On June 27, 2025, Grammy Award-winning artist Lizzo made a bold return to her roots with the release of her rap mixtape, My Face Still Hurts From Smiling. After captivating audiences with her vibrant pop sound, Lizzo now shifts gears to embrace her first musical love: rap. This project embodies the spirit of her 14-year-old self and pays homage to the artists who have inspired her, including Lil Wayne and Missy Elliott.
During a recent interview with Billboard, Lizzo expressed excitement about the mixtape, noting how different her creative process felt compared to her usual extended studio sessions. “I did everything in a week and I just approved the master like 20 minutes ago,” she shared, highlighting the spontaneity of this project. She humorously referred to herself as “Lizzo Wayne,” drawing parallels to the prolific output of Lil Wayne during his mixtape era.
The 13-track mixtape features a mix of swaggering bars and playful energy, reminiscent of her early days with the Houston hip-hop group Cornrow Clique. Lizzo emphasized the fun and off-the-cuff nature of her early rap experiences, bringing that same energy into her new work. Collaborations with fellow artists like SZA and Doja Cat further showcase her versatility and ability to blend different styles.
As she delves into her rap persona, Lizzo reflects on the freedom to express herself without editing her words. “I’m like, ‘Man. The first thing that comes out my mouth, I’m gonna say it. I’m not gonna edit myself,'” she explained. This unfiltered approach allows her to explore themes of empowerment and sisterhood, especially in the current golden era of female rappers.
Lizzo’s admiration for Missy Elliott shines through, as she acknowledges Elliott’s influence on her music and visual style. The mixtape serves as a celebration of female unity, with Lizzo expressing pride in the growing representation of women in hip-hop. “It feels really, really good. I’m constantly inspired and in awe of all of the women doing their thing,” she said.
With this mixtape, Lizzo not only reconnects with her rap roots but also sets the stage for her upcoming album, Love in Real Life. She plans to incorporate the lessons learned from this project into her future work, emphasizing the importance of trusting her vision and instincts.
As Lizzo continues to make waves in the music industry, her mixtape My Face Still Hurts From Smiling stands as a testament to her growth as an artist and her unwavering commitment to self-expression.
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