Kesha is pushing back against body shaming with a defiant message of self-acceptance and a series of striking images. The singer, currently touring Australia, addressed recent negative comments about her physique with a post on Instagram, declaring her pride in a body that has persevered through physical challenges and personal struggles.
“I didn’t think in 2024 people still body shamed but… i am so proud of my body,” Kesha wrote alongside two photos of herself in a black string bikini. She detailed the physical demands she’s placed on her body, referencing a torn ACL sustained on stage, which she finished performing despite the injury. She also alluded to emotional resilience, stating her body “has held my fucking broken heart together.”
The post, which resonated with fans and fellow artists, wasn’t simply a statement of self-love, but a challenge to those perpetuating negativity. “To those who think you’re shaming me, you’re actually making me feel very powerful,” she continued. “So, to you, i hope you one day feel whole enough to not tear other women down. In the mean time, hate me harder bitch:) 💪🏻.”
This isn’t the first time Kesha has publicly confronted issues of body image, and control. Her career has been marked by a highly publicized legal battle to extricate herself from a record contract with a producer she alleged abused her. That fight, and her subsequent return to music as an independent artist, has positioned her as a vocal advocate for survivors and a symbol of reclaiming agency.
The timing of this response coincides with Kesha’s “T!TS OUT Tour” in Australia, which began recently. A Facebook post from , from Ruoff Music Center highlighted the energy of a previous show, describing it as “a night of dancing.” She was photographed at Bondi Beach in Sydney on , reportedly enjoying a late-night swim, further fueling the attention surrounding her current activities.
Kesha’s stand against body shaming arrives amidst a broader conversation within the music industry. Lady Gaga recently addressed similar speculation about her body, referencing a lyric from Taylor Swift to shut down pregnancy rumors and prompting Swift to express her own desire for an end to body commentary. This suggests a growing frustration among female artists with the relentless scrutiny of their physical appearance.
The singer’s message taps into a cultural moment where discussions around body positivity and self-acceptance are increasingly prominent. However, the continued prevalence of body shaming, even in , underscores the ongoing need for artists like Kesha to use their platforms to challenge harmful standards and promote inclusivity. Her song “Hate Me Harder” already serves as an anthem against negativity, and this latest act of defiance reinforces that message.
The response from Kesha’s fans has been overwhelmingly supportive. Comments on her Instagram post praised her strength, confidence, and willingness to speak out. One follower wrote, “Be proud. You’re beautiful. The people hating are the ones hiding behind an anonymous photo and living in a basement while you’re out here thriving.” This outpouring of support highlights the impact of artists who openly embrace their bodies and challenge societal expectations.
Kesha’s current tour is a significant moment in her career, marking a period of creative freedom and artistic control. Her decision to address body shaming while actively promoting her music demonstrates a commitment to using her voice not only for entertainment but also for empowerment. The incident serves as a reminder of the pressures faced by female artists and the importance of fostering a more accepting and supportive environment within the music industry and beyond.
