Sabrina Carpenter Addresses Album Cover Backlash
Sabrina Carpenter recently unveiled a new album cover for her upcoming project, “God Approved,” after facing criticism over the initial artwork. Fans were taken aback, particularly by a post on Instagram that teased her album titled “Man’s Best Friend.” The original cover showed a man with fluffy hair, described as a “nonsense” singer, sitting on his lap.
The artwork provoked a wave of negative reactions, with users voicing their discomfort. One comment read, “Am I the only one who thinks this is inhuman for women?” Another user expressed unease, stating, “This cover makes me uncomfortable, especially in times like these. I’m absolutely deaf.”
Carly Simon Backs Carpenter
In response to the controversy, Carly Simon defended Carpenter’s cover, insisting it wasn’t “outrageous.” Carpenter acknowledged the criticism, pivoting quickly to reveal a new cover art option, which she called a “God-approved alternative” available on her website. She humorously mentioned, “I have signed a copy of my human best friend for you.”
Carpenter has also opened up about the discussions surrounding the lyrics of her songs, including sexual themes. While on tour, her performances of various sexual positions, particularly during the song “Junho,” attracted attention and complaints online. Despite this, she feels there’s much more to her music and expresses amusement at the reactions.
“When people complain, it’s always so funny to me,” she mentioned in a recent interview with Rolling Stone. “They say, ‘All she does is sing about this,’ but those are songs you revealed you love sex. You’re obsessed with it. I can’t control what people choose to comment on.”
She added that attending her shows also lets fans experience more introspective songs beyond the catchy hits. “It feels like a recurring theme, and I find humor in it all. I’m not mad about it, even if I feel pressure at times.”
Scrutiny on Female Artists
Moreover, Carpenter pointed out that women in the music industry often face heightened scrutiny for their choices. “I don’t want to be pessimistic, but I feel like I’ve never lived in an age where women are more dismantled and scrutinized in all abilities. I’m talking about all the female artists who create today,” she noted.
She has faced personal criticisms too. During her performances for the album “Short ‘n Sweet,” the singer encountered online backlash over her revealing outfits. “You’ll still get an occasional mother who has strong opinions about how you should dress,” Carpenter remarked. “And just say, ‘Don’t come to the show.’ That’s fine.”
Carpenter concluded by sharing her approach to comfort on stage, emphasizing that if dressing a certain way helps her perform, then so be it. “Fematility is something I’ve always embraced,” she reflected on her style choices, hinting at a blend of confidence and identity in her wardrobe.
