"I have been degraded by the media since the beginning of my career," the 64-year-old singer said.
When Madonna delivered a performance at the 2023 Grammy Awards, some people criticized her appearance. The pop legend introduced Kim Petras, the first transgender woman to perform at the ceremony, before Sam Smith and Petras performed their famous song Unholy.
On social media, however, some people focused on Madonna's face and expressed how "confused" they were by how she looked, TODAY reports. The 64-year-old singer said in the lengthy caption in an Instagram post that the "ageism and misogyny" in our society is to blame for the criticism of her appearance.
Petras' performance, which Madonna referred to as "a history-making moment," was "more important to Madonna. She had earlier intended to deliver the album of the year award, but changed her mind and instead introduced Petras. In the introduction to Smith and Petras' performance, Madonna commended the "rebels" and "troublemakers" for blazing a new trail, adding their "fearlessness does not go unnoticed."
Madonna said, "Here’s what I’ve learned after four decades in music: If they call you shocking, scandalous, troublesome, problematic, provocative, or dangerous, you are definitely onto something." In the post, she pointed out people's inability to focus on what she said, "Instead of focusing on what I said in my speech which was about giving thanks for the fearlessness of artists like Sam and Kim- Many people chose to only talk about Close-up photos of me Taken with a long lens camera By a press photographer that Would distort anyone’s face!!"
"Once again I am caught in the glare of ageism and misogyny That permeates the world we live in," she continued. She further added, "A world that refuses to celebrate women past the age of 45 And feels the need to punish her If she continues to be strong-willed, hard-working and adventurous."
The singer continued by stating that she has "never apologized" for her artistic decisions, as well as the way she has dressed and looked throughout her career, and she's "not going to start" now. "I have been degraded by the media since the beginning of my career but I understand that this is all a test and I am happy to do the trailblazing so that all the women behind me can have an easier time in the years to come," Madonna said.
She even made a lyrical reference to Beyoncé, who at the ceremony on February 5 received three trophies for her album Renaissance, writing, "You won't break my soul." She wrote, "I look forward to many more years of subversive behavior -pushing boundaries - Standing up to the patriarchy - and Most of all enjoying my life," Madonna said, before quoting Beyoncé once again. "Bow down b------!"
References:
https://www.today.com/popculture/madonna-responds-criticism-grammys-appearance-rcna69665
https://www.instagram.com/p/CoYOdzSA5mj/
Cover Image Source: Getty Images | Frazer Harrison
