Lizzo Says Britney Spears Channels Janet Jackson: Fans React

Chloe Fitzgerald

4 min read

Post on May 04, 2025

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Lizzo's Statement and its Context

Lizzo's assertion wasn't made lightly; it emerged during a recent interview on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on October 26, 2023. She specifically highlighted Britney Spears' captivating stage presence and powerful dance moves in her most recent residency shows. While exact quotes are difficult to pinpoint without a transcript, the essence of Lizzo's comment was a clear comparison between the energy and style of Spears' performance and that of Jackson's iconic career.

• Specific examples of Janet Jackson's influence cited by Lizzo: Lizzo pointed to the sharp, precise choreography, the confident command of the stage, and the powerful blend of sensuality and strength that echoed Jackson's signature style in Spears’ recent performances. The controlled fierceness and undeniable charisma were highlighted as key similarities.
• The platform where Lizzo made her statement: The statement was made during a live interview on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.
• The date and time of the statement: October 26th, 2023, during the broadcast of The Tonight Show.

Fan Reactions on Social Media

The internet erupted following Lizzo's statement. Social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram became battlegrounds of opinions, showcasing the diverse perspectives of fans.

• Examples of positive fan reactions supporting Lizzo’s assessment: Many fans agreed, citing specific instances of Britney's performances that strongly resembled Janet's signature style. Tweets like, "#Lizzo is right! Britney's latest show totally channeled Janet's energy," were prevalent.
• Examples of negative fan reactions disagreeing with Lizzo: Other fans vehemently disagreed, arguing that Britney has her own unique style and that comparing her to Janet was unfair or reductive. Comments such as, "Britney is Britney! She's unique and shouldn't be compared to anyone," were frequently seen.
• Examples of neutral or nuanced fan reactions offering alternative interpretations: Some fans offered more nuanced perspectives, suggesting that while there might be some stylistic overlaps, it wasn't a direct channeling but rather a shared influence within the broader landscape of pop music.
• Mention the overall sentiment and the volume of engagement on social media: The sheer volume of engagement was substantial, demonstrating the immense popularity and continued influence of all three artists. The overall sentiment was highly polarized, with strong opinions expressed on both sides of the debate.

Comparing the Iconic Styles of Britney, Janet, and Lizzo

Comparing the styles of these three pop icons reveals both unique elements and intriguing parallels.

• Key stylistic elements of Janet Jackson's career: Janet Jackson is known for her powerful vocals, intricate choreography, and a constantly evolving style that seamlessly blended rhythm and blues, pop, and dance. Her stage presence was both commanding and seductive.
• Key stylistic elements of Britney Spears' career: Britney Spears, the "Princess of Pop," is celebrated for her energetic performances, infectious pop anthems, and a playful yet powerful stage persona. Her dance-pop style has influenced countless artists.
• Key stylistic elements of Lizzo's career: Lizzo is known for her soulful vocals, body-positive message, and a unique blend of R&B, pop, and hip-hop influences. Her charismatic performances are filled with infectious energy and empowering lyrics.
• Analyze similarities and differences between the three artists' styles to support or refute Lizzo’s statement: While each artist boasts a unique style, the power, precision, and confidence in their performances, as well as the blend of pop and R&B influences, present potential overlaps that could lend credence to Lizzo's assessment.

The Enduring Legacy of Janet Jackson's Influence

Janet Jackson's impact on music and pop culture is undeniable. Her influence continues to resonate with artists across generations.

• Examples of artists directly influenced by Janet Jackson: From Beyoncé to Rihanna, countless artists acknowledge Janet's impact on their music and performance styles. Her innovative choreography and sophisticated stage production remain benchmarks.
• Discussion of her groundbreaking performances and musical innovations: Janet pushed boundaries with her music videos, live performances, and willingness to tackle socially relevant themes in her work.
• Her cultural impact beyond music: Janet Jackson's influence extended beyond music, shaping fashion trends and influencing conversations about race, gender, and sexuality.

Conclusion

Lizzo's observation that Britney Spears' recent performances channeled Janet Jackson sparked a lively debate among fans. While opinions vary, the discussion highlights the enduring influence of Janet Jackson on subsequent generations of pop artists. The unique styles of Britney, Janet, and Lizzo, while distinct, share common threads that make the comparison intriguing. The legacy of these iconic performers remains powerful and continues to shape the landscape of modern music.

Call to Action: What are your thoughts? Do you agree with Lizzo's assessment that Britney Spears channels Janet Jackson? Share your opinion on social media using #LizzoBritneyJanetDebate and join the conversation! Let's continue the discussion on the lasting impact of these pop icons and how their styles intertwine.