Live Music
Lizzo's Special Album Release Party Proved She's Ready 2 Be Legendary

I spent an unforgettable night in the Lizzoverse.

by Jonathan Borge
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Lizzo knows how to celebrate. To toast her fourth studio album, Special, the Grammy winner teamed up with AmEx to host a public light show in NYC on July 15 called the Lizzoverse. First, though, she performed her new record, belting one epic key change after the next.

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Before hitting the stage, Lizzo revved up the crowd with an endearing message projected onto the walls at Cipriani 25 Broadway. The message welcomed guests with "Hi b*itch" and "you're special." It also encouraged fans to "sit back, relax, and prepare for takeoff."

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Appearing in a hot pink sequin catsuit with complementary metallic pumps, Lizzo hit the stage with four dancers to perform each Special track as they appear on the album. "The Sign" was first, and her rendition was a sign for what turned out to be a special night. Puns intended.

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"About Damn Time" was the fan favorite of the night with fans singing along to the uplifting lyrics ("In a minute, I'ma need a sentimental, man or woman, to pump me up...”) that were popularized on TikTok. Yep, Lizzo even did the viral dance and all.

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Roughly three songs into her show, Lizzo said screw it and ripped her heels off, telling the crowd, "My feet was hurtin'!" She then performed "2 Be Loved (Am I Ready)” —which is one of the most vocally challenging songs on Special — "I Love You B*itch," and the title track.

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Just before singing "Birthday Girl," Lizzo (kindly) demanded tequila — Don Julio 1942, to be exact. She then took shots directly from the bottle and told fans, "I just wanna get lit!" Honestly, same.

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Before wrapping the party with the songs "Everybody's Gay," "If You Love Me," and "Coldplay," Lizzo poked fun at the audience during quieter moments. "Don't let me roast y'all for not being lit!" she said. Of course, fans immediately erupted in applause and laughter.

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