Lizzo previews new rap single in a ski mask and thong bikini

Lizzo’s Daring New Era

In a bold shift, Lizzo electrified fans with a social media preview of her new rap single, donning a black ski mask. Popularly called a “Pooh Shiesty” mask, and a purple-and-black thong bikini. Known for chart-toppers like “Truth Hurts,” the Grammy-winning artist is taking her music to new heights with this hard-hitting Lizzo new rap single, marking a bold music genre shift from her pop and R&B roots.

While fans celebrate her return, some question the provocative ski mask and bikini look, sparking debate on X. This article dives into Lizzo’s social media preview, her rap reinvention, fan sentiments, and artists like Beyoncé changing lanes, delivering a fan-focused narrative for 2025.

Lizzo’s Career: From Flute to Fame

Born in Detroit and raised in Houston, Lizzo moved to Minneapolis post-college, releasing Lizzobangers (2013) and Big Grrrl Small World (2015) independently, per Wikipedia. Her 2019 album Cuz I Love You, featuring “Truth Hurts” and “Juice,” peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard 200, earning eight Grammy nominations, per Britannica. Special (2022), led by “About Damn Time,” won Record of the Year at the 2023 Grammys, per GRAMMY.com.

A classically trained flutist, Lizzo’s performances with Sasha Flute, like at the 2019 BET Awards, earned Rihanna’s applause, per Wikipedia. Beyond music, she voiced UglyDolls (2019), starred in Hustlers (2019), and hosted Lizzo’s Watch Out for the Big Grrrls, winning an Emmy, per Wikipedia. Her music genre shift in 2025 reflects her early rap roots, inspired by Lauryn Hill and Missy Elliott, per Wikipedia.

Lizzo New Rap Single: A Return to Hip-Hop Roots

Lizzo’s new rap single, teased on line showcases her lyrical prowess, with rapid-fire bars over a trap-inspired beat. The social media preview, captioned “Back to my roots,” highlights her Minneapolis hip-hop beginnings, where she honed her rap skills with groups like Cornrow Clique and Grrrl Prty. Unlike her pop anthems like “About Damn Time,” this Lizzo new rap single leans into gritty, unapologetic energy, reminiscent of her 2013 debut Lizzobangers, which earned critical acclaim for its raw production.

Fans on social media noted her flow echoes influences like Missy Elliott. With one user saying, “Lizzo’s rapping like she’s 14 again—fire!” The single, potentially titled “No Mask,” is expected to drop June 20, 2025, per X posts. Further aligning with her upcoming album Love in Real Life. In addition to following singles “Love in Real Life” and “Still Bad.” Per Forbes. Lizzo’s music genre shift signals a fearless return to her rap origins.

Ski Mask and Bikini: A Provocative Statement

In the Instagram social media preview, Lizzo rocks a black ski mask and a purple-and-black thong bikini, dancing poolside with toy potted plants, per People. The ski mask, dubbed a “Pooh Shiesty” mask after the rapper, adds a rebellious edge, while the bikini showcases her confidence post-weight loss, having lowered her body mass index by 10.5.

The ski mask and bikini combo drew mixed reactions. Some fans on X praised her boldness: “Lizzo’s ski mask and bikini vibe is iconic!” Others criticized the provocative look, with one X user posting, “Why the mask? Feels like a gimmick.” Lizzo, no stranger to controversy after her 2019 Lakers game outfit sparked debate. Further, expresses how confident she has always been. Her ski mask and bikini choice amplifies her unapologetic persona. Further, aligning with her music genre shift.

Lizzo’s Rap Teaser Sparks Viral Frenzy and Fierce Debate

Lizzo’s bold preview has already racked up over 1 million views. Additionally creating a viral storm of hype, hot takes, and high expectations. Dressed in bold but eye catching attire, she delivered sharp bars that immediately drew comparisons to her earlier hip-hop-leaning track “Love in Real Life,” released in February of this year.. Fans on social media and Reddit’s r/popheads were quick to applaud the shift. With one commenting, “She’s rapping harder than ever—when does Sasha Flute get a verse?”

But the bold aesthetic also stirred controversy. On X (formerly Twitter), some users took issue with the ski mask. Ultimately, comparing it to trap visuals popularized by Pooh Shiesty. Critics accused Lizzo of aesthetic appropriation, while defenders argued she was clearly paying homage to hip-hop’s visual language. One viral reply said, “Y’all mad, but she’s giving rap what it needs—confidence and chaos.”

Lizzo’s public image remains complex, especially after a string of lawsuits in 2023 from former dancers alleging harassment. Still, her return to social media and creative control shows undeniable resilience. With her official single dropping June 20, fans are watching closely to see whether Lizzo’s rap era will silence the critics—and redefine her career.

Music Artists Changing Lanes

Lizzo’s pivot to rap joins artists embracing new genres. Beyoncé ventured into country with Cowboy Carter (2024), featuring “16 Carriages” and “Texas Hold ’Em,” the latter topping the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. Critics praised her exploration of Black country roots, though some country fans resisted. Post Malone shifted to country with F-1 Trillion (2024), collaborating with Morgan Wallen on “I Had Some Help.”

Taylor Swift leaned into folk-pop with Folklore (2020), earning Album of the Year at the Grammys. Drake explored dancehall with Views (2016), including “One Dance.” SZA blended alternative rock in SOS (2022). Like Lizzo’s music genre shift, these artists redefine boundaries, though Beyoncé’s country move faced radio pushback. Their lane changes inspire fans to embrace versatility.

A New Lane For Lizzo

Lizzo’a new music sets the stage for Love in Real Life, slated for summer 2025. Her ski mask and bikini look may fuel more visuals, with X users speculating a music video featuring Sasha Flute. Despite legal battles, with some claims dismissed in 2024. Lizzo’s social media preview reaffirms her focus on music. A potential tour and Yitty swimwear expansion could follow. Her music genre shift positions her as a hip-hop force in 2025 and beyond.

Lizzo’s Rap Era Begins with a Mask, a Bikini, and a Message

Lizzo’s rap teaser—delivered in a ski mask and bikini—marks more than a viral moment; it signals a full-blown reinvention. Previewing a new single on Instagram, she shed the pop polish for raw hip-hop energy, spitting aggressive bars that caught even longtime fans off guard. The ski mask, reminiscent of rapper Pooh Shiesty’s signature look, sparked both praise and debate across social media.

Her shift mirrors the bold genre pivots of icons like Beyoncé, who tapped into country with Cowboy Carter. Lizzo’s unapologetic entrance into rap territory shows she’s not just exploring new sounds—she’s reclaiming her roots. With only a short preview, she’s already set timelines on fire, with fans calling her “unhinged in the best way” and others asking, “Is Lizzo coming for the rap girls next?”

Whether she’s embraced as a serious rap contender or not, one thing is clear: in 2025, Lizzo isn’t following trends—she’s making them.