The article discusses rising pop star JoJo Siwa and her recent comments about wanting to create a “gay pop” genre. In a Billboard interview, Siwa mentioned her desire to reinvent the genre and cited artists like Lady Gaga and Miley Cyrus as inspirations. However, her comments received backlash from the LGBTQ+ community, including Tegan and Sara, who subtly criticized her in a TikTok video.
Siwa, who is known for her young fanbase and colorful persona, has been transitioning into a more adult image and embracing her queer identity through her music. However, her claims of creating a new genre were seen as disrespectful to the work of LGBTQ+ pioneers who have been involved in the industry for decades. Some critics suggested that Siwa should acknowledge the contributions of those who came before her rather than claiming to invent something new.
Despite the initial backlash, Siwa later clarified her remarks in a TMZ video, acknowledging that gay pop is an existing genre and expressing her desire to contribute to its growth. The article also highlights other queer pop artists who have successfully carved out their own niche in the industry, such as Vincint, Adam Lambert, and Janelle Monáe. These artists have embraced their identities and used their platforms to bring attention to LGBTQ+ issues.
As Siwa continues to rebrand herself and pursue her music career, she has faced criticism and praise for her recent music video “Karma.” The video features Siwa in edgier looks and choreography, leading to mixed reactions from fans and viewers on social media. Some have praised her performance, while others have critiqued certain aspects of the video, such as a cartwheel and a beach scene showing Siwa dancing with a male dancer.
Overall, the article suggests that Siwa’s comments about creating a new genre may have been a rookie mistake, typical of her young age and evolving career. The writer encourages Siwa to learn from the feedback and grow as an artist, while also recognizing the importance of acknowledging LGBTQ+ artists who have paved the way in the music industry. Subscribe to The Culture Catchall newsletter to stay updated on the latest entertainment news and trends.
