Lizzo, a renowned American rapper, singer, songwriter, and actress, has a unique aspect to her performances that sets her apart from other musicians in the industry – her flute skill.
Contents
Lizzo’s Relationship with the Flute
Melissa Viviane Jefferson
Lizzo, born Melissa Viviane Jefferson, is a talented singer known for her empowering anthems and energetic performances. But it’s not just her powerful voice and catchy tunes that captivate audiences but also her proficiency in playing the flute.
Is Lizzo a Trained Flutist?
Lizzo’s interest in the flute began at an early age, and she started by playing by ear. To hone her skills, she attended band camp and even had aspirations to go to the Paris Conservatory to become a professional flutist.
While Lizzo didn’t pursue a traditional path in music, her classical training and genuine love for playing the flute have become integral to her identity as a musician.
Marching Band and College
During her time at the University of Houston, Lizzo was part of the marching band. As she progressed through the ranks, she earned the prestigious title of piccolo section leader. This experience shaped her musical journey and added another layer to her exceptional flute-playing skills.
Though Lizzo quit flute and did not finish college, her passion for the instrument remained undiminished. Today, she is known to incorporate the flute into her performances, showcasing her talent and confidence as a flutist. With her signature instrument, Sasha Flute, Lizzo often mesmerizes the audience by playing intricate solos during her concerts.
So, it’s worth noting that Lizzo’s relationship with the flute runs deep, having started from a young age and continued to play a significant role in her life as a musician. Through her dedication and genuine love for the instrument, she has introduced a new generation of music enthusiasts to the enchanting world of flute-playing.
The Crystal Flute
Claude Laurent’s Creation
The crystal flute that Lizzo plays is a rare and exquisite instrument crafted by French engineer and flutist Claude Laurent in the early 1800s. Laurent was renowned for his innovative flute designs, particularly those made from crystal, a material with exceptional acoustic properties. These flutes were favored by musicians and collectors alike and were skillfully crafted with delicate engravings and metal bands for structural support.
Historical Significance
This particular crystal flute has a strong connection to both the White House and the early history of the United States. It once belonged to James Madison, the country’s fourth President, who played woodwind instruments as a leisurely pursuit. The flute was part of the Library of Congress collection and is known to have been used by Madison during his time in Washington. Dolley Madison, James’ wife, was also an avid collector of fine musical instruments, further enhancing the flute’s historical ties to the Presidential family.
Lizzo’s Heirloom
The crystal flute gained newfound fame when Lizzo, a Grammy-winning artist, played it during a performance in Washington, D.C. Lizzo is known for her flute-playing skills, and her use of the precious 200-year-old instrument served to highlight its beauty and cultural importance. The Library of Congress permitted Lizzo to borrow and play the flute at her concert, making her the first public performer to use this remarkable artifact.
The crystal flute’s rich history and its association with both an influential founding father and a modern-day music icon exemplify the lasting impact and allure of such unique instruments.
For Lizzo and her fans, this heirloom symbolizes a special connection between history and music, a testament to the enduring power of artistry and craftsmanship.
Lizzo’s Flute Performances and Social Media
Viral Flute Videos
Lizzo, known for her exceptional talent as a singer, adds a unique flair to her performances with her incredible flute-playing skills. Her beloved silver Muramatsu flute, Sasha Flute, often takes center stage in various viral videos on social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter.
Lizzo’s ability to balance flute playing and dancing in these videos has generated a massive buzz, amassing millions of views and likes.
Concerts and Award Shows
At concerts, Lizzo delivers unforgettable, energetic performances, often featuring live flute playing. Notably, she stole the show at the Capitol One Arena in 2019, showcasing her multi-faceted talent with the flute, singing, and dancing. Lizzo’s BET Awards performance in 2019 also stands out, where she played Sasha Flute, her famous flute, while effortlessly transitioning between her chart-topping hits.
At the 2020 Grammy Awards, Lizzo received the spotlight once again, performing with her flute while being accompanied by a full orchestra. This night also saw Lizzo bag three awards, solidifying her reputation as a powerful force in the music industry.
Throughout her career, Lizzo has shared the stage with her flute and some of the biggest names in the industry, such as Rihanna and SZA. Together, they create compelling and memorable performances that leave a lasting impression on the audience.
Lizzo’s social media presence and unique performances featuring her flute-playing skills have undoubtedly impacted the world. Through her various platforms, she continually treats fans with clips showcasing her abilities, leaving them eagerly waiting for more.
Lizzo’s Achievements in Music
Hit Songs and Albums
Lizzo, a talented rapper and songwriter, has had a meteoric rise to fame with her unique blend of pop, hip-hop, and R&B. She gained widespread recognition with her 2019 album, Cuz I Love You, which contained popular tracks such as “Juice,” “Truth Hurts,” and “Good as Hell.” Notably, “Truth Hurts” earned Lizzo a Grammy award for Best Pop Solo Performance, while the album itself received critical acclaim for its empowering themes and bold musical style. This is in addition to the 2022 critically acclaimed album, Special.
In addition to her success with Cuz I Love You and Special, Lizzo’s earlier work includes the album Lizzobangers and the EP About Damn Time. She has consistently pushed boundaries and expanded her fan base throughout her career, leading to numerous nominations and awards.
Influential Collaborations
Lizzo’s achievements in music go beyond her solo work, as she has also been involved in various collaborations that have showcased her skill and versatility as an artist. One such collaboration took place with the New York Philharmonic Orchestra, demonstrating her ability to bridge genres, as seen with her stunning flute performances.
Aside from collaborating with different orchestras, Lizzo has worked with other musicians and groups throughout her career. Early on, she was a part of the hip-hop group Grrrl Prty, which released two EPs before disbanding in 2016.
Moreover, Lizzo’s appearances on television shows, such as David Letterman’s Late Show, have further exposed her talents to new audiences and solidified her status as a powerful and influential figure in the music industry.
Impact on Music and Culture
Lizzo’s Body Positivity and Empowerment
Lizzo is known for her powerful vocals and captivating performances, inspiring body positivity and empowerment among her audience. As a flutist, Lizzo’s talent extends beyond her vocals, playing the flute since she was in high school. Her musicianship and her message of self-love make her a unique and influential figure in the music industry.
Lizzo’s body positivity shows in her performances, as well as in her social media presence, where she frequently posts about self-love, acceptance, and confidence.
With this, Lizzo encourages individuals to embrace their bodies and appreciate their own self-worth, significantly impacting the culture around body image.
Lizzo Popularization of The Flute
Lizzo’s use of the flute has brought it to the forefront of popular music, demonstrating that the instrument is versatile and adaptable to various genres. By incorporating the flute in her songs and performances, Lizzo breaks the stereotype that the flute is limited to classical music. This unique aspect of her music leaves a mark on the industry and introduces this instrument to a broader audience.
One notable instance of Lizzo’s flute-playing was when she played a 200-year-old crystal flute from the Library of Congress’ flute vault in Washington, D.C. This event showcased Lizzo’s talent not only on the flute but also as a musician who can adapt and take on challenges.
Lizzo played an arrangement of the folk tune “The Carnival of Venice” and an excerpt from Francis Poulenc’s Flute Sonata. This performance at the Library of Congress displayed Lizzo’s impact on music and culture, highlighting the versatility the flute can offer modern audiences.
