Instagram post. However, she later clarified that she meant quitting negative energy, not her music career. (bbc.com)
With the release of MY FACE STILL HURTS FROM SMILING, Lizzo demonstrates resilience and a commitment to her artistic journey, offering fans a fresh and authentic musical experience.