Rebecca Black, the Californian singer who skyrocketed to fame with her controversial debut single “Friday,” has opened up about the pivotal role played by pop superstars Lady Gaga and Katy Perry in shaping her career and embracing her queer identity. At the tender age of 13, Black faced a storm of criticism, with many labeling her song as the “worst ever.” However, it was during those trying times that Gaga and Perry extended their unwavering support, and their impact has stayed with Black throughout her remarkable journey.
As Black ventured into writing lyrics explicitly about girls and eventually came out as queer in 2020, she encountered obstacles and was even advised to “switch pronouns” in her songs. Reflecting on her early struggles, she expressed her gratitude to Gaga and Perry for being the two people who truly uplifted her when the world seemed to turn against her. In a heartwarming moment on Twitter, Black responded to a comment about her cameo in Katy Perry’s music video for “Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.),” acknowledging the significance of their support.
“When Katy and Gaga become the only two people to genuinely lift u up as a kid, when the rest of the world is sh*tting on u, u have no choice but to serve c**t when u grow up. There I said it,” Black, now 25, candidly shared.
Black, who recently released her debut studio album, “Let Her Burn,” expressed her gratitude beyond the public eye, emphasizing the profound impact of the kindness she received from Perry and Gaga. Katy Perry, in particular, invested considerable time talking to Black, offering encouragement, and inviting her on stage and into the music video. Meanwhile, Gaga’s crew went a step further by providing Black and her family with tickets to the Monster Ball tour in their hometown. Such acts of compassion and genuine care served as a beacon of hope during Black’s formative years, when she often felt targeted.
Rebecca Black’s journey exemplifies the resilience and strength that can emerge from adversity. Despite the initial backlash she faced, her story reminds us of the transformative power of supportive figures like Lady Gaga and Katy Perry, who not only inspired her as an artist but also provided solace during her personal struggles. Their acts of kindness have left an indelible mark on Black’s life, reinforcing the importance of compassion and empathy in uplifting others, especially those navigating the complexities of their own identities.
By sharing her story, Rebecca Black continues to inspire countless individuals, fostering an environment of acceptance, and reinforcing the significance of allyship within the LGBTQ+ community. Through her music and unwavering spirit, she has emerged as a voice of resilience, reminding us all to embrace our true selves and find strength in the face of adversity.