Lizzo inadvertently incited an internet riot when she dubbed Janet Jackson the “Queen of Pop” instead of Madonna.
To commemorate Michael Jackson’s birthday on Aug. 29, the Detroit-born singer paid homage to the architect of the bestselling album of all time, Thriller. It was who Lizzo decided to list as MJ’s counterpart that caused a Twitter tizzy.
King of Pop- Michael Jackson
Queen of Pop- Janet JacksonPrince of pop- Bieber
Princess of Pop- Britney Spears
The Pop princess- RihannaQueen of music- Beyonce https://t.co/98Zq8ZOH25
— FOLLOW @YITTY (@lizzo) August 29, 2021
Meanwhile, MJ’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame sister, Janet Jackson, quietly posted this simple and touching remembrance of her legendary brother on what would have been his 62nd birthday.
Many fans invaded Lizzo’s Twitter space to let her know unequivocally who they think is the real musical queen.
Michael & Madonna: King and Queen of Pop ❤️ pic.twitter.com/trpLezVXUF
— Gяi 🤍 (@Knxowing) August 29, 2021
https://twitter.com/1996xblues/status/1432064886100594689
Lizzo felt the backlash as she posted this follow-up to her original tweet.
👀👀👀👀
Ruhroh pic.twitter.com/fenSjKjyqK
— FOLLOW @YITTY (@lizzo) August 29, 2021
Lizzo remained mostly unbothered, however, as she stuck to her choice to keep the Jackson siblings on the royal throne.
As for the rest of Lizzo’s list, she listed Britney Spears as the “Pop Princess,” Justin Bieber as the “Prince of Pop,” and Rihanna as “The Pop Princess.” Lizzo gave Beyoncé the distinguished title of the “Queen of Music.”
Lizzo handed out honorable mentions as well, listing Usher as the R&B King, Aretha Franklin as the Queen of Soul, Mariah Carey as the R&B Queen, Tina Turner for Rock and Roll and Mary J. Blige as the Queen of Hip-Hop/Soul.
